As many of you know I am very active in my children’s schools. This past year I admit I was burned out and took some time off from the PTO. However, I will be returning this Fall and running for my President spot again. I truly miss it! I think one of my favorite things to do is the dreaded fundraisers! Back to school fundraising events are always a worthy cause, and making sure that you rally the enthusiasm and support of everyone around you is one of keys to its success. I know when I took the president spot for my first year and decided to do a few fundraisers, people thought I was nuts! I had board members telling me it wouldn’t work and our families wouldn’t buy anything. I am happy to say I proved them wrong! We exceeded our goals and made a lot of well needed extra money!
The first mission is to let students, parents, teachers, and their families, know the important details of your cause. Also make sure you stress that you need their help and make sure you are being clear on where all that money is going to go. Use social media such as Facebook and Twitter and the traditional newspaper and posters and fliers. Be sure to provide the correct information about the event. Remember, the more people are aware of your cause, the more money you can raise.
Next is to pick the best fundraiser ideas that will entice people to participate. These can range from coupon fundraising and selling cookies to fun runs and walkathons and of course fun events like movie and game nights. It is important to parallel the activity with the cause and to use time-tested fundraising products, such as pins, pens, and even wristbands from places like SleekWristbands.com, so you can raise hundreds, and even thousand, of dollars!
Coupon fundraising in particular is gaining popularity among many. Easy Dough Fundraising offers the Enjoy the City coupon book that can be sold for $20 each. The colorful coupon book offers the opportunity to save money when used at any of the 16,000 merchants all over the country. We had a really good experience with the well-known coupon books. We all know people love to save these days but are also giving back.
Back to school fundraisers are also a chance for organizers to get very creative by making personalized products that can enhance school spirit and get the attention of loyal alumni. Products with the school logo or crest, class year, and other distinguishing designs make for great mementos. Whatever idea you go with and whatever products you choose to sell, the important thing is to stay true to your fundraising campaign’s cause. There are many ideas that you can use to plan, organize, and execute the best back to school fundraising event. If you would like to see what other schools are having success with make sure you check out PTO Today! I love this site! The support system there is great and They will help you have a successful school year as your new role in PTO!