I don't know about other states, but in Texas we are not allowed to take our proceeds to help other organizations. I'm not sure how the parents would feel knowing that the PTO funds were used to help other organizations. These are all worthy causes but we believe that the money raised should stay solely with the school.

We have been hit with this many times and it seems the time has come for a bylaw change for you...perhaps the wording could be:

Funds raised by (your PTO Name)are to be used for the betterment of the school as a whole and not for individual groups that all students do not participate in.

When you have the bylaws to back you up it is real easy to say no.

This past year we've had numerous groups-baseball, scouts, after-prom committee, etc, come to us for money. Our small elementary has the most sucessful fundraisers in the district, and everyone knows that, so they come with outstretched hand... We have always stuck to strictly school/teacher support, purchasing computers, playground equipment, etc. As a board we now realize that we need something concrete in writing to stem the tide. Most parents support us & work hard to raise money for ALL the kids. The last straw was some baseball parents coming to us for thousands of dollars to put in a water line for a new concession stand they were building. It was WAY more money than we've ever had, other than when we saved for 4 years for all new computers in our computer lab! There were hard feelings on both sides, unfortunately.
I've looked at a lot of by-laws, but nothing really seems pertinent. Anyone been through this, or have any suggestions????? Thanks so much!