Fundraising (101)

The first step in raising money and one of the most important steps you’ll take is choosing your fundraising program. To do this, you’ll need to review your group’s needs, goals and resources, as well as the many different types of programs that are available.

Tips for choosing the right program:

Assessing Your Needs and Resources

  1. List all of the expenses you hope to cover with the proceeds from your fundraiser. It can be anything, such as new sports equipment, travel expenses, new books, maintenance costs and repairs, etc.

  2. Add it all up to arrive at your fundraising goal.

  3. When will you need the money?

  4. List your fundraising resources: budget for products, number of members/volunteers, target market/donors, number and type of participants needed, available selling venues, other ongoing fundraising activities, etc.

Reviewing Programs

  • List all of the programs that meet your needs: (i.e. have the right profit potential, can be handled by your volunteer staff, and are within your budget.)

  • At this point, it’s a good idea to speak with a fundraising consultant about programs with no upfront costs, financing options and cost-free programs.

Making a Decision

  • Remember that you don’t have to choose just one. A good tip is to combine programs that compliment each other like Chocolate and Skratchers, Cookie Dough and Magazines, or Jerky and Candy.

  • Be sure to account for shipping times when you’re ready to place your order.

  • Review your needs and resources with your fundraising consultant before making the final decision.


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You really do, you just haven't met him yet.
Call (707) 669-0861 "and we will introduce ourselves."

We want to help you create the best fundraiser ever!