Just wanted to pass along that I no longer approach chain stores such as Bed, Bath & Beyond, Target, Victoria's Secret, Omaha Steaks, etc. because these store managers generally do not give to local schools. This is because there are so MANY schools (and other charities) on Long Island, where I live. And, some of these organizations specifically donate on a national level to specific charities that they support. I've noticed that some people do get donations from some of these stores and wonder if they are located in less dense areas.

I can't stress enough to people new to fundraising the need to approach local businesses and follow-up with everyone who says, "come back at the end of the month/closer to the event," etc. One approach I've tried with certain chain food places (that I know don't donate) is to ask if they have coupons for a free ice-cream cone, coffee, etc. If the right person is managing the store and happens to have coupons like this on hand, it's a way for them to contribute when they might not otherwise give a larger gift card. I've also noticed that places are being inundated with so many requests that they are establishing stricter geographic requirements (e.g., Bronx Zoo now requires you to be w/in 25 miles, Green Mountain Coffee which donated tirelessly and generously all over the country now focuses on areas closer to them.).

Thanks for the tips that all of you pass along.

Zoobooks.com emailed me a certificate for a 1yr subscription. I sent my request through their contact us form and heard back within 1 week.

Ashley85 - I used This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for Jeff Kinney. I got an email back about a day or 2 later, saying we would be receiving a boxed set.

Is there a way we can go back to posting the contact information as was done in the past? It was extremely easy to see the business and contact information and I didn't have to go searching for it. It seems as if the thread went from business information and contact information to ideas on different events and how to run them.