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How To Run A Successful Fundraiser
Organizing Your Group
Would you agree that it's easier complete a job when you have a blueprint to follow? Yes?
Also, the exact opposite maybe true which brings us to the old axiom:
"Fail to plan, plan to fail"
Usually most groups avoid planning because they view it as difficult or tedious or may be in a rush to get going. Don't
let this happen!! What appears to be unpleasant far exceeds the dismal results you will have without a plan.
Fortunately, the exact opposite is true when you have the necessary tools at your disposal.
That is why this report was written. To give you an idea of how easy it is to plan your fundraiser and to stay focused
on your goals.
Shall we begin?
First of all, I cannot stress this point enough: You need to know why you want to fundraise. You do this by answering
fhe following questions:
Do you need to raise money?
Answer the above question and you will have the source of your group's motivation and the community's effort to help
you acquire the funds you need.
What will you do with the money you raise?
Find out what you need. Survey those who are active participants within the your organization or group.
Example: The PTA/PTO may want to ask teachers what is needed in the classrooms or administrators what is needed in the
school as a whole. Then choose from the list of items that appear in the majority or allow the fundraising committee to
decide amongst the available choices.
How much will you need?
This is where you create a goal.
For instance, if your goal is to raise money to purchase computer equipment, research all the costs involved
(hardware, software, installation, etc.).
Also, don't forget the annual costs of maintenance and repair if you are purchasing equipment.
Who will be your fundraising personnel responsible for:
- Choosing a fundraiser
- Making sure order forms get to the sellers
- Getting information out to the public about your fundraiser
- Collecting orders
- Tallying orders
- Counting Money
- Depositing Money
- Handling delivery
How are you going to raise the money?
Will you use the direct sales approach? Brochure sales such as cookie dough, cheesecakes, candles, etc.
What about community service activities? Auctions, car washes, leaf raking, concessions at concerts or sporting
events, etc.
As you can see, getting organized is not that difficult, is it? Once you have answered the questions relevant to your
group, you are on your way to earning those profits you desire.
Click here to read other articles by Keith Smith.
Click here to read other articles by Rema Smith.
Copyright © 2004 Keith and Rema Smith. All rights reserved. Keith and Rema educate schools, sports teams, clubs, youth groups, etc. regarding fundraising. Visit their website for more information, or contact them via email or phone: 703-691-8863. Reprinted with permission.
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