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Explore summer fundraising ideas that work. CharityAuctionsToday offers ideas to help schools, churches, and organizations beat the summer giving slump.
Summer is a season of warmth, outdoor activities, and community gatherings. It’s also an ideal time for fundraising, despite what the summer giving slump might tell you.
Whether you’re a school administrator, a church leader, or a community organizer, you’re likely looking for effective ways to raise funds. This guide is designed to help you plan and execute successful summer fundraising events.
We’ll explore a variety of summer fundraising ideas that work. These ideas can be implemented in various settings such as workplaces, schools, churches, and community events.
From family-friendly activities to outdoor events, we’ll provide you with creative and engaging ideas. We’ll also share tips on how to promote your fundraiser, leverage technology, and ensure safety and compliance for outdoor events.
Our goal is to inspire you and provide you with practical strategies. We want to help you make your summer fundraiser not only a financial success but also a memorable event for your community.
Remember, the success of your summer fundraiser depends on careful planning, creativity, and community engagement. Let’s make this summer a season of giving back.
by Katherine Auguste, Unsplash
Summer offers unique opportunities for fundraising. The warm weather and longer days make it perfect for outdoor events. From fun runs to community picnics, the possibilities are endless.
Moreover, summer is a time when people are often more relaxed and have more free time. This makes them more likely to participate in community events. It’s also a great time to engage families, as children are out of school and parents are looking for activities to keep them occupied.
In addition, summer fundraising can leverage seasonal themes and activities. Think beach parties, BBQ cook-offs, or outdoor movie nights. These can make your fundraiser more appealing and memorable.
Many people have a lot of demands on their time in the summer months, or they have more time to spend away from computers and devices. You need to choose events that they’ll want to make time for: events that will entertain the kids or help them have summer fun in the name of a great cause. Embrace the season and let the summer sun shine on your fundraising efforts.
Planning is crucial for a successful summertime fundraiser. Start by setting clear goals. What do you hope to achieve? How much money do you aim to raise? Having clear objectives will guide your planning process.
Next, consider your audience. Who are you targeting? Families, young professionals, or perhaps the elderly? Understanding your audience will help you choose the right type of fundraiser. It will also guide your marketing efforts.
Budget is another key consideration. Fundraisers should raise money, not cost a fortune. Be realistic about what you can afford. Look for ways to keep costs low, such as seeking sponsorships or donations.
Remember to consider logistics. If you’re planning an outdoor event, you’ll need permits. You’ll also need to plan for safety and accessibility.
Here are some key points to consider when planning your summer fundraiser:
With careful planning, your summer fundraiser can be a huge success.
We understand that your organization might have a lot of Out of Office notices on its calendar in the summer. After all, nonprofit employees and volunteers also need time off and fun in the sun in order to return to work refreshed.
If you don’t have the resources to plan and manage a big event, consider sticking to digital events for some of the season. Our platform makes it easy to host an auction, accept donations, run ticket sales, and sell raffle tickets, all from the convenience of your desk. You can customize your event to include all of these revenue drivers or just one.
Don’t have auction items? Use our auction inventory to choose travel packages your donors will be thrilled to bid on. These items sell for a portion of their final hammer price and don’t cost your organization anything upfront.
Whether you hold a purely online auction to combat that summer slow down or you use it to accompany a bigger summer fundraiser, we can help you make more with less effort.
Workplaces offer a unique setting for summer fundraising. They bring together a diverse group of people who share a common goal. This can create a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.
One popular idea is a charity fun run or walkathon. Employees can participate or sponsor their colleagues. This not only raises funds but also promotes health and wellness.
Another idea is a summer BBQ cook-off. Employees can show off their grilling skills while raising funds. You could charge an entry fee for the cook-off or sell the food to raise money.
Workplace fundraisers can also be tied to team-building activities. For example, you could organize a scavenger hunt or a sports tournament. These activities can boost morale while raising funds for a good cause.
Here are some summertime fundraising ideas for the workplace:
Remember, the key to a successful workplace fundraiser is engagement. Make sure the event is fun and inclusive. Consider holding your event during work hours (and don’t expect people to work late to compensate). This will encourage employees to participate and donate and show your dedication to your chosen cause.
by Vincent Keiman, Unsplash
Family-friendly summertime fundraisers are a great way to engage people of all ages. They can bring together families, friends, and local community members. Plus, they can create lasting memories while supporting a good cause.
One idea is a summer fair or carnival. You can have games, food stalls, and entertainment. This can attract a large crowd and raise significant funds.
Another idea is a community yard sale or flea market. Families can donate items to sell. This not only raises funds but also promotes recycling and sustainability.
You could also organize a family fun run or walkathon. This promotes health and wellness while raising funds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the summer weather.
Here are some family-friendly summer fundraising ideas:
Remember, the key to a successful family-friendly fundraiser is inclusivity. Make sure the event is accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. This will encourage families to participate and donate.
Be certain your event occurs at a convenient time for most families. Have free water and first aid kits on hand in case the heat is too intense. Warn parents if any of your arts and crafts tables include particularly messy activities, so they can bring a change of clothes. Make your event not just convenient but attractive to busy families and they will participate.
Outdoor activities are a staple of summer. These summertime fundraising ideas offer a chance to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. Plus, they can be a great way to raise funds for your cause.
