Schools need lots of money for all kinds of things. Many imaginative school fundraising ideas exist, whether for new playground equipment or to supplement the school’s endowment.
School fundraisers are also great ways to teach students leadership skills and encourage philanthropy. To maximize the impact of your campaign, promote matching gift programs.
It’s Easy
Rather than relying on traditional fundraising methods such as selling candy bars or cookie dough, crowdfunding can help schools raise money for events and projects with less hassle. It also allows teachers and students to lead, promoting ownership and enthusiasm for school fundraisers.
Be specific with your crowdfunding goals and projects. Studies show that donors are more likely to donate when they can see where their donations are going. For example, if you are raising funds for new uniforms for the basketball team, showcase photos of your players in their future uniforms to boost donation numbers.
Make the campaign fun and engaging by challenging your supporters to participate in a unique challenge. For instance, ask a teacher to shave their head or your principal to host an embarrassing talent show in exchange for hitting a donation goal. It encourages participation and teaches children the importance of giving back to those in need. The earlier they learn to cultivate compassion, the better!
It’s Effective
In addition to the financial benefits, school fundraising is a great project-based learning opportunity that teaches students about money skills, marketing, communications, and creativity. Middle school students, in particular, are a good age to engage in crowdfunding activities because they enjoy the challenge of solving real-life problems and have an aptitude for learning through doing.
Compared to traditional fundraisers such as candy bars, cookie dough sales, or auctions, crowdfunding is a much more engaging and healthy way for teachers and students to raise funds. Fun run fundraisers, reading challenges, and community serve-a-thons are perfect examples of school fundraisers that get kids active, teach compassion, and create a culture of giving.
Peer-to-peer (P2P) crowdfunding is an excellent way for public schools, private schools, and universities to maximize donations. Crowdfunding can exponentially multiply the money raised by enabling students and teachers to easily share their campaign links with friends, family, colleagues, and social media followers.
It’s Affordable
School fundraising provides financial support that helps supplement budgets and fund projects or programs a school might otherwise be unable to afford. It also promotes community engagement and increases school pride.
While traditional fundraisers like a car wash or bake sale can cost your school money, crowdfunding is an affordable and efficient alternative. School fundraising campaigns can reach supporters worldwide without paying for marketing or event space by leveraging social media and other online channels.
Crowdfunding is also a great way to raise funds for teacher professional development. Teachers need access to cutting-edge classroom technology and resources to improve their teaching skills, but the school budget only sometimes covers these expenses. Using a crowdfunding platform with donation-matching programs can boost the impact of every contribution. Incentives like a t-shirt or hat can encourage more significant donations and reinforce how their gift will be used.
It’s Fun
A successful school fundraiser requires a team of volunteers to create, plan and execute an event or project. It also needs a clear goal and timeline so donors can feel involved throughout the process. It’s essential to communicate regularly with donors (current or potential) to build a relationship, encouraging them to continue working together in the future.
Perks are an effective tool in a crowdfunding campaign because they appeal to people’s selfish and philanthropic motivations. They can take the form of pre-release products, services, or events. For example, host a student art exhibition and sell tickets to attend; organize a rubber duck race and offer a prize for the winning team; or hold a spa night with local nail technicians and hair stylists who provide their services for a small entrance fee.
Crowdfunding campaigns and events can be fun for students to learn about money skills, marketing, and communications while helping their community and giving back. Moreover, it’s a great way to help students appreciate how lucky they are to have the resources and opportunities.
