Fundraising isn’t just about asking for money—it’s about creating energy, excitement, and shared purpose. That’s why visual tools like a goal thermometer are so powerful. Whether you’re tracking progress toward a campaign, matching grant, or year-end appeal, a simple printable fundraising thermometer can boost momentum and keep your team and supporters engaged every step of the way.
If you’re a nonprofit executive director, board member, or treasurer, this tool can help you clearly communicate goals, show progress in real time, and inspire more giving with every update.
What Is a Goal Thermometer?
A goal thermometer is a visual fundraising tracker that looks like a classic thermometer—except instead of showing temperature, it tracks your campaign’s financial progress. As donations roll in, you color in the thermometer to reflect how close you are to your goal.
This tool works great:
- At in-person events
- In your office or board room
- As a photo update in email newsletters
- On social media to show public progress
Why Nonprofit Leaders and Treasurers Love It
Here’s why this simple printable tool is a favorite among nonprofit teams:
It Creates Visibility and Excitement
Seeing tangible progress inspires both donors and staff to stay motivated. When you’re 80% to goal, people want to help you cross the finish line.
It Helps with Internal Alignment
For treasurers and board members, a thermometer chart makes it easy to communicate updates to your leadership team without diving into spreadsheets.
It’s a Great Tool for Events
Hosting a gala, fun run, or giving day? Hang your fundraising thermometer in a visible spot and update it live. It creates urgency and drives more donations on the spot.
It Encourages Repeat Giving
When donors see that their gift has moved the needle—even just a little—they’re more likely to give again or encourage others to join in
How to Use Your Fundraising Goal Thermometer
- Set Your Goal
Choose a clear, measurable fundraising target (e.g., $10,000 for a summer youth program). - Print the Thermometer
Use our free goal thermometer and write your goal at the top and increments along the side (e.g., $1,000, $2,500, etc.). - Track and Share Progress
Update the chart as you receive donations—daily, weekly, or in real-time during events. Share updates in team meetings, emails, and social media. - Celebrate Milestones
Highlight key moments like “We’re halfway there!” or “Only $2,000 to go!” These announcements can trigger new donations and energize your community.
While the printable thermometer is a fantastic visual tool, treasurers should also track funds securely and accurately. That’s where Crowded can help. Crowded is a modern nonprofit financial platform designed to make fundraising and fund tracking simple, transparent, and compliant.
With Crowded, your team can:
- Create custom donation links for campaigns
- Collect payments via card, ACH, Apple/Google Pay, check, or cash
- Automatically log and categorize funds
- See real-time totals to update your thermometer accurately
- Export reports to share progress with your board or funders
By combining a goal thermometer with Crowded’s financial tools, your team stays organized while keeping your community inspired and involved.
Get a Free Goal Thermometer Template
Ready to Rally your Community Around your Goal?
Donors love to see their impact—and nonprofit teams love to celebrate progress. A goal thermometer does both. Whether you’re running a capital campaign, a Giving Tuesday push, or a grassroots fundraiser, this simple visual can help you cross the finish line with confidence.
Your questions, answered.
What is a goal thermometer used for in fundraising?
A goal thermometer is a visual tool nonprofits use to track and display progress toward a fundraising goal. As donations come in, the thermometer is filled in to show how close the campaign is to reaching its target, which helps motivate both donors and staff.
How can a goal thermometer increase donations?
Fundraising thermometers drive urgency and excitement by making progress visible. When donors see how close you are to hitting a goal, they’re more likely to contribute or increase their gift to help push the campaign over the finish line.
Can I use a goal thermometer for online campaigns?
Yes! While the printable version is great for in-person settings, you can also take photos or scans of your updated chart to share via email, social media, or on your campaign landing page. This keeps online donors engaged with visual progress updates.
What should I include on a goal thermometer?
Include your total fundraising goal at the top, marked increments along the side (e.g., every $1,000 or $5,000), and a space to color in or update progress. You can also add your campaign name or logo to brand it for your event or organization.
How does Crowded supporting goal thermometer progress?
Crowded simplifies tracking campaign donations in real time, making it easy to update your goal thermometer accurately. With customizable donation links, instant payment tracking, and reporting features, treasurers and nonprofit teams can stay organized while maximizing transparency and donor trust.
