Education is the fastest growing category on GoFundMe, and it’s no surprise: We know that teachers and schools can always use more support. NPR reported that teachers usually spend around $1,000 a year out of pocket for necessary classroom supplies. Teachers shouldn’t be forced to dip into their own pockets to ensure their students have the supplies they need for success.
When it comes to classroom fundraising, you can raise funds for classroom materials, after-school programs, field trips, or anything else that helps students learn. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, parent, or a student, we’re excited to help you get the funding you need. Use our classroom fundraising tips to help set your fundraiser up for success.
In your fundraiser description, tell us why you’re raising funds and about the classroom you hope to support. What is special about the teacher or the students? What are you proud of and want people to know? How will these funds make an impact in the students’ lives?
The best education fundraisers share love for the students and teachers right in the description. Include as much heart and soul as possible, so donors get a real sense of what their donation will be supporting. For in-depth tips, read Your Fundraiser Story: A Comprehensive Guide.
Donors love to see photos and videos of students, teachers, and classrooms. If possible, include an informal video that helps explain what the funds will go toward—and if you have permission, include the students. Adding a personal touch makes all the difference in building support for your fundraiser.
Some schools and districts have procedures they require for how money is ultimately routed to the school. Talk with school leadership to determine the best place for the funds to be withdrawn so that your fundraiser is in accordance with their guidelines.
Our Happiness team can help a financial administrator of your school or district withdraw the funds directly if you as a parent, teacher, or student are aware you should not withdraw them personally. Just reach out to contact us.
We’ve found that there is a lot of enthusiasm for education fundraisers. Donors are glad to have the opportunity to contribute to a specific class or project, so please don’t feel shy about sharing the fundraiser with community members, in addition to your network of friends and family. Consider sharing on social media, via email, and in person.
Encourage your connections to share the fundraiser, even if they aren’t able to contribute themselves. You may be surprised by the people who want to donate to your fundraiser.
Organizers of education fundraisers are in a unique position to say thanks using messages, photos, or video from those who benefited from the fundraiser. Send personal thank-you messages to your supporters so they know what a difference they made. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our post 20 Affordable Ways to Say Thank You to Donors.
Ease a teacher’s stress by helping raise funds for their classroom. That way they can focus on giving their students the best education possible. If you haven’t already, start your fundraiser today.