57 School Fundraising Ideas
Release the Power of School Fundraisers: Expert Tips for PTA Parents and Booster Club Members
Our Favorite School Fundraising Idea
Simply show your brochure to your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Remember that door-to-door fundraising and in hand product fundraising sales require adult supervision.
You get:
- Free resources.
- Helpful training demonstrations.
- Then demo the catalog presentation so your volunteers and supporters will do it correctly.
Winter Wonderland fundraiser
Sell Cookie dough
Snackin’ In The USA
Gourmet Goodness Catalog
Elementary School Fundraisers
Walk-a-Thon or Fun Run
- Collect recipes from students, parents, teachers, and staff, emphasizing a variety of cuisines and dietary preferences.
- Organize the recipes into categories such as appetizers, main dishes, desserts, and beverages.
- Design and layout the cookbook, incorporating photos, anecdotes, and cooking tips to enhance its appeal.
- Print copies of the cookbook through a reputable printing service or local print shop.
- Set prices for the cookbooks, considering production costs and desired profit margins.
- Promote the cookbook sale through pre-orders, social media, and community events.
- Offer incentives such as bundled deals or personalized editions to encourage sales.
Silent Auction
Transform donated items into bidding wars at a Silent Auction. From artwork to unique experiences, the possibilities are endless, and the excitement is contagious. Tip: Showcase high-value items prominently and provide detailed descriptions to entice bidders, and consider offering online bidding options to reach a wider audience. Action Steps:
- Solicit donations from local businesses, community members, and school families for auction items.
- Create a catalog of auction items, including detailed descriptions, estimated values, and starting bid prices.
- Set up a designated area for the silent auction display, ensuring items are organized and easily accessible for bidders.
- Train volunteers to manage the auction, answer questions from bidders, and facilitate the bidding process.
- Promote the silent auction through various channels, such as email newsletters, social media posts, and school announcements.
- Consider implementing mobile bidding technology to streamline the auction process and attract more participants.
- Follow up with winning bidders after the event to arrange item pickup or delivery and express gratitude for their support.
School Carnival
- Plan the layout of the carnival, allocating space for game booths, food vendors, entertainment stages, and restroom facilities.
- Recruit volunteers to coordinate different aspects of the carnival, including setup, operation, and cleanup.
- Secure necessary permits and permissions from school administration, local authorities, and vendors.
- Arrange for attractions such as inflatable bounce houses, carnival games, face painting stations, and live performances.
- Create a schedule of activities and entertainment to keep attendees engaged throughout the event.
- Sell tickets for admission to the carnival and offer discounted rates for advance purchases or bundled packages.
- Promote the carnival through flyers, banners, social media, and word-of-mouth marketing to attract attendees from the community.
Talent Show
- Invite students, teachers, parents, and community members to showcase their talents in the talent show.
- Establish audition dates and criteria to ensure quality performances and diversity of acts.
- Secure a venue with adequate seating, lighting, sound equipment, and backstage areas for performers.
- Create a rehearsal schedule to allow participants to practice their acts and receive feedback from organizers.
- Design promotional materials such as posters, flyers, and digital ads to publicize the talent show.
- Sell tickets for admission to the talent show and offer VIP seating options or backstage passes for additional revenue.
- Coordinate with volunteers to manage ticket sales, ushering, concessions, and event logistics on the day of the show.
Art Exhibit
- Solicit artwork submissions from students, teachers, and staff, encouraging a variety of mediums and styles.
- Establish criteria for artwork selection, focusing on originality, creativity, and artistic merit.
- Set up a designated exhibition space such as the school gymnasium, library, or multipurpose room.
- Arrange artwork displays using easels, display panels, or wall-mounted frames to showcase pieces effectively.
- Create informational labels for each artwork, including the artist’s name, title of the piece, medium, and any relevant descriptions or inspirations.
- Host an opening reception for the art exhibit, inviting attendees to view the artwork, meet the artists, and enjoy refreshments.
- Offer artwork for sale through silent bidding, fixed-price sales, or online galleries, with proceeds benefiting the school’s art program.
