There are many elements needed to run a preschool well. To support the talented and dedicated staff, you need enough funds. While tuition, government funding and sponsorships may cover a significant portion of operating expenses, there's often still a gap.
Many preschools conduct fundraisers throughout the year to help meet the remaining financial needs. Fundraising doesn't necessarily mean selling candy bars or gift wrap either. Put the fun back into fundraising with these five great ideas:
Fun run: Boost school spirit and encourage physical fitness with a fun run (or walk). You could hold this during school hours or opt to do it on a weekend day and make it a family event. Basically students would get forms where friends and relatives would sponsor them on their journey. Keep in mind preschool kids probably won't walk for miles, so you may want to choose a distance on-site such as around the campus or athletic fields.
School carnival: Who doesn't like games, food and fun? You probably have fond memories of your own school carnival growing up, so give that gift to students while raising money for the school. Local businesses may even donate food items or sponsor booths. This one requires some planning, so reach out to parents and form a volunteer committee to get organized.
Silent auction: Collect donations from parents and local businesses and hold a silent auction. Teachers might even offer their time for tutoring after school hours as a donation item. When you have a nice variety, display the items in a commons area so parents can see as they come and go each day. You might also consider posting online, which opens the option for social promotion and easy sharing to students' extended families.
Fall and spring pictures: Work with Lifetouch Preschool Photography to set up pictures in both the fall and springtime. When families purchase photos, the school gets a portion of the proceeds. This sales commission can add up fast. Offering seasonal photography provides two opportunities to capture those smiling faces and raise funds for your needs.
Raffle tickets: A raffle can be an easy and exciting way to raise money. The key is to get a few intriguing items to raffle so people will want to buy multiple tickets. Depending on the size of your school and the raffle ticket price you'd like to set, you might consider things like event tickets, local experiences, tuition scholarships or even big-ticket items like a car or boat.
Have fun while raising funds for a good cause!
There are many elements needed to run a preschool well. To support the talented and dedicated staff, you need enough funds.