A New Twist on the Giving Tree

Editor’s Note: This post has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Everyone is familiar with the concept of the Giving Tree – place need adorned ornaments on a holiday tree, ask donors to select an ornament, shop and return with the gift.  With CheqrPay, you can put a modern spin on this tradition.  Our take integrates quick and easy mobile giving, just put up your display to accept donations.  Learn just how easy it is, simply follow these steps:

Get a Tree, Lights and Ornaments

No need to break the bank. Scour local second hand shops or Craig’s List posts for a tree and light strings.  Find pre-cut star shaped or circular paper at local craft stores for the ornaments. Amazon sells paper gift tags and ornament cutouts that would be great for this purpose.

Create a Sign Explaining Your Campaign

Using a poster board, whiteboard or some other display, design a sign explaining your giving tree campaign.  Make sure to include information about your organization and how the money will be used.  Download a copy of your customized QR code and include it on the poster along with instructions for giving.  Be sure to use words like “SCAN TO DONATE” or “SCAN NOW TO GIVE” to make your call to action clear.

Decorate the Tree

Place ornaments in a basket or on a table along with markers.  Instruct people to scan the code to make a donation.  Once they have donated, they can write their name on an ornament and hang it on the tree.

Your QR code can be on the poster or you can print labels with the code to apply to each ornament.

Find a Great Place for Your Display

You can place your tree in your office lobby or the lobby of your office building, but why not think outside of the box? Contact local businesses, your community mall or holiday festival organizers to ask if your tree can be placed inside.  Why not make multiple trees and place them around town?  Be sure to have your tree up for any holiday gatherings hosted by your organization.  Don’t be too hasty about taking down your display.  Remember that 11% of all donations come in the last three days of the year.

No need to staff your display with volunteers.  Folks will be able to scan and give in just a few clicks with our Google Pay and Apple Pay enabled giving platform.  We wish you luck in your holiday fundraising efforts!