I would send out a SAVE THE DATE flyer now to parents now and schedule a kick off meeting for the entire committee in October. Class parents should get guideline letter as part of their committee packet.
If you are doing a mass mailing to national and local vendors looking for donations, you should do that by October.
I would start putting basket together in January with completion at least one week before the event so that the program can be printed.
Good luck.
ohmomof2- I sent you our list of basket ideas, basket guidelines and our homeroom parent guideline letter. If you have any questions please let me know.
SunnyFL ...thanks for your help. I think I am going to wait until after Christmas to start collecting for the baskets but I want to start the classroom crafts soon. Anything you can send me is greatly appreciated. My email is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or you can post it here. Thanks again!
since your fundraiser is in April...I would let parent's know in your newsletter that each class will be assigned a basket theme and will be asked to submit an item that follows the theme. I would work with your homeroom parents in January to send home a letter to the parent and suggested items to purchase for their class basket. Make all of your baskets due back in by the beginning of March so you will have plenty of time for late baskets or in case you need to rework any of the baskets. I have sample homeroom parent letter I can provide you or post here if you would like. We had over 60 classes last year and a massive list of basket ideas if you would like to see them.
You can send home letters on your silent auction but chances are you will need to approach businesses for the majority of requests ~ this should be done face to face when at all possible. Most companies have their new year budgets set by fall (includes donations dollars/product) ... best to start yesterday.
