2020 may have changed a lot of things in the education field, but there’s one thing that will likely never change: schools need to raise money. There are a myriad of things a school might need extra funds to support. Whether it be programs or supplies or equipment, these things create a better experience for the student. This applies to public, private and charter schools. All three share a common goal: How can we set students up for success?
School fundraising often falls on either the school administration or school PTO/PTA. The task can come with a lot of pressure. After all, what will happen if the money isn’t raised? Which students will lose out?
As we begin the 2021 year, here are a few fundraising ideas to inspire you as you plan the year out.
Charleston Wrap is an online fundraising platform that creates custom online brochures for parents to purchase from. Promotional tools are provided to schools to help get the word out. All products are shipped directly to parents after purchase.
Otis Spunkmeyer is an excellent way for schools to fundraise by utilizing parents and students to sell cookie dough to friends and family. This fundraiser is usually driven by incentives to reward individuals for going above and beyond on their cookie dough selling. It also helps that the cookies are delicious!
Ozark Delight Lollipops is also a product fundraising company. Families can either pre-order or use an order sheet for lollipop sales to the public. Ozark has helped over 10,000 schools generate millions of dollars over the last 25 years. Their lollipops come in many flavors, including: tropical splash, strawberry cheesecake, wild cherry and watermelon.
ShopWithScrip is a fundraising platform where parents, teachers, and the public can buy gift cards from popular retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. A percentage of the gift card cost will immediately go back to the school program the user is registered under. ShopWithScrip has a mobile website for easy access to physical gift cards, reloads, and eGift cards.
Impacks offers an easy fundraising experience for schools by giving parents a simple way to purchase school supply kits that are customized to their child’s school and grade. At check out parents will have the opportunity to donate back to their school. If they do, they will be rewarded with a $5.00 match donation from Impacks. This is a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance fundraiser that requires minimal set up from school administration. Curious how it works? More on that here.
Whatever fundraising strategy you use, the most important thing you can do is connect with your community. The first community is, of course, the school itself. Administration, educators, parents, and students. Then there is the broader community that the school serves. Your neighborhoods, city, and region. No matter how creative the fundraiser, it will amount to very little without the support of your community.
How can you gain their support? Spread the message early, often, and with passion. All those involved must see the potential and feel the impact. If you can rally your community, you will be unstoppable!