Read-a-Thon
- Set a timeframe for the Read-a-Thon and communicate it to students and parents.
- Create pledge forms or online platforms for participants to collect pledges.
- Offer incentives such as prizes for the top readers or classes with the most participation.
- Provide reading logs or trackers for students to record their progress.
- Host special reading events or guest speakers to keep students motivated throughout the Read-a-Thon.
Movie Night
- Select popular, family-friendly movies suitable for the audience.
- Arrange for a suitable venue and equipment for screening the movie.
- Promote the event through flyers, social media, and school announcements.
- Set ticket prices and consider offering discounted rates for families or bulk purchases.
- Organize concession stands offering popcorn, candy, and drinks to enhance the movie experience.
Themed Dress Days
- Plan a calendar of themed dress days for the school year.
- Communicate the themes to students and parents well in advance.
- Encourage participation through posters, announcements, and classroom discussions.
- Collect donations or entry fees from students who wish to participate in each themed dress day.
- Recognize and celebrate the best-dressed students or classes during each themed event.
Cooking Classes
- Secure a suitable venue with kitchen facilities for hosting the cooking classes.
- Determine the themes or recipes for each class based on student interests and dietary preferences.
- Advertise the classes through school newsletters, social media, and parent-teacher associations.
- Set registration fees to cover the cost of ingredients and instructor fees.
- Provide participants with recipe cards or handouts to take home after each class.
Car Wash
- Choose a location with easy access and ample space for washing cars.
- Gather supplies such as soap, sponges, hoses, and buckets.
- Recruit volunteers to help with washing cars, drying, and directing traffic.
- Advertise the car wash through signage, social media, and word-of-mouth.
- Set prices based on vehicle size and desired services (e.g., exterior wash, interior vacuuming).
Community Yard Sale
- Set a date and location for the yard sale, ideally on a weekend with good weather.
- Promote the event through neighborhood flyers, social media groups, and online classifieds.
- Collect donations of gently used items from students, parents, and community members.
- Organize items into categories and price them competitively for sale.
- Recruit volunteers to help with setup, sales, and cleanup on the day of the yard sale.
Bingo Night
- Secure a venue large enough to accommodate multiple bingo tables and participants.
- Obtain bingo equipment including bingo cards, daubers, and a caller.
- Set a schedule for different bingo games and determine prize categories.
- Advertise the event through flyers, social media, and announcements.
- Sell bingo cards and additional game packs at the door, as well as snacks and drinks during the event.
Pancake Breakfast
- Arrange for a suitable venue with kitchen facilities and dining space.
- Secure donations or discounts from local suppliers for pancake mix, syrup, and toppings.
- Recruit volunteers to help with cooking, serving, and cleanup.
- Set ticket prices to cover the cost of food and generate additional funds for the school.
- Promote the pancake breakfast through flyers, school newsletters, and social media channels.
Plant Sale
- Partner with local nurseries or garden centers to obtain a variety of plants for sale.
- Set up a dedicated area at the school or another community space for the plant sale.
- Price plants competitively and provide information on care instructions.
- Advertise the sale through signage, social media, and community newsletters.
- Offer additional products such as gardening tools, pots, and accessories to complement plant
Cookbook Sale
- Collect recipes from students, parents, teachers, and staff, emphasizing a variety of cuisines and dietary preferences.
- Organize the recipes into categories such as appetizers, main dishes, desserts, and beverages.
- Design and layout the cookbook, incorporating photos, anecdotes, and cooking tips to enhance its appeal.
- Print copies of the cookbook through a reputable printing service or local print shop.
- Set prices for the cookbooks, considering production costs and desired profit margins.
- Promote the cookbook sale through pre-orders, social media, and community events.
- Offer incentives such as bundled deals or personalized editions to encourage sales.
Middle School Fundraising Ideas
Sports Tournament
- Promote the event to a broader audience through various channels such as social media, flyers, and local newspapers.
- Organize logistics such as equipment, referees, and first aid services.
- Arrange for awards or trophies for winning teams and participants.
