How to Fundraise in the Winter

A basket auction is one way to raise funds for a cause.

Fundraising is commonly used by various organizations and groups to accumulate money for new activities, buildings, trips and other ventures. While most people are aware of the usual fundraising ideas such as car washes and bake sales, these are not always practical ideas for raising funds during the winter. In addition, trying new fundraiser ideas can raise more money by compelling people to want to participate in something out of the norm. Try one of these winter fundraisers to raise money for your cause.

Instructions

Polar Bear Plunge

1. Invite friends, coworkers, family members and members of your community to participate in a Polar Bear Plunge fundraiser. Choose a day during the winter when you and the participants will dive into freezing-cold lake, ocean, community pool or pond water wearing only a swimsuit.

2. Ask each participant of the plunge to pay a flat rate to participate. Inform them that the fee for participating is used to help your organization.

3. Solicit donations from businesses and individuals. Ask sponsors to pay a flat donation rate for each minute you spend in the freezing-cold water.

Basket Auction

1. Organize a basket auction. Ask to have the auction in the auditorium or cafeteria of a local school, church or community center. Make the auction Christmas oriented, if desired. For example, auction Christmas-themed baskets and serve Christmas cookies and warm apple cider or hot chocolate to auction guests.

2. Visit local businesses and ask for basket donations. Request a basket that will highlight the business. For example, ask the video store for a video basket with items such as popcorn, movies, free rentals and other movie-related items.

3. Send out invitations, advertise in the local paper or put up flyers at local banks, post offices, schools and other establishments, advertising the date and time of the auction.

4. Sell tickets. Allow people to place their tickets into a bucket or bag in front of each donated basket. At the end of the auction, draw a ticket for each basket.

References

• Fundraiser Insight: Polar Bear Challenge
• Step By Step Fundraising: Creative Silent Auction Baskets