Losing someone you love is never easy. On top of the pain, there’s a lot to take care of, funeral costs, family needs, and making sure their memory lives on.
That’s where a memorial fundraiser can really help. It’s a way to honor your loved one’s life while also giving your friends and family a place to show support.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. With the right tools, raising money can feel a little less overwhelming. You can tell their story, invite others to share memories, and make a real difference for the people left behind.
Harness is here to help. Whether you’re supporting a nonprofit cause or just trying to ease the financial stress of a funeral, our platform is designed to make it easier. From setting up a personalized donation page to sending thank-you texts, we’ve helped hundreds of people create fundraisers that truly matter.
Why start a memorial fundraiser?
When someone passes, there’s often a lot to manage, emotionally and financially. A memorial fundraiser gives people a way to come together, support one another, and celebrate a life that mattered.
It’s not just about money. It’s about connection. Friends and family want to help, but sometimes they don’t know how. A fundraiser gives them a place to show love in a way that’s real and helpful. Whether it’s covering funeral costs or supporting a cause your loved one cared about, you’re inviting others to join you in honoring their memory.
It also takes some pressure off your shoulders. During a time that’s already heavy, it’s one less thing to worry about. And when done well, it becomes something beautiful, something that shows just how much one life can mean to so many people.
Ways to raise money to cover funeral and memorial expenses
Crowdfunding memorial fundraising campaigns
Crowdfunding is one of the easiest ways to raise money during a tough time. You create a page, share your story, and invite people to help. It's fast, simple, and gives friends and family a chance to show support right away.
The most powerful part? Sharing your loved one’s story. People want to help when they feel connected. Talk about who they were, what made them special, and why this fundraiser matters. Even if someone didn’t know them, they can still be moved by your words.
When you make it easy to give, more people will. Add photos, set a clear goal, and share updates as you go. Don’t be afraid to ask others to spread the word, it makes a huge difference.
Hosting memorial events to raise funds
Sometimes the best way to raise money, and spirits, is to gather people in person. Hosting a memorial event gives everyone a chance to remember, reflect, and help out at the same time.
This could be something simple like a dinner, a candlelight walk, or even a concert. Think about what your loved one enjoyed, and build the event around that. If they loved music, maybe invite a few local performers. If they loved being outdoors, try a picnic or walkathon.
These events aren’t just fundraisers. They’re moments of healing. People get to tell stories, laugh, cry, and be part of something that feels meaningful. And when folks are moved, they’re often more willing to give, whether it’s by buying a ticket, donating at the event, or telling others to pitch in.
Sell memorial-themed items or experiences
Selling items that remind people of your loved one is a powerful way to raise funds and keep their memory alive. It also gives friends and family something they can hold onto, a little piece of remembrance that feels personal.
You could create t-shirts with their favorite quote, bracelets with their name, or candles that represent something they loved. If they were known for their cooking, put together a simple recipe book with their favorite meals. Even small things, like photo magnets or custom bookmarks, can make a big impact.
People want to give, but they also appreciate something meaningful in return. These items do both: they raise money and help others feel connected to the person you're honoring.
Unique and creative memorial fundraising ideas
Not every fundraiser needs to look the same. Sometimes the most meaningful ideas come from thinking a little differently, doing something personal, creative, or unexpected. Here are a few ways to raise money while creating moments people will remember.
Partner with a local business or venue
Your local coffee shop, restaurant, or bookstore might be more open to helping than you think. A “give-back night” where a portion of sales goes toward your memorial fund is easy to set up and brings people together. It’s also a great way to involve the wider community, even folks who didn’t know your loved one can show up and support.
Create a permanent tribute: engraved bricks, trees, or benches
A lasting memorial, like a brick walkway, a planted tree, or a bench at a local park, can be both symbolic and impactful. People can donate to have a name or message engraved, and those small donations add up. It’s a beautiful way to raise money and create a space that honors your loved one for years to come.
Digital memorial spaces
Not everyone can attend an in-person event. A memorial website or a dedicated social media page gives friends and family, no matter where they are, a way to stay connected, donate, and share memories. You can post photos, tell stories, share fundraiser updates, and even link to donation forms. It becomes a living tribute that keeps growing with love and support.
How to start a memorial fundraiser with confidence
Getting started might feel like a lot, especially when you're grieving. But the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. With a little structure and support, setting up your memorial fundraiser can be simple and meaningful.
Choose your fundraising platform
The first step is picking the right place to host your fundraiser. Look for a platform that’s easy to use and helps you stay organized. It should offer tools like donation forms, thank-you messages, and maybe even texting features to keep people updated.
Harness is a great option if you want something built for real support, not just software. It’s designed for both nonprofits and families, with features that help you stay in control and focus on what really matters.
Tell your loved one’s story authentically
This part matters more than you might think. People give because they care, and they care because they connect. Tell your loved one’s story honestly. Share what made them special, why you’re raising funds, and how the money will help.
Photos help. A favorite quote helps. Even small details, like their laugh or something they always said, can move someone to give.
Set fundraising goals and timeline
Be clear about what the money is for. Is it for funeral costs? Family support? A memorial scholarship or bench? Break it down and be transparent. That kind of clarity builds trust.
Also, give your fundraiser a timeline. Even if it's flexible, having a goal date gives people a little nudge to act sooner rather than later.
Maximize donations and engagement
Once your fundraiser is live, it’s time to keep people involved and inspired to give. The more personal and connected it feels, the more likely folks are to stay engaged, and share it with others.
Invite friends and family members to participate
You don’t have to do this alone. Ask friends and family to help you spread the word. They can share the fundraiser on social media, tell their own stories about your loved one, or even create their own mini-fundraising pages linked to yours. This is called peer-to-peer fundraising, and it works because it multiplies your reach fast.
Even a small group of helpers can bring in a whole new circle of supporters you might not reach on your own.
Follow up and show gratitude
Saying “thank you” goes a long way. After someone donates, follow up, send a message, post an update, or give them a quick call if you can. It doesn't have to be fancy. Just sincere.
Keep people in the loop with progress updates or share small moments like a memory someone posted, a photo from an event, or how close you are to your goal. When people feel like part of something real, they stick around.
Bring people together
A memorial fundraiser is more than a way to raise money. It’s a chance to tell a story, bring people together, and carry your loved one’s memory forward in a meaningful way. Whether you’re helping with funeral costs or building something lasting, every donation becomes part of that legacy.
You don’t need to be an expert to do this well. You just need the right support, and a little heart.
Harness is here to help you build a fundraiser that feels personal, simple, and powerful. From tools that save you time to a team that understands what you’re going through, we’ve got your back every step of the way.