Trivia Night
- Advertise the event well in advance to attract participants and sponsors.
- Choose a date and venue for the event, ensuring it accommodates the expected number of participants.
- Create trivia questions or themes relevant to your school community.
- Recruit volunteers to serve as hosts, scorekeepers, and runners during the event.
- Secure prizes for winning teams or individuals.
- Advertise the event through school channels, social media, and community bulletin boards to attract participants.
Sponsorship Program
- Develop sponsorship packages outlining the benefits and exposure for potential sponsors.
- Identify local businesses or organizations that align with your school’s values and initiatives.
- Reach out to potential sponsors through personalized pitches or meetings to discuss partnership opportunities.
- Provide sponsors with marketing materials and recognition during school events and activities.
- Maintain relationships with sponsors through regular communication and updates on the impact of their support.
Recycling Drive
- Determine the scope and goals of the recycling drive, including the types of materials to be collected.
- Promote the drive through school announcements, newsletters, and flyers to encourage participation.
- Set up collection points in convenient locations around the school or community.
- Educate participants on proper recycling practices and guidelines.
- Coordinate transportation and delivery of collected materials to recycling centers or facilities.
Custom Merchandise
- Design merchandise that reflects school spirit and appeals to students, parents, and alumni.
- Research suppliers or vendors to produce high-quality and affordable custom items.
- Create an online store or sales platform to showcase and sell merchandise to a wider audience.
- Promote the merchandise through school events, social media, and word of mouth to increase sales.
- Track inventory and sales to optimize marketing strategies and product offerings.
Obstacle Course Challenge
- Plan and design the obstacle course, considering factors such as safety and accessibility.
- Secure a suitable location for the event, ensuring there is enough space for the course and spectators.
- Recruit volunteers to assist with course setup, supervision, and participant registration.
- Advertise the challenge through social media, school announcements, and community bulletin boards to attract participants.
- Provide water stations, first aid, and restroom facilities for participants and spectators.
Karaoke Evening
- Choose a venue with audiovisual equipment suitable for karaoke performances.
- Create a song list with a variety of genres and popular hits to appeal to a broad audience.
- Promote the event through flyers, social media, and announcements to encourage participation.
- Arrange for equipment rental or borrow from volunteers to minimize costs.
- Offer refreshments and snacks for sale to enhance the karaoke experience.
Parent-Child Dance
Strengthen family bonds with a Parent-Child Dance. Sell tickets for an evening of dancing and fun, creating lasting memories for students and parents alike. Tip: Offer dance lessons or workshops leading up to the event to ensure everyone feels confident and comfortable on the dance floor. Action point: Create a festive atmosphere with music, decorations, and refreshments to make the event memorable.
- Select a theme and venue for the dance that appeals to both parents and children.
- Coordinate with local DJs or musicians to provide music and entertainment for the event.
- Create a ticketing system for entry and consider offering discounts for families purchasing multiple tickets.
- Decorate the venue with themed decorations and provide a photo booth for memorable snapshots.
- Arrange for refreshments, snacks, and seating areas for attendees to relax and socialize.
Ice Cream Social
- Source ice cream from local vendors or suppliers and arrange for delivery or pickup.
- Set up serving stations with a variety of ice cream flavors and toppings for attendees to choose from.
- Advertise the event through school channels, social media, and community newsletters to attract participants.
- Recruit volunteers to help with setup, serving, and cleanup during the event.
- Provide seating areas and entertainment options such as music or games for attendees to enjoy.
Craft Fair
- Secure a venue with ample space for vendors to set up booths and displays.
- Recruit local artisans, crafters, and students to participate as vendors in the fair.
- Create a layout or map of the fair to guide attendees and highlight featured vendors.
- Advertise the fair through social media, local newspapers, and community bulletin boards to attract visitors.
- Offer hands-on crafting activities or workshops for attendees to participate in during the fair.
Fitness Challenge
Inspire healthy habits with a Fitness Challenge. Participants can commit to a fitness goal and collect pledges based on their performance or participation, promoting physical activity while raising funds. Tip: Offer incentives or rewards for reaching fitness milestones, such as gift cards or fitness-related prizes, to motivate participants. Action point: Offer incentives or rewards for reaching milestones to motivate participants and encourage healthy competition.