One popular outdoor fundraising idea is a charity run or walk. This can be a fun run, a 5K, or even a marathon. Participants can raise funds through sponsorship. Plus, it promotes health and wellness.
Another idea is a swim-a-thon or boat race. These water-based activities are perfect for summer. They can attract a large crowd and raise significant funds.
You could also consider a sports tournament. This could be soccer, baseball, volleyball, or any other sport. Teams can pay an entry fee, which goes towards your cause.
Here are some outdoor activities that can double as fundraisers:
Remember, safety is key for outdoor activities. Make sure you have the necessary permits and insurance. Also, have a contingency plan in case of bad weather.
Outdoor activities can be a fun and effective way to raise funds. They can engage the community, promote your cause, and make the most of the summer season.
Churches often serve as the heart of a community. They can use this position to organize summer fundraising campaigns. These events can raise funds and also strengthen community bonds.
One idea is a community outreach event. This could be a free meal, a concert, or a fair. You can charge a small fee, attendees can make donations, and local businesses can sponsor the event.
Another idea is a themed event. This could be tied to a holiday or a biblical story. The theme can make the event more engaging and memorable.
Here are some summer church fundraisers with a community focus:
Remember, the key is to engage the community. Make the event inclusive and family-friendly. Also, use the event to spread your church’s message and values.
Summer church fundraisers can be a powerful tool. They can raise funds, engage the community, and spread your message. With careful planning, your summer church fundraiser can be a great success.
by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Unsplash
Summer break doesn’t mean fundraising activities have to stop. In fact, the summer months can provide unique opportunities for schools to raise funds. These can support various school programs and initiatives.
One popular idea is a summer camp. Schools can offer a variety of camps, from sports to arts to science. Parents pay a fee for their children to attend, which goes towards the school’s fundraising goals.
Another idea is a book fair. This can be done in partnership with a local bookstore or library. A portion of the sales can go towards the school’s fundraising efforts.
Here are some summer fundraising ideas for schools:
Remember, the key is to engage students, parents, and teachers. Make the event educational and fun. Also, use the event to promote the school’s mission and values.
Summer fundraising for schools can be a powerful tool. They can raise funds, engage the school community, and promote learning. With careful planning, your summer school fundraiser can be a great success.
Promotion is a crucial part of any successful fundraiser. It’s not enough to plan a great event. You need to make sure people know about it.
Start by identifying your target audience. Who are you trying to reach? Parents, community members, or corporate sponsors? Tailor your promotional efforts to appeal to them.
Use a variety of channels to spread the word. Social media, email newsletters, local newspapers, and community bulletin boards can all be effective. Don’t forget word-of-mouth. Encourage supporters to tell their friends and family about the event.
Remember, the goal is not just to inform, but to excite. Create a sense of anticipation and sell tickets. Highlight the fun activities, the impact of the funds raised, and the sense of community the event will foster. With effective promotion, your summer fundraiser can reach its full potential.
In today’s digital age, technology and social media are powerful tools for promoting your fundraiser. They can help you reach a wider audience and make it easier for people to donate.
Start by setting up an online donation platform. This allows people to contribute even if they can’t attend the event. Make sure the platform is secure and user-friendly and that your Donate page is easy to find and use.
Next, create a social media strategy. Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to share updates, photos, and videos. Use a unique hashtag to create buzz around your event.
Finally, consider using technology at your event. For example, you could set up a live stream or use a mobile payment system for on-site donations. With the right approach, technology can significantly boost your fundraising efforts.
When planning outdoor fundraising events, safety should be a top priority. This includes both physical safety and compliance with local regulations.
Firstly, ensure that the venue is safe for the planned activities. Check for potential hazards and have a first aid kit and emergency plan in place. If the event involves physical activities, remind participants to wear appropriate gear for the weather and activity. Have free water on hand in addition to other refreshments.
Secondly, make sure your event complies with local laws and regulations. This may involve obtaining permits or licenses. It’s also important to have liability insurance to cover any potential incidents.
Lastly, consider the needs of all attendees. Make sure the venue is accessible to people with disabilities. Also, if the event is family-friendly, ensure there are facilities and activities suitable for children. By prioritizing safety and compliance, you can create a positive and inclusive environment for your fundraiser.
After your summer fundraiser, it’s crucial to evaluate its success. This isn’t just about the amount of money raised. It’s also about the impact made and the engagement achieved.
Consider the number of participants, the level of community involvement, and the feedback received. These factors can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your event.
Also, don’t forget to measure the success against the goals set at the beginning. This will help you understand what worked well and what could be improved for future fundraisers. Remember, every event is a learning opportunity.
Summer fundraisers are more than just about raising funds. They’re about creating memorable experiences, fostering community spirit, and making a lasting impact.
With the right planning, creativity, and execution, your summer fundraiser can be a resounding success. It can bring people together, promote your cause, and generate much-needed funds.
Remember, the most popular summer fundraisers are those that resonate with people. So, focus on creating an event that your community will love and remember. That’s the key to a successful summer fundraiser.
DOWNLOAD The Auction Profit Blueprint
The 4 tools BIG organizations use every time to skyrocket auction profits!
The Step-By-Step Guide to stop leaving thousands on the table.
