Choosing a fundraising company is a bit like hiring anyone else who works with your kids and your school's money. You want to know a few things before you hand over the keys.
Every company's sales pitch sounds good, so the pitch itself won't tell you much. These five questions will.
- Do they offer more than one product?A company with one product will always recommend that one product. Someone who carries several can actually match your school instead of selling you the only thing they've got.
- Will they talk in total dollars, not just a percentage?A percentage sounds good on its own, but you want a realistic estimate of the actual money your school will take home. A clear answer is a good sign. A vague one tells you something too.
- Are they local, or a call center?Someone who knows your district, your calendar, and the school across town can steer you around problems a national catalog never sees coming.
- Who handles the headaches?Delivery, sorting, a missing order, a parent complaint. Ask exactly what lands on your volunteers and what the company takes off your plate.
- Do they get the kids excited in person?A live kickoff assembly does more for participation than any flyer sent home. Ask whether someone actually shows up and gets the kids laughing, cheering, and ready to sell. An experienced school entertainer at kickoff can lift the whole fundraiser.
One honest answer beats five polished ones
The company worth hiring will tell you the truth about what works for your school, even when the truth is "run something different than last year." Anyone who says yes to every idea is just trying to make a sale.
I'm James, and I help schools across Dallas and Collin County answer exactly these questions before they sign on with anyone, including me. I rep several programs, I'm local, and I'm happy to give you straight answers.
Call or text 214-546-5769, or reach me through the contact page, and ask me anything on this list.