Feature: Putting the FUN in Fundraiser
g putti n th e in
Success Strategies for Kids and Teens By Kristyn Morgan
“Fundraising.”
As a parent, does hearing this F-word make you cringe? It doesn’t have to! Over the years our six children have raised money for activities ranging from summer camps to school clubs and trips. Often it is not feasible for us as parents to foot the bill. We also feel it’s important for our children to work toward earning the activities they are participating in. Doing so creates a sense of ownership and responsibility. Along the way we have learned a thing or two about supporting these efforts, and about enjoying the fundraising piece as more than a means to an end. With a little bit of creativity and some helpful tips, you
and your children can also have a great fundraising experience. Make a Clear Goal Determine from the outset how much you expect your child to raise and the deadline for raising the set amount. It’s important that the goal be realistic and attainable in the allotted time. Having a clear goal also helps as you advertise what you are raising money for. People are more likely to buy or donate when they know exactly what it is their money is supporting. For instance, let people know you are raising funds for an upcoming band trip to Disneyland rather than a generic description of “band.”
Review Safety and Customer Service Practices If you choose to participate in door-todoor sales, children should travel in pairs and ideally have a parent with them. They should be careful not to divulge personal information. Leave a parent’s phone number as a point of contact rather than a child’s number. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash at one time. Fundraising activities are an excellent way to teach children customer service skills that will benefit them for a lifetime. One year, while organizing a large, door-to-door fundraising day for a local high school organization, my team and I provided examples to the teens of what to say at each door, and instructed them to be polite, look the person in the eye and thank them as they left, regardless of whether the individual chose to contribute. When delivering goods or services, always be prompt and communicate expectations clearly with the customer. Good customer service leads to good referrals which means increased business and profit. Provide a Marketable Service or Product Generally speaking, one is more likely to be successful when providing a service or continued on page 14
12
Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • August 2018