Learning From Other Successful Fundraisers

Fundraising gives kids a sense of empowerment. It teaches them the value of helping others when they are not in a position to financially do so themselves. The act of fundraising shows them that they are capable of making a difference. What an important lesson for them to learn! I also suggest that you make sure that the kids get plenty of publicity (as is true for all fundraisers). But establish a reporter who will interview the children for the local papers before they begin their event. If it's a short term fundraiser then make certain that the children are interviewed again at the end with photos and recognition to the top fund raiser. If it's a long campaign media updates are important. Do remember the importance of developing children's self-esteem. This memory will last with them a lifetime and help form their sense of self.

One of the oldest, perhaps it is the oldest, is the ongoing fundraiser done annually by the Girl Scouts of America. Since 1917 girls have been selling cookies--although for many years the cookies were ones they made themselves from one recipe. This fundraiser brings in money to support camps, volunteer training, activities, etc. And who among us doesn't look forward to those chocolate mint cookies?

This was always a door to door activity but it has also evolved to locations where people gather--at the grocery store, the mall, we even have a troop that sets up at the transfer and recycling station. Take a lesson from this organization! There is more than one way to skin a cat!