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Ask Elly: Fundraising

How many fundraisers are too many?

Dear Elly,

How many fundraisers should a PTO have each year, and who determines this? At our previous elementary school, there were one or two main fundraisers. However, it seems like this school has one every month! Candy, gift wrap, coupon books, cookie dough—my family is tired of selling it all. Does it ever end? I’m becoming more active in our PTO and would like to influence some changes.

Tired of selling? If you’re like most parents, you’re probably even more tired of buying! Elly can’t say she blames you; it sounds like your group may have gone a bit overboard. For this very reason, some school districts put a limit on the number of fundraisers each school can hold that involve the children selling items. Fundraising is an important tool for a parent group, and it should be used wisely—with great discretion. Most groups don’t want to be seen merely as a fundraising machine.

Ideally, PTO leaders should discuss all the aspects of fundraising, such as the goals, the expectations, the number and type of fundraisers, and what other fundraisers will take place in the school. Then consider what you are trying to accomplish and what funds are really needed. Based on this information, decide how to proceed.

While there is no magic number, many parent groups hold one major fundraiser each semester, such as a product sale or a large event. A PTO may also have ongoing programs such as Box Tops for Education, ink cartridge recycling, or various sales rebate programs that raise some funds without using the children as a sales force.

Talk to other parents who feel similarly, and share your concerns with the PTO board or at a meeting. You could offer to serve on the fundraising committee, to research fundraising ideas that might have a higher return or to assist with a parent survey. If you want to influence change, bring the matter up in a constructive fashion. You will be most effective if you are willing to be part of the solution.

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