Group Fundraising Tips & Ideas

Whoever you're fund raising for - there's over 100 easy ideas to help you on your way.

Few community groups can run on weekly contributions from their members - there's usually some additional equipment , transport or repairs that requires additional funds - so money will need to be raised from time to time.

Whether it's a cub scout troop that needs to raise fund for their annual camping trip, cheerleaders purchasing poms or safety mats for practice sessions or the local sports team needing new uniforms - here's a few ideas for you:-

1. Don't be afraid to ask friends and family - especially at peak times such as Christmas, when they are spending money on gifts anyway, why not get involved with one of the catalog companies and sell candles, Christmas wreaths or candy ? 
2. At other times of year, cookie dough or pizza fundraisers (especially popular for boys!) can go down a storm - having a "party" or "celebration" can be a good forum for getting these going - set yourself a target and reward individuals who go that bit farther to raise more money.
3. Simple sponsored events can work well, multiply the number of member by, say, $10, to get an idea of the minimum amount you might be able to raise.   Why not have some sponsored games - basketball, football, baseball - for a specific length of time, or number of games - with sponsorship payable for anyone staying the course.
4. A fifty/fifty raffle is where tickets are sold and half the proceeds go to you.  All you have to do is sell the tickets and the winner of the raffle splits the total amount with your group. The lucky winner receives 50% of the amount of ticket sales and your group gets to keep the other 50%.  Most people are happy to buy raffle tickets, most ages are happy to sell them (check that it's legal and safe in your area) and a few $1 tickets can add up to several hundred dollars if you've got a good team of individuals selling them.
5. Treasure Hunt - adults and kids love the fun of looking for and finding things!  A treasure hunt can be a great family activity, and can be a good fundraiser with each group paying an entrance fee to take part.  Get people to invite friends and neighbors too - the more the merrier!

For further information, check out our speciality ideas:-

• Boy scout fundraising ideas
  
  As a leader, you'll soon be involved in fundraising for your beavers, cubs or scouts ... here's a few simple ideas to get you started
• Cheerleading fundraising ideas for your fundraiser
  
  Leading a cheerleading team ? Here's some fundraiser suggestions to help you raise that much needed money for uniforms , travel & equipment
• Cub scout fundraising ideas for your fundraiser
  
  Raising funds for your local cubs can be rewarding for leaders and parents alike.
• Girl scout fundraising ideas
  
  Raising money for your local group of girls scouts needn't be taxing - here's a few ideas in addition to the traditional girl scout cookies to get you started
• Sport fundraiser ideas for your group
  
  Fund raising with sports ? Money making ideas for your teams ...
• Student Fundraisers
  
  Great student fundraising ideas for student councils, sororities & fraternities, raising money for charity with RAG week and resources for finding grants for college
• Youth group - ideas for your fundraising event
  
  Within Christian churches, youth group fundraisers and events, have been a common way for young people to have fun whilst raising much needed money to cover ongoing costs

Recommended Resources

101 Fundraising Ideas - get inspiration for creative ways to raise the money you need, over 100 tips to get you started 

"Fundraising for the Small Community" -

covers fundraising for capital projects, churches and grant writing.  Also includes real life examples, practical advice and dozens of useful resources.

"Fundraising on eBay" - Whether or not you have experience of eBay, learn how you can use this massive online marketplace to raise money for your cause.

Find tips for maximizing the value of donations and converting in-kind gifts into cash - quickly!

Get step-by-step instructions for planning a highly profitable fundraiser, managing inventory, recording feedback, and protecting your customers' personal information - using eBay really can be good for business.

Over 100 Fundraising Ideas - download our ebook full of ideas to get you started