Five Ways to Give: A How-To Guide
Find the Best Way to Give Your Support
Whether you want to donate, start a fundraiser, or spread the word, there are many ways you can make a difference for Indian Residential School (IRS) Survivors. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best option for you!
1. Make a One-Time Donation
Flexible Giving: Make a one-time donation in any amount that suits your financial situation. In the last few years, some who have received a day off work on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation have chosen to make a donation equivalent to one day's pay on September 30. For those who can afford to may choose to consider this as a guideline for the appropriate amount for your one-time donation.
Visit irsss.ca/donate and select the one-time donation option on the donation form.
Select your donation amount and provide payment details.
You may also dedicate your donation to honour or remember someone special.
2. Become a Monthly Donor
Monthly Donations: Help us meet the growing needs of IRS Survivors by providing ongoing support to IRSSS. These donations are the most stable form of funding IRSSS receives, allowing our teams to plan out their work knowing that the funding is there to support us. This is why we appreciate your monthly donations of any amount.
Visit irsss.ca/donate and choose the recurring donation option on the donation form.
Select your monthly donation amount and provide payment details.
As a monthly donor, you’ll receive updates on how your contributions are making a difference and gain access to special content exclusive to our monthly eNewsletter.
3. Start a Fundraiser for IRSSS
Fill out the Fundraising Application Form: Once reviewed, IRSSS staff will contact you with the result of your fundraiser request. While you can always fundraise and donate to IRSSS without completing the form, the application allows IRSSS to publicly acknowledge and assist in promoting your fundraiser. Visit irsss.ca/fundraiser-info to complete our brief application form.
Plan Your Event: Decide on the type of fundraising event that suits your community and resources. Popular options include charity runs, bake sales, auctions, and benefit dinners. Consult with your community or organization for support and to determine the best way for you to organize your fundraiser.
4. Start a Facebook or Instagram Fundraiser for IRSSS
Facebook and Instagram fundraisers are an easy way to generate support for the IRSSS within your community. The proceeds are sent directly to the IRSSS.
Log into Facebook and navigate to the Fundraisers tab.
Click Raise Money and search for IRSSS on Facebook: Indian Residential School Survivors Society - British Columbia.
Set your goal, end date, and customize your fundraiser's title, description, and cover photo.
Share and promote your fundraiser to your friends and family to raise money for IRSSS.
Log into Instagram and go to your profile.
Tap the plus icon then select Post or Story.
Include an image or video to attach to your fundraiser. If you are creating a post, select Add Fundraiser. If posting to stories, tap the sticker icon.
Search for IRSSS on Instagram: @irsssbc.
Set a goal and customize your fundraiser message.
Promote your fundraiser to others in your network by posting to your feed or story.
Create a Birthday Fundraiser: Facebook and Instagram both offer an option to create a Fundraiser for your birthday. Instead of receiving gifts, you can ask your friends and family to donate to IRSSS in celebration of your special day.
5. Spread the Word
Tell Others About IRSSS: Not all gifts need to be financial – those unable to donate themselves can still give their support by sharing our mission with their communities.
Share our mission and impact on your social media and link your posts to our website: irsss.ca/donate
Consider using the following text to describe IRSSS:
“The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) is a registered charity and NGO that provides essential services to Residential School Survivors and families experiencing intergenerational trauma.”
Tag IRSSS in relevant posts and encourage your followers to get involved or learn more.
Talk about IRSSS with your friends and family. Let them know about your desire to support IRS Survivors.
YOUR IMPACT
Whether you choose to donate, start a fundraiser, or spread the word, your support helps IRSSS continue its vital work of supporting Survivors and their families through each stage of the healing journey. Every contribution makes a difference, and together, we can create lasting change. Thank you for your generous support for IRSSS!