ragschef
- 698
How Do You Get People to Book Fundraisers? I'm Having the Hardest Time
- Thread starter ragschef
- Start date
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- Tags
- book fundraisers people
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Discussion Overview
This thread explores the challenges and strategies participants face in booking fundraisers as Pampered Chef consultants. Various personal experiences and methods for promoting fundraisers are shared, highlighting both successes and difficulties encountered in the process.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses difficulty in marketing fundraisers, particularly during the holiday season, and seeks advice on how to increase bookings.
- Another participant shares their experience of stopping fundraiser marketing due to low interest, noting that previous attempts to reach out to local schools yielded no responses.
- One participant mentions keeping a fundraiser breakdown profit page handy and offering a percentage of their commission to make fundraisers more appealing.
- Another participant discusses their strategy of promoting fundraisers at shows and engaging guests about their involvement in local groups, suggesting that this approach has been effective for them.
- Several participants request examples of cover letters used for fundraising, indicating a desire to learn from others' experiences.
- One participant describes successfully organizing multiple fundraisers by focusing on community needs rather than just profit percentages, highlighting the importance of helping local organizations.
- Another participant notes frustration with the competition from other fundraising products that offer higher percentages, suggesting that product perception may impact interest in Pampered Chef fundraisers.
- One participant mentions the idea of offering more than just monetary donations, emphasizing the value of time and expertise in supporting fundraising efforts.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ significantly among participants regarding the effectiveness of current fundraising strategies and the appeal of Pampered Chef products compared to other fundraising options. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach to securing bookings.
Contextual Notes
Participants share a range of experiences, from those who have successfully organized multiple fundraisers to those who have faced challenges in generating interest. The discussion reflects a variety of strategies and personal insights into the fundraising process within the Pampered Chef community.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants looking for ideas and experiences related to booking fundraisers may find this discussion helpful, particularly those seeking to enhance their outreach and marketing strategies.
jrstephens
- 7,085
I cannot get a fundrasier b/c our percentages are so bad that no one wants to do them. I stopped marketing them and will just mention them if I am around somone who might be intersted. At first I sent letters and catalogs to local schools but when that got zero response after a couple of tries I stopped wasting my catalogs.
riggs62
- 310
I haven't had one yet, but I have one that will go in Spring. I keep a fundraiser breakdown profit page with a cover letter in my car and anytime I see a car wash or yard sale fundraiser, I give out the info to them.
I have offered to donate a % of commission based on sales I think that makes it more appealing. I mainly want to do a fundraiser for the contacts that I wouldn't have otherwise had, so giving a little % of my profits are ok by me.
HTH
I have offered to donate a % of commission based on sales I think that makes it more appealing. I mainly want to do a fundraiser for the contacts that I wouldn't have otherwise had, so giving a little % of my profits are ok by me.
HTH
jwpamp
- 1,614
I usually try to have at least one fundraiser going per month. I talk them up at my shows, ask my guests at checkout what groups they are involved in and suggest that we do a fundraiser to raise money for them.
They are really easy to do -- I pack a catalog, cover letter and 10 order forms in a manilla envelope with a Pampered Chef sticker on the outside of it. Each participant gets one. I make myself available to speak to the group, but haven't had many ask me to....everyone knows how to collect orders!
Talk it up, look in newspapers for groups that meet locally and call them -- MOPS, TOPS, community center groups, schools, etc.
It takes a little work to get the word out, but it's well worth it -- they are really easy money!
If it's a worth while cause (ACS or similar), I give an additional 5% of my own commission.
I let everyone know that our fundraisers don't carry a huge markup and that 75% of our catalog is under $20 so many can afford to order. I get really excited about the prospect of helping the organization, too. That gets them even more excited.
They are really easy to do -- I pack a catalog, cover letter and 10 order forms in a manilla envelope with a Pampered Chef sticker on the outside of it. Each participant gets one. I make myself available to speak to the group, but haven't had many ask me to....everyone knows how to collect orders!
Talk it up, look in newspapers for groups that meet locally and call them -- MOPS, TOPS, community center groups, schools, etc.
It takes a little work to get the word out, but it's well worth it -- they are really easy money!
If it's a worth while cause (ACS or similar), I give an additional 5% of my own commission.
I let everyone know that our fundraisers don't carry a huge markup and that 75% of our catalog is under $20 so many can afford to order. I get really excited about the prospect of helping the organization, too. That gets them even more excited.
Last edited:
PChefPEI
Silver Member
- 2,144
I haven't done many fundraisers either and would like to do more. I was thinking about doing letters for different organizations and I find it funny that you had low response, Jennifer!
I like the idea of trying to have one a month going. That's a nice goal! Maybe I will add that to my goals list.
I would love to see a sample cover letter too, please!
I like the idea of trying to have one a month going. That's a nice goal! Maybe I will add that to my goals list.
I would love to see a sample cover letter too, please!
Denarella
- 907
Karo
Gold Member
- 48
I will do my 5th fundraiser this year on December 1st and I've done one a month since school started. They are easy to find if you focus on helping to fill a need and not on the percentage. Schools are GREAT because there is always a need. The FR for my son's HS Chorus involved the September cookbook sale. Kids sold the cookbooks for $15 and kept the difference between the $10 cost and their sales, they then got a fundraising check from HO which put them at nearly $700... much better than the candle lady who came right on my heels offering a 40% profit to sell her products. BTW - The 60% off host special they chose was the $145 Roaster and Rack which the Chorus Boosters bought and we will fill with product and grocery gift certificates to be auctioned at their Silent Auction in the spring.
