We are now a PTA & thinking seriously about leaving the PTA group. But, I have questions #1 Fundraising- Are there limits to what you can & can't do for fundraising? Like PTA dunktanks etc are not allowed. Are there limits to money being raised?? Has it been beneficial to any of you leaving the PTA group??
Thanks to anyone who can help!

Hi Lisa -

As a PTO, you set your bylaws (within legal boundaries, of course).

There are no limits on how much money you can raise, no.

RE: the dunk tank, I suspect that prohibition came from your insurance carrier, as opposed to from the PTA (though I could be wrong). You could have same prohibition as a PTO if you use same insurance carrier. Not sure.

Tim

Dunktank is NOT a PTA rule, most likely from your insurance or school district.

There are NO limits on fundraising for PTA or PTO. The biggest rules come from the IRS. If you change you will need to apply for your 501c(3) non profit status from the IRS. Also if you raise more than $25,000 you will need to file form 990 with the IRS.

Is fundraising your main goal?

Changing from A to O will NOT increase parent involvement or volunteerism by itself. And the methods and actions to increase involvement will work for both PTA and PTO.