Fundraisers can produce the money needed for special eighth-grade events.
Eighth-grade dances, class trips and graduation ceremonies can be costly. Fundraisers help to cover these costs and can be entertaining and educational for students. Kim Klein, publisher of the "Grassroots Fundraising Journal," stated in a 2004 article, "Too often, people think they can't raise money because they don't know any wealthy philanthropists....Seven out of ten adults give away money. Focus your work on these givers, and help teach young people to become givers."
In-School Fundraisers
Many in-school projects can raise funds for eighth-grade events. For example, you could organize a book fair for which eighth-graders donate books from their reading lists that they will no longer need upon entering high school. Invite younger students to purchase these books. Students can work together to create an eighth-grade scrapbook. Include pictures, favorite memories and advice for younger students, such as choose the right high school. Make these books available for purchase. Eighth-graders will cherish this keepsake, and younger students will appreciate the advice from the exiting class. Sell "candy grams" that students can purchase and deliver to one another. Host a "penny wars" competition among the eighth-grade classes, and reward the winning class with a treat such as a pizza party.
After-School Fundraisers
After-school events, such as talent shows, can be profitable.
Students, parents and faculty can attend after-school fundraising events. Charge admission to talent shows and craft fairs at which students can take pride in earning money and showcase their abilities. Selling concessions at such events will increase profits. Sell raffle tickets for door prizes, such as free tickets to the eighth-grade dance or gift cards.
Teacher Participation
Teachers can volunteer for several fundraising activities, such as a pie-in-the-face event in which students purchase whipped cream pies to throw in the face of a teacher of their choosing. Students will love this activity, whether they throw the pies or simply watch. Teachers can participate alongside students in events such as talent shows and craft fairs, showcasing their own skills. Teacher participation sets a positive example for students about the importance of volunteering for a worthy cause.
Student Participation
Student volunteerism teaches responsibility.
Involve students as much as possible in each fundraising event. It is important for students to participate actively because that will help to prepare them for the responsibilities they will face in high school. Duties such as selling and delivering candy grams, organizing books for a book fair and selling concessions and raffle tickets will give them a sense of accomplishment and strengthen their mathematical, organizational and social skills.
Tags: high school, students purchase, talent shows, younger students, book fair, candy grams, craft fairs