High school fundraisers can be a fun and engaging way to raise money for various activities such as class trips, sports teams, or school events. The key to successful fundraising is creativity—offering something that excites both students and their supporters. To make your next fundraiser memorable and successful, check out these creative and fun ways to raise money for high schoolers.
1. Lip Sync Battle
Turn your school auditorium into a stage for a Lip Sync Battle where students, teachers, and even parents can participate. Contestants perform their favorite songs by lip-syncing, and the audience votes for the best performance. Charge an entry fee for both participants and audience members. You can increase the excitement by offering prizes for the top performers. This event is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a fun way to raise money for your cause.
2. Student vs. Teacher Sports Game
Organize a student vs. teacher sports game, such as basketball, soccer, or volleyball. Charge admission for spectators, and sell refreshments during the event. This type of fundraiser is always a hit because it adds an element of friendly competition and gives students the chance to face off against their favorite (or least favorite!) teachers. To make it even more exciting, allow the audience to pay for special game modifications, like having a teacher play blindfolded or students playing in costumes.
3. Wreath Fundraiser
A wreath fundraiser is a perfect seasonal option, especially during the holidays. Partner with a company like Evergreen Industries to sell beautiful wreaths and holiday decorations. Students can sell the wreaths to friends, family, and neighbors, and a portion of the profits will go toward your fundraising goal. This type of fundraiser is easy to organize, and because people are always looking for festive décor, it tends to sell quickly.
4. Escape Room Challenge
Create an escape room challenge right at your school, with different themed rooms where students must solve puzzles and complete tasks to “escape” within a set time. Charge teams of students and teachers to participate, and offer prizes for the fastest escape. You can design the challenges based on school subjects or even have a pop culture theme. This unique fundraiser provides a mix of excitement, teamwork, and competition.
5. Fashion Show Fundraiser
A student fashion show is a creative and stylish way to raise money while showcasing your peers’ fashion sense. Students can model their own clothing, second-hand outfits, or even school uniforms with a twist. Charge an entry fee for attendees, and offer extra fundraising opportunities by selling refreshments or organizing a silent auction for items donated by local businesses. This event is especially popular for senior class fundraisers or prom committees.
6. Dunk Tank Challenge
A dunk tank is always a favorite at school fundraisers. Rent a dunk tank and allow students to pay for the chance to dunk their teachers or classmates. This is a particularly fun event for end-of-year celebrations or sports team fundraisers. You can add to the excitement by offering “VIP” dunking opportunities, where popular teachers or school staff agree to be dunked for a larger donation.
7. Battle of the Bands
If your school has a lot of talented musicians, a Battle of the Bands is a great way to raise money while showcasing local talent. Bands made up of students, teachers, and even alumni can compete for prizes, and you can charge admission for the audience. To raise even more funds, sell snacks, band merchandise, or allow the audience to pay to vote for their favorite band.
8. Car Smash Fundraiser
This unconventional fundraiser is sure to draw a crowd! For a car smash, you’ll need an old, junked car (donated by a local scrap yard or dealership). Students and staff can pay to take a swing at the car with a sledgehammer. It’s a fun and safe way to release some energy while raising money. Make sure to take the proper safety precautions by providing safety goggles and supervision.
9. Movie Night on the Field
Host a movie night outdoors on the school field. Charge an entry fee and sell snacks like popcorn, candy, and drinks. Let the student body vote on the movie, and encourage everyone to bring blankets and chairs for a cozy evening under the stars. To make the event even more fun, offer themed dress-up opportunities based on the movie being shown.
10. Silent Disco Dance Party
Host a silent disco, where students wear wireless headphones to listen to music instead of blasting it through speakers. Offer multiple music channels so participants can switch between genres, and charge an entry fee to participate. This type of dance party is a fun twist on a traditional school dance and is sure to attract a large crowd. You can also sell glow-in-the-dark accessories or snacks to raise additional funds.
Conclusion:
Fundraising for high schoolers doesn’t have to be boring. These creative and fun ways to raise money will engage students, excite the community, and make fundraising feel less like a chore. From hosting a Lip Sync Battle to organizing a Dunk Tank Challenge, you’ll find the perfect idea to suit your school’s needs. With the right plan and some enthusiastic participation, your next high school fundraiser is bound to be a success!