- Define specific fitness goals for participants to strive for during the challenge, such as running a certain distance or completing a set number of workouts.
- Create a registration process for participants to sign up for the challenge and track their progress.
- Promote the challenge through school newsletters, social media, and fitness-related organizations to attract participants.
- Provide resources and support for participants, such as workout plans, nutrition tips, and motivational messages.
- Recognize and reward participants who achieve their fitness goals, such as certificates, medals, or prizes.
Spelling Bee
- Develop a list of spelling words for participants to study and practice leading up to the event.
- Establish clear rules and guidelines for the spelling bee, including rounds, time limits, and scoring criteria.
- Recruit qualified judges or volunteers to oversee the spelling bee and ensure fairness and accuracy.
- Promote the event through school announcements, flyers, and word-of-mouth to encourage participation.
- Provide incentives or rewards for participants, such as trophies, certificates, or book vouchers, to recognize their spelling achievements.
Book Sale
Promote literacy with a Book Sale. Collect gently used books from the community and host a sale, providing affordable reading options while supporting your school’s programs. Tip: Organize book-themed activities or storytime sessions during the sale to attract families and encourage them to explore different genres and authors. Action point: Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and decorations.
- Collect donated books from students, parents, and community members to build inventory for the sale.
- Organize books by genre or category to make browsing and shopping easier for attendees.
- Set up tables or shelves to display books attractively and provide space for browsing.
- Advertise the sale through school newsletters, social media, and community events to attract book lovers.
- Offer special promotions or discounts, such as buy-one-get-one-free or bundle deals, to encourage sales.
Coffee Morning
Start the day right with a Coffee Morning. Invite parents and community members for a morning of coffee and pastries, with proceeds benefiting school programs and activities. Tip: Partner with local coffee shops or bakeries to provide a variety of refreshments and attract more attendees. Action point: Plan engaging activities such as raffles or silent auctions to increase participation and fundraising.
- Source coffee, pastries, and other refreshments from local vendors or suppliers for the event.
- Arrange for volunteers to set up serving stations, brew coffee, and replenish supplies throughout the morning.
- Create a welcoming atmosphere with cozy seating areas, background music, and themed decorations.
- Promote the event through school newsletters, social media, and word-of-mouth to attract attendees.
- Provide opportunities for attendees to mingle, socialize, and learn more about school programs and initiatives.
Tie-Dye T-shirt Event
- Purchase plain white T-shirts in various sizes and quantities for participants to tie-dye.
- Set up dyeing stations with protective coverings, gloves, and a variety of dye colors for participants to choose from.
- Provide instructions or tutorials on different tie-dye techniques, such as spiral, bullseye, or crumple patterns.
- Promote the event through school announcements, social media, and flyers to encourage participation.
- Offer additional activities or entertainment, such as music or games, to enhance the tie-dye experience for participants.
High School Fundraising Ideas
Charity Gala
- Secure sponsorships from local businesses or individuals to offset event costs and maximize fundraising potential.
- Curate an elegant venue with suitable decor and ambiance to enhance the gala experience.
- Promote the event through various channels, including social media, email newsletters, and local publications.
- Arrange for entertainment such as live music or performances to engage attendees and create a memorable atmosphere.
- Provide opportunities for networking and socializing to encourage donations and support for your school’s initiatives.
Battle of the Bands
- Partner with local music venues or radio stations to promote the event and attract a larger audience.
- Coordinate with bands to ensure smooth logistics, including equipment setup, soundcheck, and performance schedules.
- Offer prizes or recognition for winning bands to incentivize participation and competition.
- Create a vibrant atmosphere with stage lighting, sound effects, and merchandise booths to enhance the concert experience.
- Utilize social media platforms and event websites to advertise and sell tickets in advance
Auction
- Curate a diverse selection of items to appeal to different interests and budgets, including experiences, memorabilia, and unique gifts.
