Going door-to-door to raise money can be intimidating and feel awkward. A passion for the cause you are fundraising for can help give you confidence to ask strangers for donations. Preparation can also help combat any uncomfortable feelings you have. Researching the neighborhoods, rehearsing and reminding yourself why you support the cause can help you to craft an effective door-to-door pitch.

Identify Yourself

People can be suspicious of people coming to their door soliciting donations. Wearing an ID badge relaying what charity you are working for can help dispel any concerns. Having a phone number of the organization readily available for those who ask helps to foster trust.

Canvas the Area

Look at demographic data, such as number of homeowners, income levels and property values, when selecting neighborhoods to visit. Carefully selecting streets helps to maximize the likelihood of success by targeting more affluent residents. Use the data you uncover to develop a schedule. For example, if you are targeting a neighborhood of professionals choose non-business hours, such as early evenings and weekends, to go door to door.

Make Your Pitch

Craft you pitch as an "elevator pitch," which are typically very concise and end with a call to action, which in this case is a donation. Keep the pitch natural so it doesn't sound scripted, even if it has been rehearsed. Infuse the story behind what you are fundraising for into your pitch, to appeal to the humanity in the person you are soliciting. Practice your pitch before hitting the streets to create a comfort level with it.

Maintain Safety

When knocking on people's doors, maintaining safety is critical. Consider going out in pairs since those soliciting donations are likely to be carrying cash. Let friends or colleagues know beforehand which neighborhoods you are soliciting before going door to door. Refrain from entering people's homes and conduct your pitches from doorsteps instead.