The pressure is on. You have been asked to organize a school fundraiser. Now what?

Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or PTO member, planning a fundraiser can feel overwhelming. Between selecting the right program, coordinating volunteers, and encouraging participation, it is easy to feel unsure of where to begin. The good news is that school fundraising does not have to be stressful or complicated. With the right tools and strategies, it can be simple, successful, and even fun.

At Gifts ‘N Things, we believe school fundraising should empower communities. Our proven fundraising tips and easy-to-use programs like brochure fundraising and School-A-Thon events are designed to help you raise more with less stress.

Table of Contents

• What Makes a Fundraiser Successful?
• How Can You Choose the Right Fundraiser?
• What Are the Best Ways to Promote Your Fundraiser?
• How Do You Maximize Participation and Engagement?
• What Should You Do After the Fundraiser Ends?
• Is It Time to Rethink How Your School Fundraises?
• FAQs

What Makes a Fundraiser Successful?

A successful fundraiser is one that reaches its financial goals, brings people together, and runs smoothly from start to finish. While every school is different, the most effective fundraisers share a few key qualities.

• Clear goals. Know what success looks like for your school. This could mean raising a specific amount, reaching a certain level of participation, or funding a particular project.
• Strong communication. Keep everyone informed throughout the process, from kick-off to wrap-up.
• Simplicity. The easier it is to understand and participate in your fundraiser, the more likely people are to get involved.
• Student involvement. When students are engaged, they are more excited to share and promote the fundraiser.

Planning ahead, staying organized, and partnering with a trusted provider like Gifts ‘N Things can make a big difference.

Tip: Keep your fundraiser short and focused. Two to three weeks is often the sweet spot for keeping interest high and results strong.

How Can You Choose the Right Fundraiser?

Choosing the right fundraiser means finding a program that fits your school’s needs and goals. Start by thinking about your school community. Are families looking for convenient options? Do students get excited about activity-based events? If you are not sure where to begin, the right fundraising tips can help guide your decision and lead you toward the most effective option for your school.

Two of the most popular and effective options are:

1. Brochure Fundraising
   GNT’s brochure fundraising program offers high-quality, seasonal items that are easy to sell. With tools for online shopping, email sharing, and student prize tracking, it is a well-rounded option that combines tradition with convenience.
2. School-A-Thon Events
   School-A-Thon offers interactive school fundraising events like Color-A-Thon and Glow Run. These events focus on fun, fitness, and inclusivity. All materials are provided, and every step is supported by the School-A-Thon team.

Both options are designed to simplify planning while maximizing engagement and profit.

What Are the Best Ways to Promote Your Fundraiser?

Even with the best fundraising tips, success comes down to how well you communicate and keep the momentum going throughout your campaign.

Here are a few strategies that work:

• Use all your communication channels. Announce the fundraiser through emails, school newsletters, printed flyers, website updates, and social media.
• Explain the purpose. Let families know why you are fundraising and how the money will be used. This creates a sense of connection and shared purpose.
• Use provided materials. GNT offers ready-to-use marketing materials for both brochure sales and School-A-Thon events to help schools promote with ease.
• Encourage word of mouth. Get students, staff, and parents talking about the fundraiser early and often.

The more visible and meaningful your fundraiser feels, the more likely people are to support it.

How Do You Maximize Participation and Engagement?

Participation is one of the biggest factors in a fundraiser’s success. To encourage more families to get involved, make the experience engaging and easy to join.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Offer simple incentives. Small prizes or school-wide celebrations can go a long way in motivating students.
2. Highlight impact. Show how the fundraiser will benefit students, classrooms, or the school as a whole.
3. Share progress. Give regular updates to show how close you are to reaching your goals.
4. Use digital tools. GNT offers built-in platforms for online ordering, tracking sales, and promoting events digitally, making it simple for families to participate from anywhere.

When people feel included and see the value, they are more likely to take action.