People increasingly carry no cash, which makes the traditional collection jar less effective at events, in lobbies, and at community fundraisers. A QR code next to the jar gives those supporters a way to give on the spot. The key is where the code leads: it should open your organization's own official donation page, the same one listed on your website, and nowhere else.
Fundraising also runs in campaigns. A spring appeal, a building fund, a holiday drive: each may have its own page. With a dynamic code, the printed materials in your lobby or on your collection boxes can follow the current campaign. When the appeal ends, point the code at your general giving page so the printed piece stays useful.
Where to place it
- On or beside collection jars and donation boxes at events, counters, and reception areas.
- Printed in event programs and dinner table cards, near the section describing your mission or appeal.
- On posters and banners at walks, runs, and community fundraisers, at eye level near registration tables.
- In printed newsletters and annual reports mailed to supporters, next to a short impact story.
- On thank-you cards and receipts, inviting supporters to give again or set up a recurring gift.
Tips that improve scans
Show donors it is legitimate
Print your organization's full name, logo, and website domain next to the code. On the landing page, show the same branding and contact details so donors can confirm they reached the real organization.
Guard against tampering
Fraudsters sometimes paste their own codes over legitimate ones. Check public materials regularly, use tamper-evident placement where possible, and tell supporters to make sure the page address matches your website.
Be specific in the call-to-action
"Scan to give $25 for a week of meals" connects the scan to an outcome. Vague wording like "Support us" is easier to ignore, especially at busy events.
Make the giving page short
Donors scanning on a phone want a few amount buttons and a fast checkout. Explain the cause briefly at the top and avoid long forms before payment.
From holiday drive to year-round giving
A neighborhood food pantry places collection boxes with QR stickers in a dozen local shops for its holiday drive. The code opens a campaign page with a progress bar. When the drive ends in January, the volunteer coordinator points the same code at the pantry's general donation page. The stickers stay up all year, and shop owners do not need to replace anything when spring and back-to-school appeals begin.