After a loved one passes away, family and friends are often left to pay the funeral bill, which can be costly. Added to the high cost of burial (which can include embalming, casket, hearse, cemetery, headstone, and other costs) is the emotional difficulty of asking friends and family to help out with expenses. Facing these expenses is usually the last thing we want to think about in the aftermath of a loss.
Crowdfunding has become a proven and popular way to raise funds for funerals from family and friends who knew the deceased and want to help pay for funeral expenses. We’ve seen many families raise the funds they need on GoFundMe. You’ll find that people are often glad to be able to help in a concrete way. Beyond raising money, your crowdfunding fundraiser can also give family and friends a place to post loving words and remembrances.
One way to honor a loved one while raising funds is to hold a benefit tournament playing your loved one’s favorite sport.
Partner with a restaurant to raise funds for your loved one’s funeral.
If your loved one was an integral member of the community, look into creating a public mural on a wall donated by a local business or civic institution. For a less public celebration, you can create a portable mural on canvas. Public parks, fields, or community centers can be good locations.
Mourning is a process that involves healing on many levels–both individually and collectively. One way to encourage healing is to through an event where family and friends participate in a healing ritual.
Funerals bring people together to mourn, celebrate, and heal. Although the expense can be high, crowdfunding is a proven way to raise the funds you need while bringing people together in the name of your loved one. If you haven’t already started a funeral fundraiser, start your fundraiser today.