How to Get Free Magazines for Donations

Selling magazine subscriptions can be a great fundraiser.

Whether you are searching for magazines for a school-wide art project or need a product to sell for a fundraiser, finding free magazines for donations can be a difficult task. However, magazines work well for art projects, particularly for kindergarten to grade 12 students, and subscriptions are a welcome change from selling wrapping paper and baked goods, the two traditional fundraising products. To get free magazines for donations, don't be afraid to ask for help and to think creatively.

Instructions

1. Decide what you need. Before approaching anybody, make sure you know exactly what you would like to be donated and how many magazines you need. If you are looking for old or used magazines for a project, consider the number of students who will be working on this project. Similarly, if you would like to sell donated magazine subscriptions, estimate how many people might subscribe based on the size of your community and the number of participants in previous fundraisers.

2. Approach local businesses. While large corporations may have more money, they are also less likely to care about your community's particular needs. Whether you need remaindered magazines for art projects (and don't care how old or used the magazines are) or are searching for donations of subscriptions, your best bet is to find a magazine published locally. Many communities, including smaller towns and suburbs, have a local magazine covering regional events and people.

3. Create a proposal for local businesses. Introduce yourself and your project. If you work as a teacher or on behalf of another organization, make sure to state this immediately. Describe the project you have in mind and its projected affect on your community. Ask for the contribution you need, being clear to explain the benefits to your organization as well as to the donor. You might offer to put their logo on all publicity materials, for example.

4. Follow up with the businesses. Wait at least a week after you've sent out your materials, then call your contact at the organization you've approached. Be polite and simply state that you want to touch base regarding the proposal you sent last week. If the company is interested, proceed to talk about the logistics of your magazine donation; if they are not, search for other local publications to approach.

References

• FastTrack Funding: Asking for Donations