- Develop a comprehensive catalog or online platform for showcasing auction items and accepting bids.
- Recruit volunteers to assist with event logistics, including registration, bid monitoring, and item delivery.
- Implement effective auctioneer techniques to encourage bidding and drive up prices for valuable items.
- Express gratitude to donors, sponsors, and attendees for their contributions and support.
Virtual Fundraiser
- Choose a digital platform or fundraising software that supports online auctions, crowdfunding campaigns, or virtual events.
- Develop engaging content, including videos, testimonials, and impact stories, to inspire donations and support for your school’s initiatives.
- Leverage social media platforms, email newsletters, and website banners to promote the virtual fundraiser and reach a broader audience.
- Offer incentives or rewards for online donors, such as exclusive merchandise, virtual shoutouts, or recognition on social media.
- Provide real-time updates and progress reports to donors to demonstrate the impact of their contributions and encourage continued support.
International Food Festival
- Collaborate with local ethnic communities, restaurants, and cultural organizations to showcase authentic cuisines from around the world.
- Designate food booths or stations for each participating country or region, featuring traditional dishes, snacks, and beverages.
- Organize cultural performances, demonstrations, or workshops to complement the culinary experience and engage attendees.
- Promote the event through multicultural networks, social media platforms, and community events to attract a diverse audience.
- Provide opportunities for attendees to learn about different cultures, traditions, and culinary practices while supporting your school’s initiatives.
Alumni Event
- Reach out to alumni networks, associations, and social media groups to invite former students and graduates to the event.
- Create a program or agenda that includes networking opportunities, guest speakers, and recognition for distinguished alumni achievements.
- Offer guided tours or campus visits to showcase recent developments, facilities upgrades, and academic programs.
- Incorporate fundraising activities such as silent auctions, raffles, or alumni giving campaigns to support your school’s initiatives.
- Express appreciation to alumni for their continued support and contributions to the school community.
Parents’ Night Out
- Partner with local childcare providers, daycare centers, or certified caregivers to offer supervised childcare services during the event.
- Plan engaging activities and entertainment for children, such as games, crafts, movies, or storytelling sessions.
- Promote the event to parents through school newsletters, parent-teacher associations, and social media channels to increase attendance.
- Create a safe and welcoming environment for children, including designated play areas, age-appropriate activities, and trained staff or volunteers.
- Provide regular updates and communication to parents regarding event logistics, schedule, and safety protocols to ensure peace of mind.
Escape Room Challenge
- Design and build immersive escape room scenarios with challenging puzzles, clues, and storylines that align with the theme of the fundraiser.
- Recruit volunteers or staff members to serve as game masters or facilitators to guide participants through the escape room experience.
- Advertise the event through social media, email newsletters, and word-of-mouth referrals to attract puzzle enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
- Offer flexible booking options, including individual tickets, group packages, and exclusive sessions for corporate teams or private parties.
- Incorporate elements of competition, teamwork, and problem-solving to enhance the overall experience and encourage repeat participation.
Lecture Series
- Identify relevant topics, themes, or speakers that align with the interests, needs, and priorities of your school community.
- Reach out to experts, scholars, professionals, or thought leaders in various fields to invite them as guest speakers for the lecture series.
- Schedule lecture dates, times, and locations that accommodate the availability and preferences of both speakers and attendees.
- Promote the lecture series through school communication channels, community organizations, and academic networks to attract a diverse audience.
- Provide opportunities for audience interaction, discussion, and Q&A sessions to engage attendees and foster intellectual exchange
Mini Golf Tournament
- Secure a suitable location for the mini-golf course, either on school grounds or at a nearby facility, and obtain any necessary permits or permissions.
- Design and set up the mini-golf course, incorporating creative obstacles, challenges, and themes to enhance the playing experience.
- Recruit volunteers to assist with event logistics, including registration, scorekeeping, and course maintenance throughout the tournament.
- Promote the tournament through school newsletters, social media platforms, and local community channels to attract participants and spectators.
- Offer sponsorship opportunities for local businesses or organizations to sponsor individual holes, provide prizes, or support event expenses.
