One of the great challenges of PTA activity is generating fresh and effective school fundraising ideas.

Those who have been involved in the PTA for a few years will have considerable experience of schools fundraising ideas, yet still are keen to identify new, interesting ideas.

Newer PTA members may wish to make a valuable contribution by offering something original. One of the most important factors is coming up with an idea that children and their families feel a sense of identity with and will become keen to support. A good starting point is to involve children and ask their opinions. Children are imaginative and also far less inhibited – unlike adults they won’t worry so much if people think their idea is ’silly’ or ‘unusual’.

Encourage fellow PTA members to consult with children on ideas, or even host a ‘focus group’ in which ideas can be discussed with pupils.

Activities such as a quiz, a sports event, music or dancing are always perennially popular, and are social enough for everyone to feel involved in.

It’s always a good idea to make an event themed – consider something local or topical just to the school for added originality. The creating and selling of school-specific items can also be a huge success – people like to have something made by the school.

It’s never too early to start thinking about schools Christmas cards. These are a school fundraising winner, as almost all parents buy Christmas cards and will gladly support the school this way.

Children can be encouraged to get involved by designing a card. To allow more children to be involved, artists may like to design the picture, while budding writers can compose a greeting, emerging entrepreneurs can contribute to sales and marketing, and outstanding organisers can help with production.

The whole process is a fantastic platform for school pupils to work together to create something impressive, and ultimately raise funds for the improvement of their school.

A competition for a design can be introduced as early as Spring, with different stages of the process addressed throughout the year. School Christmas cards will not only boost schools fundraising, but encourage teamwork, creative and business skills while the children have great fun in the process.
About the Author: Read more about this and other topics related to buy.com coupons