Temps are on the rise, and we’re staring down the last day of school. For families, summer months mean looking for new ways to have fun and give back. The weather allows for more activities than the rest of the year, whether you’re looking to get wet or stay out a little later.
Take advantage of your time off and try some of these summer fundraising tips to support your favorite non-profit.
- Organize a Bike-a-Thon or a Fun Run
Sure, you can organize a friendly race any time of year, but sunny days are sure to draw a crowd. You can raise money a few different ways. One option is charging a registration fee by team or individual. Another is gathering sponsors who pledge a certain amount per lap or mile. Another still is selling cool refreshments to spectators. Offer some lemonade, popsicles, and sports drinks to keep the heat at bay. For more ideas, check out what the experts at AbcFundraising.com have to say.
- Put on a Benefit Concert
It doesn’t matter what kind of music you like; there’s nothing better than a summertime concert. People sit out on the lawn, bring their refreshments and relax.
Harnessing the power of music to gather donors together is a surefire way to raise money for a good cause.
Sell tickets, merchandise, enlist some local food trucks to provide some tasty bites. In any case, your non-profit is sure to benefit from a little music under the stars.
That said, throwing a benefit concert may come with more expenses than other types of charitable events. While you may be able to get vendors and performers to donate their services to the cause, chances are you’ll have to put down some cash.
- Pool Party
Concert too complicated? Weather too hot? A pool party is one of the more straightforward forms of fundraising available. If you’ve got a pool, charge admission. Or, coordinate with a local public pool and rent the space for a few hours one lazy Saturday.
The bulk of your expenses will come from hiring licensed lifeguards to keep everyone safe. Sell snacks at the concession stand, add a raffle or carnival games to the fun–the more you’ve got going on, the more money you can raise.
- Host a Tournament
Kickball, softball, golf—whatever strikes your fancy—summer’s the perfect time to get moving for the sake of charity. Golf tournaments, admittedly take a lot of planning, but if you’re short on time and want something that anyone can play, opt for kickball or softball.
Raise money with registration fees, and collect funds ahead of time. Recruit participants via social media, ask coworkers to join and spread the word—the more, the merrier. It’s worth noting that you’ll get more people on board the earlier you start promoting your event.
Additionally, it’s worthwhile to grill up some burgers, buy some sodas, waters, and ice creams—it’ll add a little boost for your charitable efforts.
- Coordinate a Restaurant Fundraiser
Restaurant fundraisers are a fun way to get together with your community while raising money for a good cause. This type of event is relatively easy to set up. You don’t need volunteers; rather, you’ll rely on the restaurant staff to take care of the heavy lifting.
According to PTO Today, the restaurant will donate up to 20% of sales made during the event. Just make sure you’ve done your research to see where you’ll be able to get the most bang for your buck.
The main thing you’ll need to take care of is the marketing. Shoot out emails or Facebook messages to the community, encouraging everyone to show up.
Make fundraising a part of your family’s summer fun. Plan ahead for best results—and you’re sure to make an impact.