Case study: Helping a small charity become mighty

Charity: Youth PWR

Campaign length: 8 months

Number of donations: >12,000

Clear funds raised for charity: >£250,000

ROI: 2:1

At Gather Campaigns, we believe in the power of face-to-face (F2F) fundraising to drive real change. Our recent collaboration with Youth PWR, a small and emerging charity dedicated to tackling youth violence and empowering young people, is a shining example of how innovative fundraising can transform an organisation’s impact.

A Mission with Purpose

Founded in 2019 by Adeola ('Dee') Onigbanjo, Youth PWR was born from personal tragedy and a desire to help young people navigate safer pathways in life. The charity works to inspire, educate, and equip underprivileged youth with the confidence and skills needed to avoid violence and thrive in society. However, as a small and recently established organisation, funding posed a significant challenge. That’s where we stepped in.

A Unique Approach to Fundraising

Unlike most F2F campaigns that focus on securing regular givers, the Youth PWR campaign concentrated solely on one-off donations. This strategic decision allowed the charity to engage supporters, spread awareness, and generate much-needed funds without requiring a long-term financial commitment from donors. The campaign was conducted in high-footfall private locations across London and the Home Counties, including major transport hubs and retail sites.

The campaign launched in December 2023 with a three-week test period and an initial investment of just £500.

Long-Term Impact

Over the full eight-month campaign, Youth PWR received 12,042 donations, with an average pre-Gift Aid donation of £34.46. The final clear funds raised for the charity amounted to £258,618, with an ROI of 2:1 and further potential for growth through a new telemarketing campaign.

Beyond the financial success, the campaign had a profound impact on community engagement. Approximately 375,000 people were reached, with 186,000 meaningful conversations taking place. Four individuals who had interacted with fundraisers were so inspired by the charity’s mission that they became volunteers.

A Lasting Legacy

The funds raised have already enabled Youth PWR to launch its biggest programme to date — a media training boot camp for young people, which has helped some participants secure full-time jobs in creative industries. Looking ahead, the charity is set to expand its anti-knife crime campaign in 2025, reaching hundreds of young people across schools and colleges, many from deprived socioeconomic backgrounds.

By embracing a bold, innovative F2F strategy, Youth PWR has not only raised crucial funds but also built a foundation for future sustainability and impact. This campaign is a testament to how strategic fundraising can unlock opportunities for small charities, empowering them to create real change in the communities they serve.

What Youth PWR said

"The campaign totally exceeded our expectations, allowing us to achieve far more than we ever anticipated. It catapulted our initiatives and capacity to deliver on our mission, enhancing our programmes and models to support more young people. One programme even went on to win an award. The ripple effect was immense - not only in terms of what we delivered but also in raising awareness, gaining champions for our work, and attracting more volunteers. We've employed more staff, increased our capacity, and become a stronger, more sustainable organisation."

Dee Onigbanjo, founder, Youth PWR