Fundraisers are done to help charities and other non-profit organizations raise money. Occasionally, a group will put together a fundraiser to help out a mutual friend or relative who may be undergoing an unusual hardship, perhaps because of unforeseen medical expenses. Fundraisers generally have a purpose and, often, a monetary goal. Whatever the goal, fundraisers are more likely to be successful if they are also fun. It creates more enthusiasm, and the workers, though driven by the goal, will naturally put in more energy if the activity is also fun.
Fundraiser Activities
Classic examples of fundraiser events include a car wash, cake walk or group garage sale. With a little more work, and possibly the use of a school playground or blacktop, set up a small carnival. Or consider indoor activities, where weather won't be a factor. Use a gym, and have a karaoke night with an entrance fee or drink minimum. (You can sell soft drinks only if it's a non-alcoholic venue.) Or set up a casino. People "pay" for their chips, but all winnings are used to "buy" donated items, so the money stays with the organization. And don't forget marathon walks (or jogs) where people make pledges for the participants.
Fundraiser Sales
Organizations can raise funds by selling cookies or candy, either by carrying the boxes with them or by having people place orders. And there are those sales that are one-time, such as a baked goods sale. But if your organization's members have craft skills and time, consider coming up with an original item to sell. It could be a simple wreath, perhaps with a particular motif (such as school colors woven into it) that would appeal to the target consumers. Selling flowers for delivery is another fundraising idea. This works particularly well if the fundraiser is centered at a single location, like a school or company.
Fundraiser Donations
Many fundraisers rely on donations. Many organizations send members to collect donations on street corners or at intersections, such as volunteer firemen filling the "boot." Perhaps your organization can set up and man tables or buckets.
Donations at schools can be made by voting. Host a contest -- make it humorous, like the teacher with the most votes will the target of a whipped cream pie-throwing contest. (Naturally, any teachers participating have to agree first.) The winner is determined by the most votes or the most money in his jar.
Large chains, such as Kroger or Target, will donate to certain causes. They have programs in which donations can be made to organizations based on a percentage of sales. Generally, they issue cards for the organization to hand out, and whenever a patron of the store shows the card, a portion of their sale is donated.
Tags: most votes, your organization