Fundraising
For an in-depth understanding of fundraising, see the FINANCE TAB in the "Local Leader's Kit' on the National PTA Website. https://www.pta.org/home/run-your-pta/local-leader-kit-access Set up your free website account and have access to this great resource.
PTA/PTSA raises money for its budgeted programs, events, training, recognition, etc. Raise money to exist as a PTA/PTSA. PTAs do not exist to raise funds! It is not the responsibility of a PTA/PTSA to raise funds for schools, textbooks, and improvements.
The best fundraising activities are those that involve students and their parents and families. Some great activities include:
- Sporting competition between students and teachers
- Carnivals for Halloween, harvest, Christmas, etc.
- Family Christmas tree decorating. (Finished trees could be donated to Sub for Santa)
- Family learning nights with noted speakers dealing specifically with family issues
- A family barbecue after the Homecoming Parade
- Student dances (PTSA members get free or reduced admission)
- School directories to sell to all students (PTSA members get reduced rate)
- PTSA/school-sponsored Battle of the Bands
- Requested monetary or in-kind donations
Non-Fundraising Activities
- Have a “Dads & Donuts,” “Moms & Muffins,” “Parents & Pastries” breakfast
- Have a drawing each month for a prime parking spot. Only PTSA members are eligible
- Have a “Each One, Reach One” recruitment drive in which every student member agrees to bring another student into PTSA
- Decorate student lockers
- Build a homecoming float
- Join important advocacy groups
- Create a citizenship program about the importance of registering to vote and voting
- Assign students to be hosts for PTSA events or meetings
- Have the current copy of National PTA Our Children magazine and Utah PTA newsletter One Voice available for students
Important Legal and Other Issues For Student Leadership
- Students should not sign binding contracts with consultants, businesses, or other entities.
- Students should not receive or disburse funds.
- In matters that involve legal contracts, students should not vote.
- Students should be involved in goal setting.
- Adult leaders should mentor students.
- Leadership opportunities should be developed for students.
- Provide opportunities to engage students in program and event organization.
- Support students in making community connections.
- Students should receive recognition for the work they do.
- Student roles should be clearly defined and communicated.
- Youth should have a designated adult advisor.
- Students should be trained to attain necessary skills to complete assignments.
- While performing PTSA duties, students should be chaperoned.