How To Run A Successful Fundraiser

This is the first article of a multi-part series on this topic.

Part One of this SPECIAL REPORT is about: Organizing Your Group

Would you agree that it's easier complete a job when you have a blueprint to follow? Yes?

Also, the exact opposite maybe true which brings us to the old axiom:

"Fail to plan, plan to fail"

Usually most groups avoid planning because they view it as difficult or tedious or may be in a rush to get going. Don't let this happen!! What appears to be unpleasant far exceeds the dismal results you will have without a plan.

Fortunately, the exact opposite is true when you have the necessary tools at your disposal.

That is why this report was written. To give you an idea of how easy it is to plan your fundraiser and to stay focused on your goals.

Shall we begin?

*First of all, I cannot stress this point enough: You need to know why you want to fundraise. You do this by answering the following questions:

1)Why do you need to raise money?

Answer the above question and you will have the source of your group's motivation and the community's effort to help you acquire the funds you need.

2)What will you do with the money you raise?

Find out what you need. Survey those who are active participants within the your organization or group.

Example: The PTA/PTO may want to ask teachers what is needed in the classrooms or administrators what is needed in the school as a whole. Then choose from the list of items that appear in the majority or allow the fundraising committee to decide amongst the available choices.

3)How much will you need? This is where you create a goal.

For instance, if your goal is to raise money to purchase computer equipment, research all the costs involved (hardware, software, installation, etc.).

Also,don't forget the annual costs of maintenance and repair if you are purchasing equipment.

4)Who will be your fundraising personnel responsible for:

1. Choosing a fundraiser

2. Making sure order forms get to the sellers

3. Getting information out to the public about your fundraiser

4. Collecting orders

5. Tallying orders

6. Counting Money

7. Depositing Money

8. Handling delivery

5)How are you going to raise the money?

Will you use the direct sales approach? Brochure sales such as cookie dough, cheesecakes, candles, etc.

What about community service activities? Auctions, car washes, leaf raking, concessions at concerts or sporting events, etc.

As you can see, getting organized is not that difficult, isn't it? Once you have answered the questions relevant to your group, you are on your way to earning those profits you desire which leads us to the topic of the next newsletter: Choosing A Fundraiser

Copyright 2004. All rights reserved

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated.

This is the Fundraising Connection newsletter which begins with the Free Special Report: How To Run A Successful Fundraiser.

About The Author

Keith and Rema Smith educate schools, sports teams, clubs, youth groups, etc. regarding fundraising. mailto: info@rhkfundraising.com,
703-691-8863, http://www.rhkfundraising.com

Authors: FREE newsletter: The Fundraising Connection and FREE BONUS SPECIAL REPORT: How to Run A Successful Fundraiser.

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