Fundraising - Brookfield,IL

I despise fundraisers. They are a complete waste of classtime and I very much dislike turning my children into salespersons for some company so the school can get a teeny tiny percentage of the profits.

10-30% of the PROFIT margin isn't very much money at all, especially for the work and time put into the fundraiser.

Instead, I suggest this: Get together with the PTO/PTA and write a letter to parents. Outline the goal of the fundraiser, exactly WHAT the money will be spent on, and ask if they will make a direct contribution/donation to the cause.

If my sons came home with a well written letter, I knew what the money was being used for (the kids usually have NO IDEA what the money is being raised for), and was told 100% of my contribution would go towards the cause....I'd bust out my checkbook right there.

No cheap candy, no wrapping paper, no movie passes, no coupon cards, no cookie dough....just ask me to write a check for exactly what is needed. I'm there.

Call a specific theater near you and see if they will give you a deal if you buy a certain amount. Also, our area Chick-Fil-A's are amazing at fundraising. They can give you a cut of the profits from an event at their location. You don't do any work, people come if they want and there is no pressure to buy anything. If you don't want to support you simply don't go to the restaurant. My daughter's school did this and the place was packed with people. They also did it at a local frozen yogurt shop; however, it was very cold that day so I don't think it was as successful.

BJs. Costco maybe not sure. BJs for sure because I ought some.

Occasionally I see offers for discount movie tickets on the Group On and Living Social sites. Some companies also offer them as a employee benefit through the personnel department. I have also seen discounts given for large bulk purchases of tickets. You might ask the theater if they know of any discount programs. You could also ask if they might donate tickets to support the school, but they will probably need a letter on school/organization letterhead and a 501c3 number.