Make fundraising FUN!
Every team needs new shoes, equipment, jerseys, warm ups and more, but how do we continue to fund those things without it costing families an arm and a leg? Fundraising is the answer. There are plate sales, candy bars and more but how do you creatively raise funds.
Being a kid of the 80’s I believe the hard work of the youth is always a great place to start. Yard work and car washes are always great place to start. With wonderful weather in Hawaii, car washes are easy and fun. Partnering with a commercial car wash is better for the environment and can even be a tax benefit for the business if they are donating back to the team as well. Then there are candy, popcorn and other junk food sales which seem to help the food company more than the franchise.
Plate sales, BBQs, Musubi and bake sales are my FAVORITES! I am not going to deny that sharing home cooked meals and good food are the best ways to raise money within the community. I think these will always be successful especially when the food is amazing. Finding ways to incorporate the kids in the process makes it even more rewarding and special. Passing on recipes, learning wrapping skills and time spent with elders during food prep is a great experience for the athletes as well. Finding a local business where they are okay with your kids selling your bake goods outside.
One of the crazier ideas I see working a lot are the raffles. Getting larger business and even smaller businesses to donate services to your organization. Does a parent or grandparent own a rental? Does someone in the organization operate a restaurant? Does a local car lot have extra inventory? Imagine winning a $10,000 car off a $100 raffle. Imagine getting a weekend in Maui from a $50 raffle. Imaging enjoying a local waterfront meal after entering a $25 raffle. These are all legitimate ways to get people to buy a raffle and long term enjoy a great prize.
Another great idea is creating a whole entertainment experience. Comedians, singers, painting and even karaoke paired with food makes for a better event and bigger community reach. You could still host said raffle or auction at your entertainment event. There are tons of artists locally that would benefit from a small fee and you would still be able to profit off of what is left over. A huge paint and sip is another idea that brings together community and helps support local artists.
Dance, barbecue and card game competitions are also a way to generate funds and create a whole family and community event to bring everyone together. I know we do so many things, but just reminded you all to be creative in your planning of fundraising events. Imagine being able to bring the community together, create long term memories and generate the funds necessary to make your team or franchise better.