The Anatomy of a Great High School Fundraiser

High school selling tips for success

What are the differences between an average and a great high school fundraiser? Perhaps some organizations are lazy and aren’t motivated to sell. Maybe the group as a whole lacks focus and direction. Some groups are new to fundraising and lack experience. Or possibly the reason is financial and unfortunately poorer areas just don’t do as well. But are these legitimate reasons or simply hurdles that need to be overcome?

The truth of the matter is that every group has the chance to succeed and the reasons may surprise you as to why some triumph and others don't. Everyone has their own unique challenges; however there are specific things that successful groups have that help them overcome potential obstacles. Here's what successful high school sponsors do regardless:

Motivated Fundraising Sponsors

Strong sponsors expect their group members to sell. If parents can't simply write a check, then participating is not an option. It’s that simple. These sponsors have high expectations of their students already, and they see their sales campaigns as an important tool that helps the group achieve their objectives. Groups that are successful at raising money already have a strong sense of purpose to begin with.

Clearly Defined Sales Goals

Successful sponsors actually have a clearly defined goal for their students. The sponsor has identified what the group needs and how much money it’s going to take. They've already calculated how much each student needs to sell for the group to reach its goal. Students know what’s expected of them from the beginning.

Strong Dependence on Fundraisers

Strong groups realize that selling is a necessary component, and they embrace it. In other words, selling is not an afterthought but rather a part of what they do. Everyone's informed and expects it. They understand that for the group to be successful, fundraising is a necessity, not an option.

Groups that are successful at raising money already have a strong sense of purpose about who they are and what they intend to accomplish. Sponsors of these groups instill this type of environment from day one. Nothing changes once the selling starts.

For an additional resource on planning ideas for your next campaign, download our free fundraising tips eBook from our school fundraising tips page.

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Author Bio

Clay Boggess has been designing fundraising programs for schools and various nonprofit organizations throughout the US since 1999. He’s helped administrators, teachers, and outside support entities such as PTAs and PTOs raise millions of dollars. Clay is an owner and partner at Big Fundraising Ideas.