Fundraising

There are many places and many ways to obtain funding for the trip to Global Finals. Here are a few suggestions:

School-related Funding Sources

• Board of Education and/or Principal’s Funds
  Some schools and/or school districts have “discretionary funds” to pay for the cost of an athletic team, the band, etc. going to a competition. If you approach your School Board (sometimes directly and sometimes through your Principal, depending on your school district), you could potentially receive a donation and/or even full financial support. School systems are usually very proud of academic teams advancing to Global Finals.
• PTA Groups, Service Organizations, Local Businesses
  There are other community groups and organizations that may be willing to help you and your team. PTAs (Parent-Teacher Associations) and PTOs (Parent-Teacher Organizations) often donate funds to groups of students who have earned the right to attend higher-level competitions or conferences. In addition, service organizations, such as the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, and Chamber of Commerce, also have been known to sponsor and/or donate funds to teams attending Global Finals. The important thing is that you approach them with a full presentation of your needs. Explain to them what Destination ImagiNation is about and how and why it is valuable to you and your teams, as well as to the community.

Local Businesses

Local businesses where the team’s parents, grandparents, friends of family and other acquaintances work are often potential sources of funds. Many businesses have community funds for which an employee can apply. Encourage your team members’ parents to explore whether their employers have money available for community projects.

Other Fundraising Options

• Sell candy bars
• Garage sale
• Bike-A-Thon, Swim-A-Thon or Run-A-Thon       
• Car wash   
• Concession stand at an event
• Spaghetti dinner or Pancake breakfast

Thank-you Notes

Make sure to thank every donor with a thank-you letter and then thank them publicly as much as possible (via newsprint, sign in a public place, etc.). Thank-you notes are very important!