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7 cool school fundraising ideas

Put the fun back in school fundraising with these fresh ideas

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Originally published in Today's Parent January 2011

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We know, we know: The last thing you need is another bucket of cookie dough, and the kids have tossed back enough chocolate almonds to keep them hopped up for a month. Fundraising has become as much a part of school life as homework. The good news: The best money-raising ideas actually build a sense of community, as well as providing ready cash for school extras. Here are some fun and easy ways to get everyone involved:

Community game night Charge an entry fee for an evening of board games, with juice and cookies and donated or inexpensive prizes. Set a time limit, then have everyone switch tables. If your crowd is competitive, keep score and crown a champ. Tip: Make sure the games are age-appropriate, and opt for old favourites like Candy Land or Chutes and Ladders that most families already know how to play.

Dine the world Ask each family for a potluck dish consistent with their heritage and serve the offerings at a large community dinner in the school gym. Parents will happily pay for a night of dining and dishing with other families. Tip: Allo-cate salads, main courses and desserts by grade to ensure you’re not overloaded in one category.

Our school’s got talent Auction or raffle the skills of parents at your school. Artists can provide paintings; massage therapists could offer massages; stylists could flog haircuts; gourmet cooks could prepare dinners; and firefighters could offer personalized tours of the fire hall. Even kids can participate by offering coupons to wash cars, cut grass or do pet care. Tip: Offer examples of the range of skills you’re seeking or parents may tell you they have no talent.

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