Flash Mob
- Coordinate rehearsals and choreography sessions for participants to learn and practice the flash mob routine in advance of the event.
- Select a high-traffic location or venue for the flash mob performance, ensuring visibility and accessibility for spectators and participants.
- Publicize the flash mob event through social media campaigns, teaser videos, and community announcements to generate anticipation and excitement.
- Provide clear instructions and guidelines for participants regarding attire, timing, and logistical details leading up to the flash mob performance.
- Capture high-quality video footage and photographs of the flash mob performance to share on social media, school websites, and local news outlets.
Gardening Day
- Identify areas on school grounds or in the surrounding community that would benefit from landscaping, gardening, or beautification efforts.
- Gather necessary gardening tools, equipment, and materials, such as soil, plants, seeds, and mulch, to support the gardening activities.
- Recruit volunteers, including students, parents, faculty, and community members, to participate in planting, weeding, and landscaping tasks.
- Provide guidance and instruction on proper gardening techniques, plant care, and sustainable landscaping practices during the event.
- Celebrate the results of the gardening day with a community gathering or appreciation ceremony, showcasing the collective effort and impact achieved.
Comedy Night
- Research and book local comedians or comedy acts to perform at the comedy night event, ensuring diverse styles and audience appeal.
- Set up the venue with appropriate seating, lighting, and sound equipment to create a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere for attendees.
- Promote the comedy night through social media, email newsletters, and community bulletin boards to attract comedy enthusiasts and supporters.
- Coordinate concessions, refreshments, and merchandise sales to complement the comedy performances and generate additional revenue.
- Create opportunities for audience interaction, such as Q&A sessions or audience participation games, to enhance engagement and enjoyment.
Fashion Show
- Recruit student models to showcase clothing and accessories during the fashion show, emphasizing diversity, inclusivity, and body positivity.
- Collaborate with local boutiques, fashion designers, and brands to secure clothing donations, sponsorships, or discounts for the fashion show.
- Coordinate hair stylists, makeup artists, and backstage volunteers to assist with model preparation and runway coordination.
- Designate a runway or stage area for the fashion show, ensuring adequate lighting, sound, and seating arrangements for attendees.
- Incorporate entertainment elements, such as live music, dance performances, or guest appearances, to complement the fashion show and enhance the overall experience.
Movie under the stars
A “Movie Under the Stars” fundraiser is a fun way to spend any summers night. Here’s how to make it a success:
- Pick a large outdoor space like a park or school field.
- Ensure you have the rights to show the movie publicly.
- Arrange for a good-quality projector and sound system, and test them before the event.
- Offer tickets and concessions like popcorn and drinks to raise extra funds.
- Ask attendees to bring blankets or chairs, or rent seating options.
- Prepare for bad weather with a backup date or an indoor location.
athletic department fundraising ideas
Sports Gear Sale
Athletic Clinics or Camps
Team Sponsorship Program
Sports Tournaments or Competitions
Athletic Booster Club Memberships
After school program fundraising ideas
Themed Fundraising Events
Parent-Child Activity Workshops
Online Auctions That Are Themed
Community Service Projects
Sponsorship Opportunities
Family Runs In Costumes
Art Shows or Performances
Parent Education Seminars
Crowdfunding Campaigns
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens next? Lets pick out some no cost fundraising ideas together.
We know you could choose any school fundraising company, like an abc fundraising or even a gofundme for instance. Yet we believe we can help you to reach your goals because of the specific experience we bring to the table. Furthermore, our customer service is second to none. This means you get personalized attention. In other words you are not simply another number. You do matter to us.
You might be wondering…
But what about selling tickets or charging a fee for raffles, masks, scratch card tickets, a card fundraiser or peer to peer fundraising? Our program nicely dovetails with any other events you like to have each year. For you see, most school programs need to rely on several fundraising campaigns during the year.
So, why not give us a chance to see if this works? Pick up the phone and let’s talk. Give us an opportunity to show you how we can help your school. Lets find the perfect fundraising idea for your school.
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