Originally posted by boosterprez:
We're strictly a donations only group too. I've posted about our procedures on the "what's the best fundraiser" thread...

We have four levels of giving...Supporters @ $75, Benefactors @ @125, Sponsors @ $400 or more, and Underwriters @ $1500 or more. Each level gets a degree of recognition, with underwriters getting actual programs attached to their names. Sponsors and underwriters are usually school families that own their own businesses, though not always. Being a 501(c)3 org. allows donors to take full advantage of tax deductibility. Last year we raised over $52,000!

We call our program 'Opt-out' (of fundraising). We're going into our fifth year of this program and have expanded it into two other schools as well. Keep in mind that parents who work for companies with matching programs can get you the paperwork to match their contributions. We have parents who work for companies that even do a 3:1 match! That translates into a total of $200 for a $50 contribution by the parent. You might want to add this into your flyer and remind parents on back to school night as well.

We also give students whose parents make a donation, credit for participating in fundraisers. For example, if we're offering an ice cream party to classrooms with 90% participation in the gift wrap fundraiser, we also include those kids whose families made a direct donation.

We're strictly a donations only group too. I've posted about our procedures on the "what's the best fundraiser" thread...

We have four levels of giving...Supporters @ $75, Benefactors @ @125, Sponsors @ $400 or more, and Underwriters @ $1500 or more. Each level gets a degree of recognition, with underwriters getting actual programs attached to their names. Sponsors and underwriters are usually school families that own their own businesses, though not always. Being a 501(c)3 org. allows donors to take full advantage of tax deductibility. Last year we raised over $52,000!

I think I'll be borrowing "Write-A-Check" if you don't mind. We are trying this this year, too.

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[ 07-30-2006, 12:52 PM: Message edited by: CapeDad ]

Thanks for the ideas! And Jenn, I really appreciate seeing how you worded your flyer! It gives me some good ideas on how to do ours! THANKS!!!!!

Wendi

Mannik - We did this for the first time last year as an option for our families. We called is "Write a Check" and explained that their donation would be 100% profit as opposed to cookie dough at 40% and gift wrap at 50%. Families chose which one (or all) they wanted to participate in. We gave "prizes" for every $20 donated (a free non-uniform day - which is a huge incentive at our school). For the first year - we did really well. I believe this will continue to be an option for families and the amount will grow every year. What's the harm in throwing it out there as an option?

Here's the flyer we sent out...

“Write a Check” Fundraiser

Several parents have asked if they could just write a check instead of selling items for a fundraiser. The answer is “yes”. If you would just like to make a donation to the school, please fill out the form below and return it along with your check (made payable to *** PTA) in an envelope marked “write a check” donation, and return to the office. Our school will receive 100% of the total donations.

There are prizes as well…
$10 donated – child receives free ice cream
$20 donated – child receives a free “non-uniform” day
For each additional $20 donation – the child will receive another “non-uniform” day.
*************************************************
Parent’s Name: ________________________________
Child’s Name: __________________________________
Child’s Teacher: _______________________________
Donation amount: _______________________________

Check this box if you need a receipt.

Thank you for your support!