I don’t need another discount card to get lost in my purse or to bid on a silent auction item that I do not need and frankly can’t afford. There is plenty of pressure to participate in each and every single fundraising effort. If your child is involved in extra-curricular activities, you can bet it isn’t only the PTO.
How do you navigate boundary-setting without damaging relationships? I suggest being very direct. Figure out what you can afford to donate to the child or the school and have an honest conversation. That honest conversation can be between you and your child, your family members, or even the organization hosting the fundraiser.
How to Prioritize Contributions for Fundraising
Think about your contribution as an annual amount. You can decide to give a large sum or divide the amount and contribute fundraiser to fundraiser. You can be intentional about contributing to the fundraiser that impacts the school or the child in the greatest way.
If you don’t need “extra things” like gift wrap or your diet doesn’t do well with butter braids, tell them. Instead, give the organization a direct monetary donation.
Alternative Ways to Support
Support your children (or nieces and nephews) by contributing to their book fair. Most often, the school will get a kickback off of student purchases. While not a formal fundraiser, it is a win-win for all involved.
Offer to share the fundraiser via social media. Provide a few kind words, a link, and offer friends of friends to contribute if they would like to. I am not sure how effective this is, but I imagine it can’t hurt.
What the Heck—Write a Check Fundraiser
Now, this is something I could get behind! What if your school or organization offered the opportunity to opt-out of all fundraisers for the year if you sent a check?
I have seen this exact fundraiser done. The organization suggests a family contribution of $35. Quite a few families send more than the suggested $35. They round up to $40 or justify giving more because they have the means or they have 4 kids. This fundraiser (can we call it a fundraiser?) makes the revenue go directly to the cause and often raises more than the anticipated goal.
What do you think? Would you rather write a check, or should we put you down for some overpriced popcorn?
