What Are the Different Types of Face-to-Face Fundraising?

Face-to-face fundraising shows up in all kinds of settings. For nonprofits that want to build stronger connections with donors, choosing the right format at the right moment can really shape how those conversations go.

Sometimes it starts at someone’s door. Other times it’s a short chat outside a busy grocery store or a longer conversation at a festival or holiday event. The environments are different, but the intention is steady: talk to people in a genuine way and meet them where they are.

Why Face-to-Face Still Works

Before looking at the different formats, it helps to remember what ties them together: real human connection. In-person fundraising builds trust in a way digital channels rarely can. When someone is greeted by a person who genuinely cares about the cause, the interaction feels personal.

At Globalfaces, we’ve seen this play out across thousands of campaigns. When a donor meets someone who can speak to the cause, answer questions, and listen, right there in the moment, they’re far more likely to give. And far more likely to stay.

For a deeper dive into face-to-face impact, check out Why Door-to-Door Fundraising Still Works.

Door-to-Door Fundraising

When people picture face-to-face fundraising, door-to-door is often the first thing that comes to mind. It has a long-standing history in the sector and remains one of the most effective ways to build relationships with committed, long-term supporters.

This approach works because it’s proactive. As a push channel, door-to-door fundraising allows organizations to meet potential donors exactly where they are, rather than waiting for them to engage on their own terms. It consistently delivers high-quality donors and does so at a reliable, scalable volume.

Trained fundraisers visit local neighbourhoods, engaging people at their doorsteps in real conversations. It’s especially powerful when the goal is monthly giving or when the conversation centres on values. A front door provides a kind of focus that’s hard to find elsewhere. People are in a familiar space, there’s less competing noise, and they’re often more at ease asking questions or opening up about what matters to them.

Strong conversations don’t happen by chance. They rely on thoughtful planning, clear messaging, and fundraisers who know how to listen well.

Private Site Fundraising

Private site fundraising takes place outside of malls, big box stores, and local retail locations. These spaces offer steady foot traffic and protection from the weather, making them a reliable option for campaigns that run throughout the year.

This format works as a pull channel, where fundraisers attract and intercept potential donors in public settings. It often suits causes with broad appeal and is ideal when you want a consistent presence in the same community. Because fundraisers stay in one place, they can slow down, have longer conversations, and build stronger connections with people who stop to engage.

Professionalism matters. Unlike door-to-door fundraising, which has no fixed location, private site campaigns establish the nonprofit’s presence through branded booths or kiosks. A polished setup signals credibility. Clear signage, clean materials, and a well-presented team reflect positively on both the organization and the venue. When everything is aligned, private site fundraising delivers visibility, trust, and strong results.

Public Site or Street Fundraising

Street fundraising brings the energy. These teams work on busy sidewalks, near campuses, in downtown areas, and outside major events. The aim is simple: spark quick, meaningful conversations with people on the move.

It’s a strong option for campaigns that need broad reach. If you want to raise awareness, encourage one-time gifts, or build a contact list, street teams can create many touchpoints in a short window of time.

There are challenges as well. This format relies on steady foot traffic and decent weather, and everything moves quickly. Fundraisers have to be confident, approachable, and able to make a connection within a few seconds. When that happens, street fundraising becomes an effective piece of a larger outreach strategy.

Events & Experiential Fundraising

Some of the most genuine connections happen at events. Whether it’s a community run, a local festival, or a mission-focused pop-up, these settings give you the chance to meet people who are already open to learning more, getting involved, or making a gift.

This format is about more than acquiring new donors. It creates room for deeper conversations. You’re meeting people in a place that already fits with your cause, often surrounded by friends or family. That kind of environment makes it easier to share stories and build trust.

Since events usually happen once, the real impact depends on the follow-through. A clear plan for next steps, paired with strong donor systems, helps turn those first conversations into lasting relationships. While this format is highly effective, its ad hoc nature means it works best as a supplement to more consistent face-to-face channels like door-to-door or private site fundraising.

Virtual “Face-to-Face” (Live Chat & Video)

Technology has made it easier to connect with donors in real time. Conversations that once required meeting in person can now happen through live chat, video calls, or digital tools designed to feel more personal.

Virtual face-to-face fundraising grew quickly during the pandemic and has stayed relevant. It’s especially helpful for reaching people who can’t meet in person because of travel, tight schedules, or accessibility needs. The goal remains the same: build a real connection through a single, meaningful conversation.

For this format to feel authentic, the interaction has to be thoughtful. Clear messaging, active listening, and strong systems that link the conversation back to your broader strategy all play a role. When done well, virtual outreach supports in-field programs and gives nonprofits a flexible way to meet donors where they are.

How to Choose the Right Channel for Your Mission

Choosing the right face-to-face format isn’t just about what’s popular, it’s about what fits. Consider:

• Your donor base: Where are they? What’s their lifestyle or routine?
  
• Your goals: Are you prioritizing brand awareness, sustainer acquisition, or high-value giving?
  
• Your campaign footprint: Do you have access to event spaces or high-traffic sites?
  
• Your internal resources: Can you manage multiple teams, or do you need a turnkey solution?
  

Many successful nonprofits don’t pick just one, they use a hybrid approach that combines door-to-door for reach, private site for consistency, and digital channels to extend access. At Globalfaces, we often recommend this model for our U.S. partners, while in Canada, door-to-door remains the predominant channel.

FAQ

Which in-person fundraising channel works best?
There isn’t one single winner. Door-to-door is great for consistent monthly giving. Private site fundraising allows for more focused conversations in public settings. Street teams help you reach lots of people quickly. Events are ideal for deeper, story-driven talks.

Is door-to-door fundraising still effective today?
Very much so. Talking with someone at their front door still builds trust faster than most other channels, especially when the goal is long-term support.

How do I figure out which format fits my campaign?
Think about your donor base, your goals, and the places where people naturally spend their time. From there, match your outreach to the environment that makes the most sense.

Where does virtual face-to-face fundraising fit in?
It’s a helpful option for people who can’t meet in person. It doesn’t replace traditional face-to-face work, but it adds flexibility and expands your reach.

Can I combine different formats?
Yes, and many nonprofits do. Using a mix of door-to-door, private site, street, and virtual outreach often delivers the strongest overall results.

Putting Face-To-Face Into Practice

Face-to-face fundraising doesn’t follow a single template. It’s a flexible approach that can be shaped to fit the needs of each campaign.

No matter the setting, the goal stays the same: create a real connection with the person in front of you. The strongest programs are the ones that choose their format with purpose and give donors an experience that reflects the organization’s values.

Want to explore which format fits your fundraising strategy? Let’s talk. We’ll help you map out a donor engagement program built for results.