Fundraising Bricks

Howard Lake | 11 June 2012

Engraved bricks are a wonderful idea with regards to any charitable fundraising campaign. The donor has something tangible for their contribution, something that they can see for many years to come and something, which can instill an immense sense of pride within that individual.

Engraved bricks are popular on the basis that any charity can benefit from such an idea, without having to use much needed monies for bespoke engraved products. You will, however, most probably find that engraved bricks work best for charitable fundraising campaigns for the benefit of the surrounding neighborhoods. There are many ways in which engraved bricks can work in this regard, whether for a new school building, sporting venue or hospital, whether for a walkway or a wall, or whether simply for a mural or a hall of fame.

Selling engraved bricks is fun, and appeals to the vast majority of individuals, young or old. In addition to being quite a unique idea, it is easy to sell, not only to the donors but also to the individuals who will be campaigning on behalf of the charity. Engraved bricks are quite possibly one of the only means of raising charitable funds that is unlikely to receive much, if anything, in the way of resistance. It is also simple to explain and for individuals to comprehend the concept, no matter their age or level of education.

Engraved Bricks: The Everlasting Memory

A further thought is to allow all those who donated the chance to lay their individual bricks themselves. Although this will be a more time consuming process, it may facilitate a higher level of donations on the basis that you are creating a stronger bond with all those who have taken part. Whether or not you choose to go down this route, it is essential that you send each donor a note or certificate of thanks. It is something that is somewhat overlooked but, regardless of the level of your resources, it is something that really needs to be done. Every individual, no matter whether we are talking about engraved bricks for charitable fundraising purposes or otherwise, likes to feel valued. In saying thank you, not only are you making that specific individual feel valued, but they will most likely be more susceptible to making further donations in the future. 

There may also be the option to “cross sell”, as donors may wish to purchase another brick for themselves personally to keep as a memento of the whole experience.

In addition, although you may think otherwise, engraved bricks are not a one off exercise and indeed a one off opportunity. It is relatively easy to consider extending that wall or that walkway the following year, or to start off with a whole new structure.

For information when considering engraved bricks as your method of raising charitable donations you will have to liaise with your local builder and architects as to how many bricks you will need to “sell” to make your charitable venture a success.

Engraved bricks are a simple but brilliant idea for any charitable fundraising campaign, and you can take great pleasure from creating an everlasting memory with individuals’ donations.

About Howard Lake
Howard Lake is consultant editor of UK Fundraising. He founded the site in 1994 and successfully sold it in 2022. As director of Giving X Ltd he is exploring growing giving on a massive scale. He is the founder of Fundraising Camp and co-founder of GoodJobs.