Creative fundraising helps to keep schools strong

(ARA) - Times are tough, as every parent is keenly aware. But while everyone knows how the economy is affecting household budgets, families with school-age kids are feeling an extra crunch that is being put on their children's schools.

At best, fun extras like class parties and field trips are being cut from schedules; at worst, entire schools are being shuttered because of a lack of funding as many states face budget crises. However, the challenges facing kids, parents and schools are proving their mettle: As money dwindles, they're seeking out ways to raise funds, in a show of some truly strong school spirit.

The need to get more creative with fundraising ideas doesn't stem only from the increasingly unmet operating budgets of many schools. After years of seeing the same old products, many people who might buy to support a good cause -- and who are also looking out for their personal budgets -- are tired of being disappointed by products that aren't always of the highest quality. Today, people want to make sure that they're getting a good value for their dollar, no matter what they're spending it on.

Many schools are finding that a good way to bolster their fundraising efforts is to team up with a company that allows them to sell products that buyers know and love. For instance, schools that have held Yankee Candle fundraisers have seen strong results by bringing products from a trusted brand to customers.

There's a double appeal to taking this approach: It helps the school while simultaneously offering people a product they would normally buy, either for themselves or as a gift for others. The cost difference from regular retail is negligible -- at most, about a dollar -- and the school keeps 40 percent of the profits. And, compared to selling candy, snacks or frozen foods, it's an alternative that doesn't have a calorie count.

You can also look for ideas that are trending throughout society for fundraiser inspiration. Take for instance the growing desire people have for simplicity in their lives. In an effort to de-clutter, many people are streamlining their possessions, getting rid of what they don't really need. With that as an inspiration, organize a school garage sale. Have families bring in items they would normally sell in an individual sale and make it a big community event. It'll be up to the participants and the school to determine whether the profits are split or go entirely to the school, but either way, it's a great idea.

"Going green" is another big trend right now, and it seems that it'll only be more important in the future. You can instill environmentally friendly ideas and help your school at the same time by holding a recycling fundraiser. Recycling can cover everything from the everyday waste you'd normally put into your bins (metal, paper, glass and plastic) to jewelry or used cell phones and other electronic devices.

As schools look forward to the next academic year, they're faced with a lot of tough decisions. Many are getting a jump start on fundraising by examining their options well ahead of time and determining what kind of fundraiser is right for their school. At www.yankeecandlefundraising.com, you can learn more about your options for a candle fundraiser and order catalogs that feature scented pages, which give customers an accurate impression of what they're buying. More information about garage sale and recycling fundraisers is easy to find with a quick Web search.

If you've seen images on the news of kids going to school board meetings, lobbying to keep their schools open, you know how much they truly value their schools -- however much they might grouse about homework loads. Though they might not know all the intricacies of the economy, kids are more eager than ever to pitch in when they see their school under financial strain. Encouraging them to be a part of their school's fundraising efforts teaches invaluable lessons about the power of participation and how they can make a difference.

Courtesy of ARAcontent