As World Refugee Day approaches on 20th June, we want to take a moment to highlight the urgency of the global refugee crisis.
As of mid-2023, the UNHCR estimated that the total number of forcibly displaced people reached a staggering 110 million. As the UN expects that 20% more people will need support from displacement this year than last year, humanitarian organisations need support now more than ever.
However, our support for refugees should not just centre on ONE day of the year. Showing solidarity for refugees is an ongoing commitment that involves continuous actions based on advocacy, empathy and inclusivity. This is why this year we are engaging our network to show solidarity and raise awareness in the months leading up to World Refugee Day.
Ahead of World Refugee Day, we are launching an ambitious fundraising campaign, and we want you to be a part of it!
This is your opportunity to show solidarity from home. Whether you run a fundraiser individually, with friends or with colleagues*, through small actions of engaging your community, you can have a HUGE impact.
*Your company could very likely match the funds you and your colleagues raise. Find out if you work for a match-funding company here.
How you can create BIG impact
Over the next 8 weeks, we are looking for 25 people to run independent fundraisers in their local areas.
We understand that not everyone is in a position to volunteer on the ground or donate directly, but they still want to help support humanitarian efforts. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to show solidarity with refugees and sustain our support to charities who are going above and beyond for refugee populations every single day.
For companies interested in joining the cause, organising a fundraiser among colleagues can be a powerful way to foster team spirit, all while making a tangible difference. Plus, if you are a match-funding company, you can DOUBLE the impact of your employees’ fundraisers.
Our goal is twofold:
1. Spread Awareness
By organising independent fundraisers in your local community, you will raise awareness about Indigo Volunteers’ critical work in providing responsible aid to refugees. Each fundraiser serves as an opportunity for you to spark conversations, educate others about the refugee crisis, and inspire meaningful change.
2. Raise Funds
The funds raised will enable us to continue our vital work: we conduct fee-free volunteer matching to areas where they are needed most, as well as offering training and mental health support to ensure their support goes as far as possible. Whether it’s providing essential aid in refugee camps, providing medical assistance or advocating for policy change, our volunteers make an immeasurable difference in improving the lives of displaced individuals and communities.
At Indigo, we believe that small actions can have a BIG impact: for every £1 donated, we create £23 worth of meaningful impact. This means that, for every £1 donated, Indigo is able to give £23 worth of:
Access to clothing, blankets and shelter
Safe spaces where children can be children
Support for pregnant and new mothers
Hot, nutritious meals
Medical support to people on the move
Assistance in navigating asylum procedures
Classes to empower communities and develop skills
“But I’ve never fundraised before - how do I start?”
Fundraising does not need to be a daunting task - just ask Chloe and Cem, our volunteers who ran their first ever fundraising event in Edinburgh in April.
"Although neither of us had ever planned a fundraising event before, we realised that it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a bit of creativity , teamwork, and enthusiasm , anyone can make a difference."
However Indigo is here to help, and we have developed a comprehensive Fundraising Toolkit to support you in your fundraising efforts. This resource is designed to assist you at every stage of your planning process, from setting goals and creating promotional materials to involving your community
The toolkit includes:
Step-by-step guidance on planning and executing successful fundraisers
Tips for effective communication and outreach
Sample fundraising ideas and event suggestions
Downloadable templates and resources
So whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or planning an event for the first time, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're an individual, a group of friends, or a corporate team, there's an opportunity for everyone to get involved and contribute to this vital cause.
Together, we can make a meaningful impact and empower positive change in the lives of refugees and displaced persons around the world.
Are you ready to fundraise for World Refugee Day?
Although World Refugee Day falls on 20th June, we encourage you to hold your fundraising event at any time from now. The Indigo Team can provide additional support as you plan your fundraiser, from a brainstorming session to implementation!
With more than 20k followers across our social media, we can help promote our campaign on our page and through our newsletter.
We would love to stay updated on your fundraising journey, and provide you with additional support you may need, either through email or our social media!
Get in touch to start creating a BIG impact today: