Most schools will have an annual fundraiser that includes all of the students. They may also have smaller fundraisers for the band, athletic teams, special events or even for field trips or travel.
Making these fundraisers for schools as streamlined and simple as possible is the key to success. This goes along with having a top fundraising company to work with. Unfortunately, mistakes are all too common in the planning and seller phase of the fundraiser, which can dramatically decrease the amount brought in over the sales period and also creating more problems for the organizing committee and the volunteers.
Talk to the Fundraising Company
Failing to talk to the fundraising company is a mistake that many organizing committees make. It is important to not just read the website, but get clarification in any area where there is uncertainty in the ordering, payment or shipment process.
Some of the top companies also provide information on fundraisers for schools that can be very helpful to the committee. This information should include tips and ideas, information about the products offered as well as how to set and monitor goals.
Too Long or Too Short
The timing of fundraisers for schools is another important factor. Too short of a time for the sales will limit your earnings while too long of a sales time results in diminishing returns and dropping enthusiasm on the part of the students and parents.
It is always a good idea to provide advance information about the fundraiser to the community. It is also important to let people know why the funds are being raised as this can also motivate people to get involved.
Start Off with a Bang
Start any school fundraiser with a big promotion. This is important to get the kids excited about making sales as well as to get them talking to parents, neighbors and family.
It is a good idea to have incentives for students for sales. This doesn’t have to be complicated and many of the best fundraising companies can provide easy online options for tracking sales and even how to provide these rewards and incentives.
Finally, make sure that the fundraiser is really a school effort and not just the effort of a small group within the school. By getting everyone involved, it is more dynamic and creates a real buzz in the community and the school, helping to raise those necessary funds.
