by Holle Abee

Created on: May 10, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

As a retired teacher, I've been involved with many school fundraisers. From my experience, I've learned that success often depends not only on the product being offered, but also on the timing of the event. Getting the students actively involved, along with the support of the administration, are also crucial.

Our 5 best school fundraiser ideas:

Renaissance Festival: This is a wonderful high school fundraiser that I created and organized every November. Students, parents, and community members were invited. Each club and organization had a booth that sold food, unicorns, wooden swords and shields, "dragon egg" geodes, perfumes, Robin Hood hats, and runic writings. Other groups performed magic acts, did plam readings, operated a jumping castle, held "jousting tournaments," did chain mail demonstrations, and performed acts from Shakespeare. Many of the students dressed in period costumes, too, and the band and chorus performed madrigals and played tunes from the era. Every club made a lot of money, and the students learned while having fun!

Discount cards: This idea works great for any school, and it's a great elementary school fundraiser because it's easy for the kids to participate. Just get area restaurants and businesses to agree to some sort of discount for cardholders, like a 10% disount, a free drink with the purchase of a meal, or a buy-one-get-one-free deal. Businesses eagerly participate becasue it increases their sales, and buyers purchase the cards because they save money. It's a win-win situation for everyone! Offering a prize for the student who sells the most cards is a great incentive, as is holding a pizza party for the class that sells the most cards.

Smoked Boston butts: Everyone loves to eat, and by offering these delicious products, available the day before Thanksgiving or another holiday, is another great fundraiser idea.
Our agriculture students do all the cooking, and buyers have a ready-made meat to serve their guests.

Cheesecakes: Our school sells cheesecakes just prior to Christmas and Thanksgiving, and the response has been enormous! The school makes a deal with the cheesecake company, who sends brochures and order forms that list the prices and descriptions of different flavors. These mouth-watering treats almost sell themselves, and they provide a wonderful shortcut to buyers looking for an easy dessert for the holidays. This event can easily be adapted to a "school fundraiser orders online," too!

Christmas gift basket raffle: This is an easy way to raise money for your school, and it's all profit! Just visit local businesses and explain your idea. Most every business will contribute something to support education. Ususal items include a smoked ham, candy, special ornaments, breakfast sausage, cheeses, grocery store gift certificates, fruit, nuts, candles, Christmas napkins, holiday soaps, and other goodies. One year a local tree farm even donated a certificate for a fresh Christmas tree!

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