Everyone knows someone who has a child or student who is doing a fundraiser for one organization or another. These events do not have to be tedious or even the standard sales fundraisers; they can be fun and interactive while raising money for the cause. When trying to come up with a new or unique fundraiser, try finding a program or event that the participants can enjoy, this will help boost participation and success.
Sports Organizations
Sports organizations often use the tried and proven method of sales for fundraising to purchase equipment and uniforms. Rather than having them try to outsell each other and have to push participation of both the parents and the players, try something different. A wacky water tournament is one low cost idea. Have the players pass out event flyers and charge admission or entry fees. Doing this at the sports complex grounds saves on having to pay for a location, while using water balloons and spray hoses as the tools of the tournament saves on equipment costs as well. Ideas for the tournament include water balloon ball, like baseball but with water balloons, and water tag, like laser tag but with water guns. Think up several events that can have a water substitute and have fun while raising money for the team.
Small Private Schools
Many small private schools face a big problem when it comes to fundraising-not enough students to raise the needed funds. Try hosting a murder mystery party and dinner; participants will be immersed in an evening of treachery, murder, blackmail, intrigue and back stabbing. Guests assume the roles of characters in the plot, and at the end the killer, or killers, is revealed. To make this party into a fundraiser, simply outline the expenses, which should equal twenty to twenty-five percent of the funds expected to be raised. Based on this cost set the ticket price and have students post announcements with RSVP information included. Place a "tip" jar near the entrance after all the guest/players have arrived to encourage extra donations at the end of the party.
Causes
Try something new to raise money and awareness for a specific cause; for example animal shelters can set up a "Caged for Critters" event where people can have a friend, family member or co-worker "caught" and "caged." These people will be released when a specified amount is raised for the cause. The participants can be housed in large kennel-style enclosures at either a public place like the food court at a mall or in a busy downtown park. Contacting local media to have the event covered can spread the word without adding advertisement costs. Those captured should be allowed to contact friends and family to help pay their "fine," thus raising both money and awareness for the cause. This can become an annual event for the entire community.
Tags: money awareness, raising money, water balloons, while raising, while raising money, with water