I am not on the board of our PTO but I am an active member. I am wondering how many events are too many. Also should they all be fundraising events? We are thinking of forming a fun committee and would appreciate any ideas on how to do this and make it a success.

Hi Stacy,

The number of committees or events that you volunteer for is entirely up to you. If you have the time to dedicate that's wonderful (just don't burn yourself out).

Our organization does offer free family events throughout the year. We do not want parents to feel that every time they attend a PTO event that they need to open their wallets and donate more.

Our PTO Chairs are all new this year (first-timers). The PTO has created alot of excitement over the last several months amongst the children, faculty and most of all the parents. A new fundraiser "Meadow Farms" was introduced this past fall with great success rate (55% over budget), fundraising for a playground (began last May and accomplished target goal in October, groundbreaking for the playground will be April/May timeframe of this year), and most of all four family fun filled events accomplished to date with several more on its way.

In our situation with the amount of fundraising accomplished in a short period of time. The Board decided to vote to have a few events with no admission, no raffles or no charge for snacks and beverages. The largest event attended (over 500 children, parents and siblings) was the Fall Family Festival - there was a small admission fee, all activities were free, the concession stand was "Old Fashion theme" items were purchased for $0.25, $0.75, $1.00 and $1.50 such as hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, water, Capri Suns, soda.... The goal was to break even and the goal was accomplished. The reception from faculty and parents was over-whelming.

Another event was Books Come Alive Robots and Reading this event was entirely free. The response again was overwhelming. The cost to hold the event was slightly under $200.

Just remember to have fun!!

Best Regards,
Kelli

Thank You Kelli for the info and the ideas