By Kevin Begos

Jumping In

By Kevin Begos

You’ve found a good cause, but how do you get people to donate money? Austin Gaines, 22, set up a foundation for breast cancer research and began raising money for it when he was just 12 years old. He says he has learned several lessons during a decade of raising funds.

“The best thing for people who want to get involved at a local level is to find an institution or foundation they can base a relationship around,” says Gaines, whose foundation donates to the cancer center at the University of Miami.

Building—and maintaining—support is crucial, he adds. “Find a couple of key supporters and keep up your relationship with them. Have those people help you network.”

Finally, as you learn the ropes, consider doing a fundraiser every year. You can partner with different local businesses, and the events can become a regular part of life for your growing network of supporters—and for you.