Earth Friendly Ways to Raise Money

Ruthie Oland
June 4, 2012

Do you sometimes feel that school fundraisers are an assault on your health and wellness?

It's hard to resist when a bright, young person hands you a catalog asking you to help raise money, even when it is full of candy loaded with high-fructose corn syrup, toxic candles, or bad-for-your-waistline frozen baked goods.

But, there's good news. Today there are fundraisers that consider your health, the environment, and Fair Trade. Whether you're raising money for your child's soccer Team or the PTA, one thing is clear: you can support healthier, sustainable communities, while earning profits for your community organization.

While schools are getting ready for summer vacation throughout the country, it's actually the perfect time to plan and develop fundraising programs that will begin in September.

Here are three feel-good fundraising options to consider:

  1. Organic Flower Bulbs
    By selling organic bulbs you help reduce pesticide use, support organic farming, beautify your community, and teach environmental awareness to your children. Sell organic flower bulbs using a colorful brochure and order forms and you can earn 50% profits.
  2. Equal Exchange Fundraiser
    Fair Trade and organic fundraising means kids can promote global citizenship and sustainability in addition to raising money. While other major chocolate producers are under scrutiny for child labor issues, Equal Exchange sources organic chocolate from Fair Trade farms that protect workers from unjust conditions. Besides chocolate bars, Equal Exchange Fundraising also offers organic and Fair Trade coffee, tea, cocoas, olive oil, as well as handmade scarves, jewelry, and toys at a 40% profit. These products make great gifts for the holidays, making this fundraiser perfect for the fall.
  3. Walk-a-thon
    A walk-a-thon or sponsored walk is a type of community or school fundraiser in which participants raise money by collecting donations or pledges for walking a predetermined distance or course. They are similar in format to other physical activity-based fundraising events such marathons and cycling races, but are usually non-competitive and lower intensity. Walk-a-thons are popular for elementary schools because they allow the children to make a visible contribution to their school, they build community, are fun, encourage healthy exercise, and can raise a lot of money.