Running your first marathon is no small feat. Throw fundraising into the mix, and it’s a double-whammy of challenge and reward. But here’s the good news: even if you’ve never run a mile (or asked anyone for a penny), you can still hit your fundraising goals and enjoy the process every step of the way, from your first training run to that triumphant medal selfie.
At realbuzz, we’ve helped thousands of runners reach the finish line, both on race day and throughout their fundraising journey. Whether your cause is close to your heart or you just fancied a reason to get off the sofa and into some trainers, this guide is for you.
Feeling flustered or fired up? Either way, we’ve got your back. Below, we’re sharing expert-backed advice for first-time charity runners on how to fundraise for a marathon.
Find Your “Why” Before You Fundraise
Before you even think about shaking a collection bucket, get crystal clear on why you're running.
- Are you raising money in memory of a loved one?
- Are you supporting a cause that helped you or someone you know?
- Or are you simply looking to challenge yourself and do some good at the same time?
Your personal connection to the cause is your superpower. Make it part of your story, on your fundraising page, in your social posts, and in everyday conversations. People don’t just donate to charities; they donate to people. So tell your story in a way that connects.
Ready to run for a reason? Find the perfect charity to support and make every mile count!
Set Up a Fundraising Page Like a Pro
Your fundraising page is your virtual HQ. Treat it like the beating heart of your campaign.
- Choose a platform your charity supports (like GoFundMe, JustGiving, or Enthuse).
- Add a compelling title and a heartfelt description of why you’re running - this is your opportunity to share your story and your emotional connection to the cause.
- Upload a friendly photo (bonus points for a training selfie or mid-run action shot).
- Set a realistic target and break it down - £1,000 feels far less intimidating when you explain that just 20 nearest and dearest donating £50 each will get you there.
Insider Tip: Fundraising pages that include regular updates raise significantly more. So post your sweaty post-run pics and other milestone wins. Show the journey, as people love a narrative.
Build Early Buzz and Momentum
The hardest pound to raise is the first one. So, aim to get a few early donations under your belt before your official launch. Why? Social proof. When your page shows activity, it encourages others to donate too. It’s basic psychology - nobody wants to be first on the dance floor.
- Ask close friends or family to donate early (or you can even add the first donation yourself!)
- Use a soft launch via WhatsApp or DMs before posting on social media.
- Get your first £50 in the pot, then shout about it!
JustGiving reports that fundraisers who get their first donation early raise significantly more overall. So don’t be shy, start sooner than you think you should.
Let Your Training Do the Talking
One of the best ways to keep up momentum? Make fundraising part of your training content.
- Share your runs on Strava or a training app like Runna (official training partner for realbuzz runners!) and link them to your fundraising page.
- Create mini-challenges like “Donate £5 and choose my next running playlist.”
- Share micro-milestones like “Run 100km in a month and ask for per-kilometre pledges.”
- Post updates on how you’re feeling - not only physically but mentally as well.
This works well on social media, Instagram, TikTok, and even LinkedIn can become powerful platforms when you mix authenticity, humour, and purpose. Think of your fundraising journey like a TV series; each episode should have a cliffhanger and something worth tuning into.
Want help turning your training into compelling content? Check out our guide on social media fundraising; it’s full of ideas to help you reflect, inspire, and keep your supporters engaged!
Learn Smart Ways to Ask for Support
We get it, asking for donations can feel awkward. But if you’ve set a clear goal and shared your personal reason, you’ve earned the right to ask. The trick? Be smart about it.
Targeted asks work better than vague ones. Instead of “Can anyone donate?” try:
- “Hey [Name], I know you’re a fellow runner, I would absolutely love your support”
- “I’m aiming to raise £100 this week, can you help me get 10% of the way?”
Try using different formats; some people respond better to DMs, others to video, and some love a good email. Mix it up and test what works. And mention it offline too. Just by talking about your run in casual conversations, at work, in the gym, or when out with friends, you’d be surprised how often people will ask to donate if they know you’re doing it.
Tap Into Work and Community Networks
A great way to level up your fundraising is to look beyond your immediate circle and tap into your work and community networks; every connection can make a difference.
At work:
- Check if your company offers matched giving or sponsorship schemes.
- Ask to feature your run in the company newsletter or intranet.
- Host a bake sale, raffle, or quiz at the office.
In your community:
- Chat to local cafes, gyms, or yoga studios about putting up a poster or QR code.
- Organise a community walk or warm-up event with a donation entry.
- Hit up local Facebook groups and notice boards, especially if your cause is local.
Want even more creative ideas on how to fundraise for a marathon? Explore our 100+ fundraising ideas that actually work and get people donating to your cause.
Keep the Fundraising Thanks Flowing
Gratitude isn’t just good manners; it’s one of the most powerful tools in your fundraising toolkit. When it comes to how to fundraise for a marathon, a little thanks can go a long way:
- Thank donors individually, and do it promptly.
- Post thank-you shoutouts online and tag supporters (with permission, of course).
- Mention specific impact: “Thanks to your £10, the charity can fund a life-saving helpline call, or provide a warm meal and safe shelter for someone in need.”
People who feel appreciated are more likely to give again, or to tell their friends to give too.
Realbuzz Is Here Every Step of the Way
Training for a marathon is tough. Fundraising for one can feel even tougher. But with the right mindset, tools, and a little guidance, you’ve got this. At realbuzz, we believe in making your miles mean more. From expert training plans to charity runner support, we’re here to help.
And just because the marathon ends at 26.2 miles, your fundraising doesn’t have to. Post-race is actually a prime time to boost donations as you’ve achieved your challenge: share your finish line photos, show off that hard-earned medal, and talk about what the experience meant to you.
Plenty of runners raise just as much after the race as they do before. So ride that post-race euphoria, it’s seriously motivating, and your cause deserves to stay in the spotlight!
Start your marathon fundraising journey →
