How to Run a Successful Fundraiser for Your Elementary School

If you’re involved with your parent-teacher group or simply looking to support your child’s school, organizing a fundraiser is a fantastic way to make a difference. This guide walks you through the steps to run a successful elementary school fundraiser, from setting goals to showing gratitude.

Set Your Goal and Timeframe

First, decide how much money you want to raise. Choose a target that’s ambitious but achievable–something that will motivate parents and students alike.

Next, pick a timeframe. Let’s say you want the fundraiser to culminate in a fun run at the end of May. Give yourself about three weeks for active fundraising, so you’ll have a start date.

Creating milestones is essential. Milestones are points during the fundraiser to tally up donations, both online and physical. I recommend setting milestone days on Wednesdays. This way, the school can remind parents to send in donations via text the night before.

A week before your official kickoff, send out a letter to parents explaining the fundraiser’s purpose. Highlight specific improvements the fundraiser will support, like school programs or resources. Be clear about how donations make a tangible impact—this helps parents see their contributions as investments in their child’s education.

Find Sponsors

Many local businesses are eager to support schools and some types of businesses are often more receptive than others. Real estate agents, for example, are typically very supportive and may be willing to make substantial contributions.

Although it’s an amazing feeling when a real estate mogul writes your school a massive check, don’t discount the value of small local businesses. In fact, you’d be surprised at how many families have a parent who works or even runs a small business. Many of these companies understand well the goal and the pressures that your parent teacher group navigates in order to improve the school experience.

When reaching out to sponsors, offer them something in return. Whether it’s their logo on the back of a t-shirt or a social media shoutout, think about ways to provide value for their support. Many sponsors will give purely because they understand your mission and know you’re operating on a shoestring budget–but it doesn’t hurt to find ways to show that you’re grateful for their contribution.

Create Incentives

Parents understand the importance of funding their child’s school, but kids may need a little extra motivation. Here are some great ways to keep students excited and engaged:

• Counting Day Prizes: Every milestone day, offer small rewards to any student who brings in a donation. Prizes can be simple, like lollipops, bouncy balls, or pencils. Many banks and colleges are willing to donate these types of items, so reach out.

• Raffles: Each time a student donates, they get entered into a raffle. Local businesses are often happy to donate prizes. Reach out to bookstores, trampoline parks, or ice cream shops. With just a little effort, you can secure a variety of prizes without spending money.

• Class Competitions: Encourage class spirit by organizing friendly competitions. For example, the first class to raise $300 might get a bingo party, while the top five classes earn a pizza party. Extra recess or an art session for the class with the most participation is another exciting reward.

End with a Celebration

When the fundraising period ends, it’s time to celebrate the hard work and contributions. This can be a school-wide event like a fun run, field day, or even a gym party on a Friday afternoon. It’s less about the type of event and more about acknowledging everyone’s efforts and creating a positive association with giving back.

Show Gratitude

After your fundraiser concludes, don’t forget to thank your sponsors. A simple thank you from the students is often more powerful than a formal letter. Have the kids create and sign thank you notes, and ensure each sponsor receives one. These heartfelt messages often end up displayed on the walls of local businesses, serving as a reminder of the community’s appreciation.

Wrapping up

Running a fundraiser for your child’s school can be incredibly rewarding, especially when the community rallies together. With clear goals, a bit of creativity, and a strong sense of gratitude, your fundraiser can make a lasting impact on the school and inspire a culture of giving for years to come.