How Do Custom Lapel Pins Help Nonprofits Raise Money and Support? | Bella Forge
Why Custom Pins Work for Nonprofits
When you are working with limited funds but a powerful mission, every touchpoint counts. Custom lapel pins are a simple way to:
- Show appreciation to donors, staff, and volunteers
- Raise awareness for your cause in a lasting way
- Fundraise with low cost, high margin merchandise
- Unite your community around a shared symbol or message
They are easy to carry, display, or gift. When tied to a meaningful mission, they become conversation starters that keep your cause visible.
Real Use Cases We Have Seen at Bella Forge
| Use Case | Example |
|---|---|
| Volunteer Recognition | Animal shelters, clean up crews, teachers |
| Awareness Campaigns | Mental health, cancer, autism, environmental |
| Donor Thank You Gifts | Monthly giving clubs, major gift donors |
| Fundraising Merchandise | Sold at events or online to raise money |
| Mission Trips or Service Projects | Pins for participants or hosts |
| Memorial and Tribute Pins | Honor past supporters or beneficiaries |
Even a simple design such as a paw print, ribbon, or heart can carry deep meaning when tied to your mission.
What Kind of Pins Work Best for Charities
| Pin Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Soft Enamel | Colorful, affordable, and textured, most popular |
| Hard Enamel | Smooth, polished, great for donor gifts |
| UV Printed | Ideal for logos, gradients, or photos |
| Die Struck | All metal tribute style with no color |
Soft enamel is the most common choice for awareness campaigns and fundraising because it balances cost and impact.
How Nonprofits Use Pins to Fundraise
- Sell pins at events or online
- Offer them as rewards for donations (for example, ten dollars gets a pin)
- Include them in sponsor packages or donor tiers
- Bundle them with shirts, stickers, or thank you cards
- Use them as perks for volunteers or attendees
Sample Pricing and Fundraising Table
| Qty | Cost per Pin (est.) | Sell Price | Profit per Pin | Potential Funds Raised |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | $2.50 | $10 | $7.50 | $750 |
| 250 | $2.10 | $10 | $7.90 | $1,975 |
| 500 | $1.85 | $12 | $10.15 | $5,075 |
Tip: Limited edition or campaign specific designs increase urgency and boost sales.
What’s the Difference Between Hard Enamel, Soft Enamel, and UV Printed Lapel Pins? | Bella Forge
Volunteer and Donor Recognition
Pins are not only for fundraising. They are also powerful tools for gratitude. Nonprofits use them to:
- Thank long time volunteers
- Celebrate board members
- Acknowledge monthly donors
- Show appreciation to sponsors
- Commemorate lives lost or supported
Design ideas: Logo plus “VOLUNTEER” or “SUPPORTER,” years of service, or meaningful symbols like ribbons, trees, footprints, or animals.
How to Design a Great Charity Pin
- Keep designs simple with fewer colors and bold outlines
- Use cause related colors or symbols
- Make it meaningful by connecting the design to the mission
- Add a backer card with a thank you note or story
- Stay within one to one and one quarter inches for best wearability
Bella Forge provides free artwork and proofs. You can start with just an idea or logo, and we will guide you through the process.
How Long Does It Take
Plan about three to four weeks total:
- Design and proofing: two to five business days
- Production: ten to fifteen business days
- Shipping: two to five business days
Rush options may be available, but early planning provides the best results and pricing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are raising funds, spreading awareness, or showing gratitude, custom pins are one of the most cost effective tools available to nonprofits. They are personal, visible, and easy to share. With Bella Forge, you get expert help, high quality pins, and friendly support, no design skills required.
More Questions? Please see our FAQ page.