Fall into Fundraising
Fall is here. The bad news…snow and ice are lurking right around the corner. The good news…the holidays are fast approaching and that means it’s the perfect time to fundraise! This is a fantastic time of year to tap into the seasonal spirit and have some fun doing it. Here are some of my favorite ideas that are great for kids and adults alike:
Pumpkin carving contest– Stock up on pumpkins and carving kits (local farms may be willing to donate pumpkins and carving kits can usually be picked up for a minimal charge at craft and discount stores). Charge each contestant an entrance fee and sell cider or hot chocolate during the event. You can even combine this with a pumpkin themed bake sale.
A good old-fashioned pie eating contest– Ask local grocery stores or bakeries to donate pies. Charge each contestant an entrance fee, and if you’d like charge a small fee to spectators. This is definitely a fun event to watch!
Rake-a-thon- Ask homeowners for a suggested donation and in exchange volunteers will rake their leaves. (Check with local schools, and Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, to see if they would be willing to volunteer).
Business cards– Many clients print their own business cards and hand them out wherever they can. Taking the kids out trick or treating? Hand out cards along the way. Grabbing coffee in the morning? Leave a stack on the counter. Picking up some groceries? Check with management to see if you can post one to their store bulletin board. There are so many inventive ways to tell your story and spread the word about NEADS!
Collection jars- Ask local businesses if you can place collection jars at their front desks and checkout counters. Attach a picture of yourself or contact me for the NEADS logo. Decorate jars in any way you’d like-jack o lanterns, Pilgrims or turkeys, candy cane stripes, snowman or snowflakes. Make it your own and make it eye catching.
Candles, cookies & popcorn– Check out ways to fundraise by selling your favorite products. Many companies have fundraising programs where you sell their goods and they give you a portion of the proceeds. This can be a terrific way to raise money with minimal effort.
The Popcorn Factory Fundraising
These are just a few examples of the many different ways by which clients fundraise for their NEADS Service Dog. Be creative, choose ideas that appeal to you, and set your goals high. There is no limit to what you can do! And most importantly…have a safe and happy holiday season!
