Programs are one of the easiest fundraisers to organize. Items like flower bulbs, school spirit supplies (cell phone covers, water bottles), cookie dough, candles or coffee are obtained from a company and then sold in the community. The booster club keeps a percentage of the profit (often 50 percent) and oversees the effort. Kids no longer go door to door selling, so it is critical to get parental buy-in since they will be involved in selling products to friends, relatives, neighbors and work contacts. Be sure to check the credentials of the company before entering into an agreement.
Reserve the school cafeteria and the gym and invite friends and neighbors to a simple meal and youth-led performance. Parents love to see their kids on stage and are grateful for an affordable family outing. Work with the school's cook to find out what types of food you can offer and keep it simple. A selection of soups with some warm bread and a salad makes for a satisfying meal that can be quickly served to a large number of people. Identify students' talents and showcase them. They can perform in groups or solo -- just be sure to mix it up and have an emcee with good stage presence to keep things moving.
Add a little friendly competition to your fundraising efforts with a chili cook-off. Invite teachers, parents, coaches, students, school board members, local chefs and area businesses to enter their chili into a contest. Gather a team of high-profile judges like the mayor, the superintendent and the chief of police to be the taste testers. This will make it more fun and broaden the base of people likely to attend. Solicit prizes from local businesses and award them in a variety of categories like "Hottest," "Most unusual ingredients" and "People's choice."
No matter which fundraising activity you choose, if you don't get the word out it won't be successful. Look at the resources you have in your community and invite them all to help you promote your event. In addition to articles in the school newsletter and letters to parents, contact the education reporter from your local newspaper, send out a press release, set up an information table at school events, send emails and set up a website. Be clear on your talking points, so you can stay "on message" and easily articulate why you are raising the money and how it will be used to benefit students.