To successfully get a fundraiser going, it takes a bit of prep-work and planning. It can get a little overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. Who’s going to be running the fundraiser? How will the money get collected, and the product gets distributed? What’s the goal for the fundraiser? Can you expand your reach past that initial target? Each fundraiser and each school is different; there’s never going to be just one way to raise money for your school. Here are tips to consider with your next big fundraiser!
1. Get Started Early: Fundraisers can go on anytime throughout the year. If you’re looking to raise money for improvements to the school in 2021, start planning now! The longer people have to donate or purchase something, the better. Plus, it provides the opportunity for participants to share your fundraiser with family and friends for maximum profits.
2. Set A Clear Goal: Don’t be vague about why the fundraiser is happening. Does the Arts department need money for new supplies? Does the school need new tablets for the students and staff? People love seeing a clear goal for where the donations are going.
3. Build A Good Team: The fundraiser is nothing without the people running it. It would help if you had strong people who can:
- Keep everyone on task with deadlines.
- Keep track of donations coming in and the products going out, even if it’s all through a website. Technical errors can happen too.
- Keep the crowd interested. This could be someone who reminds staff, parents, and students about the fundraiser. It could also be someone who runs social media accounts for the fundraiser.
4. Ask For Advice: It’s normal to hit roadblocks during a fundraiser, especially if it takes place over a couple of months. Don’t hesitate to talk to people who have gone through fundraisers themselves, research the internet for blogs like this one, or even call Profits Plus to discuss your ideas and goals! Getting a fresh perspective can be incredibly insightful!
5. Don’t Forget to Say “Thank You”: Thank you is very easy to say, and it can make a world of difference in someone’s life. A fundraiser is never mandatory for the donators or even the volunteers. They donate because they support the school, the company, and where the money is going. Show your appreciation for the donations by sending thank you notes to the donators or making an announcement of some kind. That gesture shows that their contributions are truly appreciated. Not only will the patrons be more inclined to give the next fundraiser, but they’ll spread the word about your great cause.
