During the holidays, many schools, churches, and groups plan a holiday breakfast with Santa as a fundraiser. In fact, this is one of the simplest and most fun fundraisers you can organize.
Step 1. Select a charity
The first thing you will need is a charity to receive the funds. For me, the best charities to benefit from would be related to children, at least during the holidays. Is there a children’s hospital in your city? Or a mission that helps families?
Of course, Toys for Tots is another charity to consider. Instead of requiring an entrance fee, have each participant bring a new toy to donate.
Step 2. Location and time
Now you can start planning a date and time. Contact local churches and your city offices to see if you can use their facilities for the event. If a place says “no”, keep asking. You will probably need to sign a contract stating that you will follow the rules of the building and that you will clean up after the event. Secure the premises as soon as possible before the event.
Step 3. Find volunteers
Now that you’ve reserved a spot and have your appointment, it’s time to call in the troops. You will need a lot of resources (people and supplies). Hopefully by asking you can find ways to get a lot of both for free.
Some places to contact are:
Local military (if you have a base nearby), high school sports clubs, colleges and universities, local businesses, stores, restaurants, Girl and Boy Scouts, churches, schools, and mom’s clubs.
Of course you need a Santa Claus. Ask around and you will find someone willing to recruit a family member.
Step 4. Determine entertainment and activities
Of course, the main attraction will be Santa and the pancakes. However, if you have a large attendance (and hopefully you will), you’ll want to have other activities planned to entertain the kids while they wait their turn with Santa.
Set up a coloring or craft table for the kids. The games are also fun. Modify the games you know and give them a Christmas touch, like putting the nose on Santa.
Set up a storytelling area. All you will need is a quiet area, some good Christmas books and comfortable cushions.
Photo plane with Santa. Find a local photographer. Let the photographer hold up a billboard and ask him to donate a percentage of sales to your organization. Often photographers are happy for the opportunity.
And of course face paint is a must.
Step 5. Spread the word about your breakfast with Santa fundraiser
Now spread the word to make your event a huge success!
Provide flyers in all of the following places:
Bookstores, Elementary Schools, Supermarkets, Libraries, Preschools and Nurseries.
Also, contact your local newspaper, radio stations, and free family publications. Give the news something positive to report.
That’s all about it. From there, just enjoy your event, knowing that you are doing something wonderful and helping others. Merry Christmas!
No Comment