How to Plan a Successful Scout Troop Fundraising Event

If you or your child have every been involved with Scouting, you have probably been involved with fundraising. Scout troops are always in need of money for events or equipment, and fundraising projects offer a way to raise the money and teach the kids about responsibility at the same time. While some fundraisers, such as Girl Scout Cookies, are easy, finding other ways to raise money can be challenging. Check out some great ideas below to help you plan your next Scout troop fundraiser.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scout Troop
• Involved Parents
• Internet Access is Helpful

1. Hold a Car Wash.
   This is one of the old standby fundraisers, but still worth the effort. If properly planned and executed, a good car wash can bring in big money for your troop. Some of the key points of a good car wash are finding a high-visibility location, advertising/promotion and execution. Talk with local business owners who could offer access to a parking lot on a major road or help with promotion. Also, be sure to get all of your troop members to promote the event to their friends and family.

2. Product Sales.
   As mentioned, Girl Scouts have a bit of an advantage with this, as everyone seems to love cookies. Fortunately, troops can find other products which can be nearly as profitable. Check the Internet for items such as prepackaged spices, batteries, popcorn or other stuff that is offered for non-profit fundraising. Many of these programs even offer online ordering or catalog sales to make things easier.

3. Troop "Dine Out" Evenings.
   Talk with local restaurant owners about a fundraising evening for your troop. Simply promote the designated evening to your troop members and their family and friends, promoting the restaurant as well. Most owners will contribute a portion of any income from your troop involvement as a way to raise funds for your troop.

4. Recycle.
   There are a lot of programs which will help recycle ink cartridges, cell phones, cans and other items in exchange for cash. This is a great way to raise money for your troop without asking for actual cash.

5. Sell Coupon Books.
   There are several national coupon book manufacturers which offer fundraising opportunities to non-profit groups. Since the value of the coupons in the book is usually more than the purchase price, it can be an easy sale. If you have the resources and motivation, check with local merchants about producing you own local coupon book, which can dramatically increase your profit margin.

6. Parent's Night Out.
   Have your troop plan a night of food, entertainment and fun for younger kids. Most parents are willing to shell out good money for quality child sitting services so that they can enjoy a night alone.

Tips & Warnings

• Try pre-selling tickets for your car wash to help boost sales.
• Check with your host church or organization for possible space to host your Parent's Night Out.
• Use your troop website to promote your events.
• Keep your fundraising events all cash. Credit card processing fees can really eat into your profits.
• Check on insurance and liability issues before scheduling car washes or other big events.

Resources

• Florida Scouting
• Fundraising Ideas