Fundraising Tips
Fundraisers can be a lot of work. Keeping it fun and organized will bring in more participation and increase your chances of having a successful fundraiser. Below are some tips to keep in mind for your next fundraiser.
Select an Objective:
What exactly is the fundraiser for? New sports uniforms, travel expenses, refurbish a neighborhood church, etc.? Make sure you have a clear idea of what the funds will be used for.
Select a Financial Goal:
How much money do you need to raise to make your objective? Create a poster and write the dollar amount you need to raise. Put the poster up where your fundraising volunteers will see it. Having a visual aid will motivate the group and keep you focused.
Set a Deadline:
Your fundraiser should run a maximum length of 2-3 weeks. Keeping the fundraiser short will keep your participants interested, motivated and on track. Put your deadline date next to the financial goal on your poster.
Group Participation:
It's amazing what people can do together as a group. The more the merrier. With everyone participating in the fundraiser will allow members of the group to take breaks, get lunch and snacks, and run errands for any needed supplies without leaving the fundraiser booth unattended.
Money Collection:
Everyone needs to keep an eye on the money box. Elect someone to be the treasurer that will handle the responsibility of keeping the money secure and making the deposits to a bank. Deposits should be done in a timely manner. Always keep the money under lock and key.
Collecting Taxes?
We are not sales tax authorities. However, most states allow products to be sold for fundraisers without having to collect sales tax. We suggest you check with your local authorities if you have any other questions pertaining to sales tax.
Check your Calendar:
Check your community calendar to ensure your fundraiser isn't scheduled during other community activities that could take business away from your fundraiser. (I.e. county fairs, farmers market, parades, etc.) However, do check to see if your fundraiser may participate in some of these activities. It's a good way to get exposure to a large audience.
Publicize your Fundraiser:
Get the word out. Be sure you have a statement prepared to give to the media with all the details of your fundraiser. What is it for? Where will it be? When will it be? What will you be selling? Below is a list of advertising your fundraiser:
- Contact your local papers, radio stations and TV news stations.
- Spread the word to family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.
- Mention it in your school or club newsletters
- Post it to your school's web site.
Picking Fun and Creative Fundraising Products to Sell:
Picking fun and creative fundraising products to sell is more of a challenge. Car washes are boring and if the weather doesn't cooperate, your fundraiser will be a bust. I think the majority of us are sick of candy bars.
Consider selling custom flip flops with your school, sports team's or church colors, name and/or mascot on them. Not only are flip flops immensely popular with both children to adults, having custom colors and your team's, school or organization name on them also promotes your fundraising cause.
After the Fundraiser:
If your fundraiser makes its goals, reward the people involved. Even if you don't quite make your goals, you need to still show appreciation on everyone's efforts. Have a social event. Consider having a picnic, a day at the beach, or have a catered lunch.
Keep these fundraiser tips in mind so your next fundraising event will be a success.
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