Fundraising for Small Groups Newsletter

More and more parents are looking at their co-workers as potential fund-raising customers. Likewise, more and more businesses are placing limits on what they consider appropriate for fund-raising among co-workers. Here are some ideas for tasteful workplace fund-raising to pass on to your parent volunteers.

• Target Your Sales

  There are three kinds of fundraising customers: Those who have shown an interest in your product/s; those who have purchased from you before; and those from whom you've purchased items. Be selective about who you approach and focus proactive efforts on these three potential customers. Make sure these in-person appeals to co-workers are only made during work breaks and lunch hours. And be aware that the higher you are on the corporate ladder, the harder it is to prevent people who work for you from feeling pressure to buy something.

• ... And Let the Rest Come to You

  Reserve office equipment for company business only - not fund-raising. Avoid sending broad announcements about your fundraising project via company e-mail. Instead, take advantage of high-traffic, central locations - office and break room bulletin boards - to post fundraising flyers, sign-up sheets and self-serve product kits.

• Merchandise Creatively

  Display your fund-raising items in a festive basket or alongside themed props. Example: put candy bars in a festive basket with a baseball and glove alongside a photo of your child in the team uniform with a sign that says: "Buy this candy to support Matt's dream to "play ball."

• ... And Don't Forget to Say Thank You

  Remember to thank supporters, particularly those without children whose generosity is seldom reciprocated. After the fund-raising drive, treat your supporters to donuts or bagels and let them know how much money your office contributed to the child's school, little league or other organization. A hand-written thank you note from your child will only enhance the "aawwhh" quotient.