Fundraising Companies and Products - Know Your Choices!
Top Fundraising Sales Ideas - Click here to see how they differ.
Fundraising companies and fundraising products - Let's face it, there are TONS to chose from - you are only limited by your imagination (and your time to research everything!). Product sales are an excellent way to raise money for sports teams, schools and community organizations. Done right, these fundraisers can raise between 40-90% net profit. So homework and fact checking go a long way and will ensure that you won't make judgment errors that may cost your organization later. Examine these areas before you get started. - Establish Your Goals:
List the items or activities (new sporting equipment, uniforms, tournament fees, travel costs, playground equipment, etc.) and the costs associated with each area. Add each of these areas together and you have your total fundraising goal.
- How soon do you need the money?
Since some product sales require longer turn around times for shipping items to you make so sure you understand the timeline associated with each of your options.
- Know your resources, understand your options and ability to fulfill your goals.
Establish if any money needs to be put down up front or if you pay at the time of placing your order. How many volunteers (and volunteer managers...a very important key!) are available? How will the sales be conducted? Do you have an available selling location like a storefront, sporting event, performance venue, church or community activity to host you, etc.? Is there enough time to let your group sell enough product to earn enough money? Time is a very important component to consider.
- Ensure products offer value for your supporters.
Are the products you are considering something your audience (circle of potential supporters) will likely want or need? Are the products priced appropriately? If they are priced too high they will be harder to sell. Ask the supplier for samples before you make your final decision.
- Make Your Decision!
Most good fundraising companies will have fundraising consultants who are knowledgeable about their programs and how best to meet your needs. They can help answer questions about programs with no upfront costs, financing options and cost-free programs. If a fundraising company is pushy or doesn't provide creativity and options for your group...run the other way. There are plenty of great companies to choose from and you deserve a good experience.
- Remember, you can combine programs for greater success. Many programs go well together: cookie dough and scratch cards or raffles and candy bars - be creative to maximize your success.
Select a Reputable Company!
One way is to determine if the company is a member of AFRDS. What is AFRDS? The Association of Fund-Raising Distributors & Suppliers (AFRDS) is an international association devoted exclusively to the product fundraising industry. Its more than 650 member companies manufacture, supply and/or distribute products that are re-sold by not-for-profit organizations for fundraising purposes. AFRDS and its members are dedicated to promoting professionalism and integrity in product fundraising. AFRDS members ascribe to an industry Code of Ethics and Standards for Professional Practice. Members participate annually in AFRDS workshops and seminars to stay current on the latest products, programs, innovations and techniques. You can also obtain a list of AFRDS members offering product fundraising services in your state by writing to AFRDS, 1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 300, Atlanta, Georgia 30342. For more fundraising information, email AFRDS or call (404) 252-3663.Check out their website: It has a lot of great information!
www.AFRDS.com
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