Effective Fundraising Ideas

Posted by Anne Bermingham
 

Crazy, Creative Fundraising

Ever wondered how other Rotary Clubs in District 7090 raise funds?  There are a lot of effective techniques.  At the District 7090 conference last October, a group of Rotarians got together to share some of these ways.  Here are just some of the ideas that were shared:
 
  • Rotary Club of Grimsby – has an annual Fantasy of Trees.  For two weeks, these beautifully decorated Christmas trees are on display at the Grimsby Museum.  They raffle the trees off and raise $15,000 in one day for the activities of the club. 
  • Rotary Club of Hamilton AM – has an annual BBQ Auction each August.  There are several sponsors and many silent and live auction items.  Around 400 tickets are sold.  They consistently yield $80,000+ from this one event. 
  • The Rotary Club of Grand Island has a Shred It event.  You bring your old financial / tax / personal papers to the central bin.  The event typically raises $5000 a year.
  • The Rotary Club of Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus has a Chili cook-off.  They charge $15 a ticket.  Attendees vote on best chili.  There are sponsors and there is a lot of bragging rights that go to the winners.  They raise $15,000 in this one event.
  • The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise has a Hot Havana Night in June.  They sell 100 tickets at $75 a plate.  Live and silent auction.  Raised $25,000.
  • The Rotary Club of Niagara on the Lake holds an Ice Wine Cocktail Evening at the end of September.  It is catered and usually takes place in a private home.  They sell 100 tickets and raise $20,000. 
  • Rotary Club of Fort Erie has a LobsterFest.  In the first year, they had over 200 people in attendance.  Tickets were $40 a person.  Town contributed hall for free. Big community event.
  • Rotary Club of Ancaster AM puts on Autumn Stroll where ticket holders can stroll through the Dundas Valley Conservation Area and stop at tables to sip wines and experience food creations from local restaurants.  Tickets are $110. Raises $50,000.
  • Rotary Club of Lincoln has a Lamplighter Tour in November of each year.  The participants move from historic site to site – often people’s homes.  They see plays being performed and hear stories being told.  The event showcases the talent and rich heritage and culture of the area while raising $25,000 for the club. 
There are many others from Elimination Draws to Snowmobile Races to Pasta Dinners.  Rotarians are creative and effective when it comes to raising money.