Hi Jay -

A couple of quick answers:

1. Yes, many/most groups choose their large fall fundraiser in the spring. Depending on what part of the country you're in (south works a bit earlier than northeast, for example, since southern schools are often out earlier), March is a pretty common time. There are some nice early-sign-on bonuses available in the spring.

2. Yes, most of the fundraising companies have reps. who will come out and work with you. Use that, interview reps., get references.

3. How do you find them? Well, I'd wager your post here will get you a few emails.... :0). You can also use our Fundraising Yellow Pages on this site: (Click Here for Yellow Pages)

These guys want your business. Look for quality and reputation and service. Don't base your entire decision on profit percentage.

Ask more questions here; you're sure to get good insight.

Tim

Ok this is my first year that I've done a fall brochure sale so I'll give you some ideas. First everyone is pitching there stuff right now, and if you sign on early you get added bonus. Ignore all that because you have to sign now. Decide on things you must have to go with that company. Ours is a 50% profit, free moonwalks if their company has them for our carnival, teacher and top seller incentives, and possibly a party for any kids that sell a certain amt. I also make them change their prize for 1 item sold if its a pen (they are always junky and break). It may sound bossy or demanding but they want your business realllllly bad so you can get away with demands like that. We usually sell atleast 50,000 total so we are making them 25,000 so I figure I have the right to the demands. Once you have eliminated those who can't meet what you want I take those and make them give me 5 references esp those in the same state/city. I call the BBB also just to check them out.

You can also call other schools in your area and see who they've gone with and if they did or did not like them.

You also want to check on how they run the sell regarding things like returns, breaks, things that never came in. This way you can set up some idea of how you want to run it with with parents.

Hi again.

I am looking for information as to how far in advance most PTAs evaluate and select their fundraising companies for a sales-based fundraising campaign. When would you select your company for a fall campaign?

Also, do fundraising companies have representatives that come to PTA meetings? How do you know which companies are out there so you can select the right one?

Thanks again!