PTO Today

I understand. So the main concerns are the ability to track funds earned, having the ability to get paid quickly, all at a reputible website. Any other features you'd like to see in a perfect online fundraising site for schools? I'm listening.

Hi Timothy -

On this stuff, I think the biggest concern actually arises from a healthy skepticism. There have been a ton (dozens? hundreds?) of web enterprises that have come down the pike in the last 8 years or so promising to do away with traditional sales fundraisers and "overpriced gift wrap".

What most experienced parent group leaders know is that nearly all of these have been false promises.

So the worry isn't: "will you turn around the dollars in time" or "track our funds correctly"; the concern is really more fundamental.

Two things are quite scarce for parent groups: 1) volunteer time; 2) the attention of joe-average parents. So the concern from leaders is: if I put some of our precious volunteer time to work on this and I use up some of our quite scarce store of parent attention on this -- will it be worth my while?

Those same leaders know that if they put 5 or 7 good volunteers to work for 2 or 3 weeks, then they can make $10,000+ selling gift wrap. You're asking them to put a couple of volunteers on something year-round -- what's the return? Are you willing to guarantee it? Do you have a whole host of parent groups who'll be references for you, groups who've made a good chunk of change with a reasonable amount of effort and attention-using?

That's, I think, what you're up against.

Doesn't mean it's not doable -- new companies "make it" every year -- but it's difficult, and us parent group leaders are (rightfully?) skeptical sorts.

Tim

I like to be able to talk to an actual person. Especially if there are questions, concerns or problems.

Interesting feedback indeed. Tim/rockne, could you send me an email? timothymclain@yahoo.com -- I'd like to send you some additional questions directly. Thanks!

And having someone available via phone is certainly a must-have.

Any other ideas or thoughts on your perfect Web fundraising site?

Hi -

Didn't mean to post that as an unregistered. I'm Tim Sullivan and am the host of these here often-very-helpful, sometimes-crazy message boards.

Contact me anytime at: http://www.ptotoday.com/contact.html . Traveling a good bit this week, so email likely best.

Tim

So what is this different website thing?

Conducting a campaign all year would stink and I am NEW at this!