How to run a read-a-thon fundraiser (step by step)
A read-a-thon is a fundraiser where students get pledges for each book they read (or minutes they spend reading). It pairs fundraising with literacy, which is why libraries and elementary schools love it. Supporters pledge per book, kids log their reading, and the result sets each donation. On PledgeHub you create an event, add your roster, set goals, share a single QR code on event day, and enter each result afterward so pledges are charged automatically. It takes a few minutes to set up and is free to start.
What is a read-a-thon?
A read-a-thon is a fundraiser where students get pledges for each book they read (or minutes they spend reading). It pairs fundraising with literacy, which is why libraries and elementary schools love it. Supporters pledge per book, kids log their reading, and the result sets each donation.
How does pledge per book work?
A supporter pledges an amount per pound (for example $0.50 per pound). The athlete enters a projected number, supporters can cap their total, and after the event the real result decides the final charge. You always see the estimated total before you confirm.
The five steps
Create your event
Pick reading as your activity, set a goal, and choose fixed gifts, pledges per book, or both.
Add your roster
Add each participant once. Your roster is reusable across every event you run.
Set goals and link participants
Give each participant a personal goal and their own shareable page.
Share your QR code
Print one QR code for event day. Supporters scan, pick a participant, and pledge per book.
Enter results and collect
After the event, enter each result. Pledges are charged automatically based on what they did.
How much does a read-a-thon cost?
PledgeHub is free to start, with no upfront cost and no contract. We keep a small platform fee from what you raise, far below the 20 percent or more that platforms like Snap! Raise take. On top of that there is the standard Stripe payment processing fee, and donors can choose to cover it so your team keeps nearly all of every gift.
Frequently asked questions
A lift-a-thon is a sports fundraiser where athletes get pledges for each pound they lift, lap they run, or rep they complete. Supporters promise an amount per unit, the athlete performs on event day, and the final result sets each donation.