Fundraising is essential for schools, charities, and community programs looking to support activities, trips, and special events. Whether you’re raising money for a school trip, a high school band, or a charitable cause, the right approach can maximize donations and engagement. In this guide, we’ll explore practical fundraising tips, seasonal ideas like Halloween fundraisers, charity, and classic fundraisers like Krispy Kreme and candy bar sales.
1. General Fundraising Tips for Schools and Charities
a) Set a Clear Goal
Define how much money you need and what it will be used for. For example, if you’re fundraising for a school trip, break down costs per student so donors understand their impact.
b) Choose the Right Fundraiser
Consider your audience when selecting a fundraiser. Will students, parents, or the wider community be your main supporters? Popular fundraisers include:
- Product Sales (candy bars, pies, Krispy Kreme donuts)
- Events (car washes, bake sales, auctions)
- Digital Fundraising (crowdfunding, social media campaigns)
c) Promote Your Fundraiser
Use flyers, school newsletters, and social media to spread the word. Schools can also announce fundraisers during assemblies and parent-teacher meetings.
d) Offer Multiple Ways to Contribute
Make donating easy by offering:
- Online payment options (Venmo, PayPal, school websites)
- Cash and check payments for traditional donors
- QR codes for quick digital contributions
2. Halloween Fundraising Ideas for Schools
Halloween is a perfect time for fun, themed fundraising events. Here are a few spooky and creative ideas:
a) Haunted House Fundraiser
Transform a school gym or classroom into a haunted house and charge admission. Have students volunteer as actors and design spooky decorations.
b) Costume Contest or Fashion Show
Charge an entry fee and let students show off their best costumes. Offer prizes for different categories like “Scariest Costume” or “Most Creative.”
c) Pumpkin Carving Contest
Sell pumpkins and charge a small entry fee for a carving contest. Display the pumpkins at a school event or online for voting.
d) Trunk-or-Treat Event
Parents decorate their cars and hand out candy in a school parking lot. Charge a small participation fee, and invite local businesses to sponsor the event.
e) Spooky Bake Sale
Sell Halloween-themed treats like pumpkin muffins, ghost cookies, and caramel apples. Make it more fun by having students decorate baked goods.
3. High School Band Fundraisers
High school bands often need funding for uniforms, instruments, and travel to competitions. Here are some great fundraising ideas:
a) Band Concert Fundraiser
Host a themed concert and sell tickets. Offer VIP seating and concessions for additional revenue.
b) “Rent a Musician” Program
Band members perform at private events or offer music lessons in exchange for donations.
c) Instrument Cleaning and Repair Services
Offer instrument cleaning and minor repairs for a fee. Parents of younger music students will appreciate the service.
d) Custom Merchandise Sales
Sell T-shirts, hoodies, and water bottles featuring the school band’s logo.
e) Battle of the Bands Competition
Invite local school bands to compete in a music showdown. Sell tickets and offer prizes to the winning group.
4. How to Fundraise for a School Trip
School trips can be expensive, but the right fundraiser can help lower costs for students and families.
a) Crowdfunding Campaigns
Set up a campaign on GoFundMe or DonorsChoose. Share the link with parents, local businesses, and social media groups.
b) “Adopt a Student” Program
Community members can sponsor individual students, covering part of their trip expenses.
c) Themed Dinner Night
Host a spaghetti dinner or pancake breakfast, with ticket sales going toward the trip.
d) Community Yard Sale
Families donate items to sell, and proceeds help fund the trip.
e) “No-Sell” Fundraiser
Ask parents for direct donations rather than selling products. Some prefer to donate money instead of buying items they don’t need.
5. Krispy Kreme Fundraiser for Schools
Krispy Kreme fundraising is a simple and effective way to raise money. Here’s how it works:
a) Sell Dozen-Donut Certificates
Instead of handling perishable donuts, sell certificates that supporters can redeem at any Krispy Kreme location.
b) Pre-Order Donuts for Delivery
Take orders in advance and have a designated pickup day at school.
c) Partner with a Krispy Kreme Store
Some locations offer fundraising nights where a portion of sales goes to your school.
Pro Tip: Krispy Kreme donuts sell fast, so target workplaces, churches, and community groups to increase sales.
6. Old-School Candy Bar Fundraisers
Selling candy bars remains one of the easiest ways to raise funds. Here’s how to make it successful:
a) Choose a Popular Candy Brand
Brands like Hershey’s, World’s Finest Chocolate, and See’s Candies are trusted by buyers.
b) Set Up Sales Tables
Sell at school events, sports games, and community centers.
c) Create Sales Competitions
Offer prizes for the top-selling students to boost participation.
d) Sell in Bulk to Local Businesses
Ask stores or offices to purchase boxes for their employees or customers.
7. Pie Fundraiser for Schools
Pie fundraisers are especially popular around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Here’s how to make the most of them:
a) Work with a Local Bakery or Supplier
Many bakeries offer fundraising programs where you sell pies and keep a portion of the profits.
b) Offer a Variety of Flavors
Apple, pumpkin, pecan, and cherry pies tend to sell the best.
c) Take Pre-Orders
Avoid excess inventory by selling pies through a pre-order system.
d) Organize a Pie Bake-Off
Charge an entry fee and have students, parents, or local bakers compete. Sell slices or whole pies after the contest.
Conclusion
Charity is more than just giving; it’s about creating a better world for everyone. Whether you’re an individual, a nonprofit, or a business, there are countless ways to contribute to meaningful causes.
By following Fundraising Tips effective fundraising tips, learning from companies that prioritize donations, crafting compelling donation requests, and incorporating philanthropy into your investment strategy, you can make a lasting impact. Remember, every act of generosity, no matter how small, has the power to change lives. Let’s work together to build a brighter, more compassionate future.