As a California high schooler, Alex Queen wrestles with some of the same problems and issues that vex many a professional fundraiser in the article “Effectiveness of Fundraisers” available on Associated Content. This piece introduces some of the various projects undertaken to raise a dollar or two to support activities, clubs and projects.
Queen is absolutely correct in stating that asking for money directly can be the simplest and most immediate way to raise money. For high school projects, a direct letter or appeal made to parents, families and potential supporters can be a very affective way to raise money. Make the best use of a targeted mailing and making it very easy for people to donate are key elements to as successful direct appeal. Make sure to enclose an addressed envelope if you send a letter, and have easy-to-return information if you are canvassing door-to-door. If your cause or project has a good human-interest angle, be sure to use that in your “ask” – having student band members include their own signatures and a photo in a mailing will be far more affective than the band director (unless he or she is extremely popular) or the principal.
As far as events go, Queen is again on to something. Auctions have really been done to death and in even the most moderate size town, there are most likely dozens of auction events held each year so the competition can be stiff and it’s difficult to acquire really great, original items. For teens, auctioning off themselves to do chores, cook a meal, entertain, etc. might be a creative way to raise some money and do something different. “Bachelor” and “Bachelorette” auctions where bidders can win a date or outing with someone can still be a fun way to raise some cash. That is, granted the administration allows such an activity.
Queen professes an appreciation for bowl-a-thons and other pledge-based events. These can be a good way to raise money – especially if you are not competing with other such events. National organizations like the Cancer Society have had very good luck raising large amounts of money from walking events. High schoolers might try to be creative and come up with something fun and kid-friendly, such as a creative take on a relay race or a run, bike and swim event. Take advantage of the athleticism and energy of youth and do something that draws a lot of participants out to have fun. That will only increase the overall revenue.
It is important when considering an event to try to reach a good balance between the amount of work and effort it takes to put on the event and the amount of revenue that is generated. Events like rummage sales can be very time consuming for very little money – while a big pancake breakfast can generate a surprising amount of income for a minimal amount of work.
Finding corporate and business sponsors is another efficient and old school ways school projects can find funding. Start the search for sponsors with businesses and companies who likely have an “interest” in your school – restaurants, coffee shops, gaming stores and other businesses frequented by students (especially those in close proximately to the school) may be the ones most likely to see the benefit from supporting school projects. The more press and public relations you can offer them for their donation and sponsorship, the better. If you can put an ad or list names in a program, poster or banner, this can be a great selling point to corporate sponsors. Not to mention the classic putting the business name on a uniform!
Another possibility is to look for matching donations. If someone is willing to match the total amount (or even a portion) raised from a traditional car wash or bake sale – you can double the revenue with the same amount of work.
Raising funds for projects and clubs is challenging whether you are a professional fundraiser for a national organization, or a teenager trying to fund a band trip or sports season. Alex Queen has some great ideas and criticism of the process and, hopefully, I’ve been able to provide a few additional ideas as well.
