All school reunion does fundraising
For their all-school reunion, Dana (Indiana) High School alumni artists were invited to bring their creations for an exhibit of their work. Woodworkers, photographers, jewelry makers, poets, authors, inventors, flower designers, clothes, accessory makers and other artists and artisans shared their work. Some items were sold at the discretion of the owners. An alumni Flea Market provided reunion-goers an opportunity to share collectibles and other possessions with old friends. Alumni have been invited to bring baskets, picture frames, glassware, flower pots, garden sculptures and other items.
Linda Thompson Profitt, Dayton, Ohio, a 1952 alumna and chairman of the Arts-Crafts-Hobby and Flea Market, event reported that the activities “captured the imagination and charitable instincts of many of our alumni.”
Classmates autographed two quilts made by a classmate for the Dana All School Reunion. One quilt was raffled and raised $258 for the Dana High School Endowment Fund.
Learn from Class Reunions
Linda Johnson Hoffman and Neal Barnett in The Reunion Planner suggest raffles to make up budget shortfalls. Solicit donations from a fine restaurant or theater for dinners or tickets for two. You can buy rolls of raffle tickets from stationery and office supply stores, and you can offer a mention in your memory book/program in exchange for donations from your sponsors. The mechanics are relatively simple. Sell tickets before and during the reunion; then when you announce the winner, be sure to prominently mention the names of donors. The same book suggests raffling or auctioning centerpieces. Another kind of raffle calls for placing numbered envelopes at each table (same numbers at each table). Ask everyone to place donations in numbered envelopes, then draw one for a winner at each table and donate the rest to the reunion cause.
In How to Organize Your High School Reunion, Glenn A. Jacobs maintains that some costs can be covered by asking for additional donations either in cash or services. An extra financial commitment can come as printing invitations, programs, memory books or newsletters, flowers, decorations, food, beverages, advertising, or newspaper notices. Another way to raise money is to obtain a one-day liquor license for an open bar. In planning an open bar be sure someone agrees in advance to buy leftover liquor.
Freebies for your reunion
While supplies last, back/remainder issues of Reunions magazine are FREE for the asking. Magazines are FREE, packing and shipping is minimal. Contact Karla to learn what it will cost; [email protected] or 414-263-4567. And be sure to ask your convention and visitors bureau about their services and goodies they can share.
Listen for more free stuff!
Listen to “How to fill a reunion goodie bag,” a podcast about ideas for your goodie/welcome reunion bags.
