How To Run A Successful Fundraiser

This is the first article of a multi-part series oncreate a goal.
this topic.For instance, if your goal is to raise money to
Part One of this SPECIAL REPORT is about:purchase computer equipment, research all the
Organizing Your Groupcosts involved (hardware, software, installation,
Would you agree that it's easier complete a jobetc.).
when you have a blueprint to follow? Yes?Also,don't forget the annual costs of maintenance
Also, the exact opposite maybe true which bringsand repair if you are purchasing equipment.
us to the old axiom:4)Who will be your fundraising personnel
"Fail to plan, plan to fail"responsible for:
Usually most groups avoid planning because they
view it as difficult or tedious or may be in a rush1. Choosing a fundraiser
to get going. Don't let this happen!! What appears2. Making sure order forms get to the sellers
to be unpleasant far exceeds the dismal results3. Getting information out to the public about your
you will have without a plan.fundraiser
Fortunately, the exact opposite is true when you4. Collecting orders
have the necessary tools at your disposal.5. Tallying orders
That is why this report was written. To give you6. Counting Money
an idea of how easy it is to plan your fundraiser7. Depositing Money
and to stay focused on your goals.8. Handling delivery
Shall we begin?5)How are you going to raise the money?
*First of all, I cannot stress this point enough: YouWill you use the direct sales approach? Brochure
need to know why you want to fundraise. Yousales such as cookie dough, cheesecakes, candles,
do this by answering the following questions:etc.
1)Why do you need to raise money?What about community service activities?
Answer the above question and you will have theAuctions, car washes, leaf raking, concessions at
source of your group's motivation and theconcerts or sporting events, etc.
community's effort to help you acquire the fundsAs you can see, getting organized is not that
you need.difficult, isn't it? Once you have answered the
2)What will you do with the money you raise?questions relevant to your group, you are on
Find out what you need. Survey those who areyour way to earning those profits you desire
active participants within the your organization orwhich leads us to the topic of the next
group.newsletter: Choosing A Fundraiser
Example: The PTA/PTO may want to askCopyright 2004. All rights reserved
teachers what is needed in the classrooms orYou have permission to publish this article
administrators what is needed in the school as aelectronically or in print, free of charge, as long as
whole. Then choose from the list of items thatthe bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your
appear in the majority or allow the fundraisingpublication would be appreciated.
committee to decide amongst the availableThis is the Fundraising Connection newsletter
choices.which begins with the Free Special Report: How
3)How much will you need? This is where youTo Run A Successful Fundraiser.