Running a successful PTA fundraiser requires getting the entire school community excited and involved. That means your fundraiser has to appeal to the people you’re running it for. Tailoring your fundraising initiative to the specific group you’re serving is a must if you want to get maximum participation and engagement.
The fundraisers that work well for elementary schools probably aren’t the right fit for high schools, and vice versa. So, as you’re thinking about what to do for your next fundraiser, consider these ideas for every age group.
Tried and true, the Penny Drive is a traditional PTA fundraiser for elementary schools that has students collect loose change to raise funds. Boost participation by creating a friendly competition among classes or grades.
Foster that entrepreneurial spirit in students by hosting a school-wide lemonade stand for the community. Encourage students to create their own lemonade recipes and sell during school pick-up and during after school activities when parents and school community members are present.
Put the work of your artists and artisans on display in an art and craft auction. Run an event showcasing their pieces either online or in-person and invite parents and school community members to bid on the masterpieces.
A bake sale is a classic middle school fundraiser that’s always popular both for the participating bakers and the buyers. Request that middle school students bake and sell their own sweet treats, the more creative the better! You can also include teachers and school administrators to get everyone engaged.
Are your middle school students mad about sports? A friendly sports tournament is a great fundraiser that rallies everyone whether they’re participating or spectatoring. If students are more excited for chess or board games, you can create a tournament around that. Fundraise by selling tickets to the event, charging entry fees for teams, or having teams solicit sponsors to donate on their behalf.
Middle school students are talented, so give them an opportunity to showcase what they do best! Organize a talent show fundraiser at your middle school and base it on one of your favorite reality show talent competitions. Sell tickets to the audience to fundraise and if you want to maximize your fundraising dollars, include a concession stand or silent auction.
A car wash is a classic high school fundraiser that always delivers on fun and funds. It’s a great way to involve the community in supporting your school and the kids who participate have a great time. Schedule your car wash fundraiser for a weekend day (or both) in a high traffic area to maximize your donations.
Host a movie night featuring an old fan favorite, cult classic, or newly released movie. Use your auditorium for a more formal event or if you want a more casual vibe, set up your movie night fundraiser outside picnic-style and projecting onto the school wall, or in the gym with mats for lounging. Sell tickets for admission and offer a concession stand with all the fixings.
A viral video challenge fundraiser is a great alternative to holding an in-person event, particularly if you’re looking for a low fuss fundraiser. It all starts with setting the purpose and goal for the fundraiser, creating a challenge component, and making and sharing a video with your community on social media. For example, if you’re raising money for the senior prom, you might create a video showing your best dance move and announcing your donation before tagging a few people in your community challenging them to a virtual dance-off and donation, before they tag others. It’s a super fun way to get people excited and involved.
Choosing a fundraiser designed for your age group is one of the most important things you can do to be successful because you’ll be ensuring your school community is excited and motivated to participate. And bringing everyone together for lots of fun while supporting the school is always a win!
