As summer draws to a close and the excitement of a new school year begins to build, it’s the perfect time to start planning back to school fundraisers. Fundraising is essential for supporting school programs, activities, and resources that enrich students’ educational experiences. Fortunately, there are many easy and effective back to school fundraiser ideas that can help you raise money with minimal effort. Here are some creative and engaging ideas to kickstart your school year fundraising efforts.
1. School Supply Kits
One of the most practical back to school fundraiser ideas is to sell school supply kits. These kits can be customized for different grade levels and include all the essential items students need. Partner with a supplier who can provide the kits at a discounted rate, then sell them to parents at a markup. This not only saves parents the hassle of shopping for supplies but also raises funds for your school.
2. Spirit Wear Sales
Boost school spirit and raise funds by selling school-branded merchandise like t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and bags. Work with a local printer to create custom designs that showcase your school’s mascot and colors. Promote the spirit wear through school newsletters, social media, and during school events. Online stores like Custom Ink or Bonfire can help you set up an easy-to-manage online store for sales.
3. Car Wash
A classic and effective fundraiser, a car wash requires minimal setup and supplies. Gather a group of enthusiastic volunteers, and choose a location with high visibility and access to water. Promote the event through local community boards, social media, and school newsletters. Charge a set fee per car or accept donations for the service.
4. Sneaker Drive Fundraiser
A Sneaker Drive is an easy, no-cost back to school fundraiser where you have people bring in their gently used sneakers to be recycled. Best of all, there is an organization called GotSneakers that does all the hard parts for you! Just take a minute to sign up here, and they will send you everything you need to get started
GotSneakers will supply the collection bags, marketing materials, and shipping labels for sending in the sneakers you collect. Once they receive your collection bag, they will send you an e-check for all eligible sneakers you sent in! That’s all there is to it!
5. Fun Run or Walkathon
Organize a fun run or walkathon where students gather pledges for each lap or mile they complete. This event promotes physical activity and school spirit while raising funds. Choose a safe route around the school or a local park and provide refreshments for participants. Encourage students to wear school colors and create a festive atmosphere with music and decorations.
6. Movie Night
Host a family-friendly movie night at the school gym or auditorium. Charge an admission fee and sell concessions like popcorn, candy, and drinks. Choose a popular or classic film that will appeal to a wide audience. Promote the event through flyers, social media, and school announcements to attract a large crowd.
7. Yard Sale
Organize a community yard sale where families can donate gently used items to be sold. Set up tables in the school parking lot or gymnasium and price items reasonably. Promote the yard sale through local community boards, social media, and school newsletters. This event not only raises funds but also helps families declutter their homes.
8. Raffle
A raffle is an exciting way to raise money with the chance to win great prizes. Solicit donations from local businesses or school families for prizes such as gift baskets, gift cards, or event tickets. Sell raffle tickets at school events, through students, and online. Ensure you promote the raffle widely and draw the winners during a well-attended event to maximize ticket sales.
9. Talent Show
Showcase the talents of your students and teachers by hosting a talent show. Charge an admission fee and sell refreshments during the event. Encourage participants to invite family and friends to attend. Promote the talent show through flyers, social media, and school announcements to ensure a good turnout.
10. School Carnival
Plan a school carnival with games, food, and entertainment. Charge an admission fee or sell tickets for individual activities. Set up booths with classic carnival games, inflatables, face painting, and more. Partner with local food vendors or ask parents to donate food items for a concession stand. Promote the carnival widely to attract families from the school and community.
By implementing these easy back to school fundraiser ideas, you can effectively raise money to support your school’s programs and activities. The key to a successful fundraiser is engaging the school community, promoting the event widely, and providing opportunities for everyone to get involved. With a little creativity and effort, your back to school fundraisers can make a significant impact on your school’s success.