by Linda Sunkle-Pierucki

Created on: May 11, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

School fundraisers have developed a negative connotation in many circles, particularly among parents. The same old unwanted magazines, over-priced peanut clusters and undersized-sized candy bars show up every year, peddled to the same relatives, with over-burdened parents attempting to keep lists and money straight. A new twist, that of reward and punishment for children based on their sales, attempts to guilt-trip single-parent and lower-income families into spending the grocery money for unwanted items so their child will not be singled out. It's no longer safe for elementary schoolers to go door-to-door and sell to strangers, so the same relatives must buy several times a year. Certainly no one is happy with this.

There is a need for small business organizers in the school fundraising arena. A fundraising business will earn based on a small percentage of sales. First, all fund-raising must have an on-line component so that distant relatives and a wide spectrum of the community can participate with ease and at their convenience. An organizer who provides a simple webpage for each school's fundraising effort that is relatively easy to maintain can help lower the cost for non-profit groups. A little pre-planning with High School teachers can have needed fund-raising activities written into the curriculum and recruit enthusiastic high school students in the effort.

A Yahoo small business website can be put together quickly and cheaply. PayPal avoids the need to process credit cards. High School Business, graphics and Art classes can help develop the website and gain valuable skills, all the while making your job easier.

A great high school fund raiser is "Team Spirit Air fresheners" from GoodScents Fundraising provided by Goodwill Industries. Printed with the team logo, these even sell to high school kids, along with alumni and local fans. These are an inexpensive item which can be sold not only on-line but at sporting events, in the concession stand and on consignment in local stores and garner repeat sales.

http://www.goodscentsfundraising.com/

Rather than candy, Bar B Que sauce is a top seller and gives more perceived value for the price. At around $6 a bottle, sold on-line and through family sales, this provides an item families actually use and is great for elementary school fundraisers. Kids will enjoy helping Grandma enter her order on-line.

http://popsbbq.com/

Another popular item is the Tupperware fundraiser, with a special catalog, 40% profit and free shipping.

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