Money Magnet Idea No. 10: Support Grass-Roots Fund Raising

Livestrong, a cancer-fighting charity started by the champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, last year decided to set aside $50,000 to improve bicycle races, walkathons, auctions, house parties, and other fund-raising events organized by volunteers nationwide.

In addition, two of the charity’s staff members have provided advice on marketing and other tactics to the volunteers and sometimes attend local events to provide more information and assistance. As a result, grass-roots events last year produced $3.6-million, up from $1.7-million in 2009.

This year Livestrong officials want to provide even more support for local events. They plan to offer people organizing new events for Livestrong an opportunity to call seasoned volunteers from successful events to get ideas and advice.