First and I am no expert. I have just done this for 2 years. You need to get on line and google the companies name. Check out FAQ? and look and see what they say. Remember, all companies don't have every feature. Look for Contact Us or About Us. There you will find addresses, maybe, online forms to fill out, or e-mail info, phone#, fax # and etc. They may even tell you what you need for donation or if they donate. Some I mail, some I have faxed and others sent e-mails. I like the ones that you fill out the forms on line. I have a letter for that and just copy and past. (For a sample letter their are some on PTO's web site. (Please don't ask for mine.) I just made them my own by using parts from several. I haven't gotten any give cash but gift card, certificates, and some give products. Also I have not gotten the same thing each year. One year I didn't get any thing and the next I did. I think, it has to do with how much they have already given away. It also has to do with were you are located (live in their area) and if they have a factory or business close to you. Just read and look close for info. It might save you in the end.
I have also found that an address or company that works for you might not work for me. You just have to do the time and look on line.
I have set up a file in excel and put notes of who, what, when, why, mailed, e-mailed, faxed, donated, and etc. ( Like x07, for mailed, e for emailed and etc. I also put a date to let me know if I have contacted that company and in what year and how. I also have a binder and keep info such as special instruction needed. Letter I might have received with special instruction.
Some have ridged time frames. Most want 4 to 6 some want 8 weeks before the event. Some large corp want you to go the your local store for form and donation. Ex: Bed, Bath & Beyond wants you to pick up a application from your local store. Crayola will only give to PA people within their factory area. Cranium last year was bought out by Hasbro and Hasbro only give directly to the needy. Green Bay Packers to Wisconsin only need 501 c3, Hallmark Cards, Inc, not adding new people already gives lots.
Some will even say that we don't meet their guideline. But, don't know everyone need and maybe yours are different than mine. Also their are a few that you will need some many people attending your event.
Hope this helps some. Again, you just have to look on line and do the time. Good luck.
Please DON"T ask for my excel file.