How many of you are asked for donations? I am taking a booth at a Christian school's fall festival Saturday. They asked me to donate something to the silent auction, instead I offered to hold a fundraiser and all purchases made that day at my booth would go to their fundraiser. Since I needed a host/chairperson, one of the mom's volunteered and I said it was a shame this could not continue through the end of the month... she said the Senior class needs money for their spring trip so now Seniors will be spreading my handouts through the crowd directing people to my booth and for the rest of the month they will be selling to their parents and grandparents for me.
A woman I used to know contacted me to support her fundraising walk for the American Stroke Association... I said I was not in a position to give her money, but I would be very happy to hold a fundraiser for her cause. She never heard of Pampered Chef but is jumping for joy & inviting 100 people to our fundraiser on December 1st. We will be raffling off a Small Batter Bowl filled with Celebration Cookie mix and decorated with ribbon as we do the Homemade for the Holidays show.
I've learned to handle every request for a donation with an offer to give them more than money... my time, my expertise, my great products and above all FUN. It's hard to raise money these days and everyone appreciates help. Look for ways to help them and make it fun in the process and you can't go wrong.
How many of you are asked for donations? I am taking a booth at a Christian school's fall festival Saturday. They asked me to donate something to the silent auction, instead I offered to hold a fundraiser and all purchases made that day at my booth would go to their fundraiser. Since I needed a host/chairperson, one of the mom's volunteered and I said it was a shame this could not continue through the end of the month... she said the Senior class needs money for their spring trip so now Seniors will be spreading my handouts through the crowd directing people to my booth and for the rest of the month they will be selling to their parents and grandparents for me.
A woman I used to know contacted me to support her fundraising walk for the American Stroke Association... I said I was not in a position to give her money, but I would be very happy to hold a fundraiser for her cause. She never heard of Pampered Chef but is jumping for joy & inviting 100 people to our fundraiser on December 1st. We will be raffling off a Small Batter Bowl filled with Celebration Cookie mix and decorated with ribbon as we do the Homemade for the Holidays show.
I've learned to handle every request for a donation with an offer to give them more than money... my time, my expertise, my great products and above all FUN. It's hard to raise money these days and everyone appreciates help. Look for ways to help them and make it fun in the process and you can't go wrong.
kspry
- 986
jrstephens said:
This drives me nuts! My son's school sells trashbags and Sally Something giftwrap for PTA, his scout troop sells popcorn, with around a 30% "commission" or "donation".
Hello, hardly anyone buys a bag of popcorn at $8 a pop for what you can get in the grocery store for $3. When they do, they feel like they're giving to charity. Likewise, with the overpriced candy bars I see kids selling in the neighborhood.
I am still working on the school PTA about that giftwrap. If they would just let me try a PC fundraiser once, I think they'd see how much more they would actually get funded!
The percentage is not the problem; their current product is the problem.
It's a hurdle to be overcome.
kspry
- 986
bsaxman
Silver Member
- 549
Make sure you have a box on your drawing slip or guest survey that the guests can indictate they want more info on fundraisers! I just got someone yesterday that checked the "fundraiser" box so I am going to follow up with a call and get some info to her! Hopefully it turns out to a real FUNDRAISER! I can't wait!
lkprescott
Silver Member
- 1,232
Fundraisers are something I definitely want to try to do. I've got a list of about a dozen local organizations locally that I know could benefit. Figure on sending something out to their fundraiser committee and follow up with phone calls... I'd love to do one a month. I'm not targeting schools though... I know our HSA chapter is very happy with the Cherrydale fundraiser they do and they LOVE the percentage and aren't likely to change that... so I've gotten some other places including the local SPCA and animal rescues (who are always cash strapped)... daycares and other places that are always looking to make money... I'm also keeping an eye out for folks who are hosting 'beef n beers' or car washes for various folks and groups... figure it can't hurt to get creative and well, the size of our schools scares me from the idea of doing a fundraiser that way anyway. LOL... each school does what it wants to raise funds so I'd have 7 elementaries right there but the thought is daunting with just the number of envelopes needed.. in time perhaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some effective ways to approach potential fundraiser hosts?
Start by identifying individuals or groups that are passionate about a cause. Reach out to them personally, either through a phone call or a face-to-face meeting, to discuss the benefits of hosting a fundraiser. Highlight how easy it is to organize and how it can help their cause while also providing them with quality products. Personal connections often yield better results than generic outreach.
How can I promote the benefits of hosting a fundraiser?
When discussing fundraisers, emphasize the advantages such as no upfront costs, the ability to earn free products, and the chance to support a cause they care about. Share success stories from previous fundraisers to illustrate how much money can be raised and how enjoyable the process can be. Providing a clear outline of what’s involved can also alleviate any concerns they may have.
What types of organizations or causes are best for fundraisers?
Consider targeting local schools, sports teams, charities, or community organizations. These groups often have a strong network of supporters who are willing to participate in fundraising efforts. Additionally, seasonal events like holidays or back-to-school can be great opportunities to suggest fundraisers that align with their needs.
How can I make my fundraising pitch more appealing?
Tailor your pitch to the specific interests and needs of the potential host. Use visuals, such as product samples or brochures, to make your presentation more engaging. Offer to assist with the planning and execution of the fundraiser, which can make it less intimidating for them. Also, consider providing incentives for the host, such as bonus products or discounts based on the amount raised.
What should I do if I get a 'no' from a potential host?
Don't be discouraged by a rejection; it’s a common part of the process. Ask for feedback on their decision to understand their concerns better. This can provide valuable insights for your future pitches. Additionally, keep the lines of communication open and check back in with them in the future, as their circumstances may change, making them more open to hosting later on.
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