How to Raise Money as a Relay for Life Team

Relay for Life is the signature fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. Good fundraising methods are vital to such a group. The ACS asks each team to raise a minimum of $100 per team member. Check the site ideas for fundraisers first. If none of those work for the group, try some common fundraising ideas.

Instructions

1. Plan one large event instead of having multiple small activities such as a bake sale or a garage sale. Some smaller events can happen on their own time, but the big event needs the most attention and planning time. It will also raise the most money in the shortest time.

2. Prepare a list of large fundraising ideas and let the group vote on the one to pursue. Some general ideas are a golf tournament, a battle of the bands, a concert, a dinner dance, or a raffle. The group has to agree on how much to spend on any such event. Factor the cost against the potential rewards.

3. Pursue sponsors and solicit donations to defer some of the cost. Use the Relay online website, social networking pages and personal contacts.

4. Sell items like luminarias. Almost everyone you talk to will know someone that has had cancer. Luminarias are a way to honor that person.

Tips & Warnings

• Check state laws if you hold a raffle.

References

• Relay for Life
• American Cancer Society
• Relay for Life: Fundraising Do's and Don'ts