ATLANTA – Despite the sluggish economy, support for school and youth group fundraising is strong in the U.S., according to findings from a recent national survey commissioned by the Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers (AFRDS).  Six out of ten adult Americans purchased consumer items, such as gift wrap, food, magazine subscriptions, gift items and other products, to support a school or youth group fundraiser during the 2010-11 school year.  Eight out of 10 parents of school-age children support these types of fundraising programs by purchasing at least one item, while most parents – 66% – actively sold items to help out.

“Supplemental revenue provided by fundraisers is critical for schools and youth programs, especially during tough economic times like we’re experiencing today,” said Jon Krueger, executive director of AFRDS.  More than ever, support for these programs translates into new playgrounds, band uniforms, computer labs, field trips and other products, programs and services that greatly improve young lives.”  According to AFRDS, product sales alone annually contribute $1.4 billion to schools.

The survey of 1,000 Americans was conducted by the market research firm, Synovate.  Other key findings included:

• Americans Know the Importance of School Fundraising – The majority of survey respondents (80%) agree that: “product fundraising sales are an important financial resource for America’s schools and youth groups.”
• It’s for a Good Cause – The number one reason why Americans purchase fundraising items, mentioned by nearly half (44%) of the respondents, is “to support a worthy cause.”  Others purchased fundraising items to support their child’s school (24%) or to support the child of a friend or co-worker (13%).
• Product Satisfaction High – The survey found that most fundraising supporters (86%) were very or somewhat satisfied with the items they purchased.
• Online is Another Option –Among respondents who supported a fundraiser, 9% report that they made their purchase online.

“The data shows that communities are motivated to support school fundraisers but, there is a limit,” Krueger said.  He suggested schools consider limiting the total number of fundraising efforts each and focus on the most effective and efficient programs.

“By putting a greater effort into a fewer number of fundraisers with very specific goals and a wider outreach, schools will find that they can successfully raise the money they need and get greater participation in their fundraisers from school families and the community at large,” Krueger said.

About the Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers
The Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers is an international association of companies that manufacture, supply and distribute products that are re-sold by not-for-profit organizations for fundraising purposes. AFRDS members ascribe to the association’s Code of Ethics and Standards for Professional Practice.  For more information on fundraising, visit www.afrds.org.

FROM THE AFRDS NEWSROOM:

“This new research confirmed our suspicions that product sales are still the best option for school groups looking to raise substantial funds in a short amount of time,” said Vickie Mabry, executive director of AFRDS.  “We learned also that school groups that limit the number of fundraising projects conducted throughout the year tend to earn more money with a single fundraising drive.  That’s probably because their supporters know they’re only going to be tapped a couple of times and, therefore, they’re more willing to reach into their pockets when it counts.”

According to the Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers, schools earn nearly $2 billion each year through product sales.

The online survey of 342 parent-teacher organization members was conducted over the summer.  Other key findings include:

“By putting more effort behind those fundraisers that really count, schools will find that they can better participation and stand a better chance of meeting their fundraising goals,” Mabry said.

The Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers is an international association of 600 companies that manufacture, supply and distribute products that are re-sold by not-for-profit organizations for fundraising purposes. AFRDS members ascribe to the association’s Code of Ethics and Standards for Professional Practice.  For more information on fundraising, visit www.afrds.org.

Association of Fund-Raising Distributors and Suppliers (AFRDS)

Millions of parents and young people participate in product fundraising programs each year. Research has found 75 percent of Americans – and eight out of 10 parents – purchase fundraising products. The vast majority of fundraising sales are made to family and friends. Successful fundraising drives do not rely on children knocking on doors, but rather children and their parents asking for support from family, close neighbors and friends.

Most people agree that product fundraising is an important resource for America’s youth. More than just raising money to pay for valuable programs, a well-run fundraising drive can be an experience that builds self-esteem, provides community service, and promotes school, organization and community spirit.

Schools and organizations can choose from hundreds of fundraising products and programs to maximize their financial return and minimize the time investment for volunteers and advisors. Better still, many products and programs have been tested over time and are reasonably guaranteed to succeed. Behind these successful programs are professionals in product fundraising – companies that thousands of fundraising organizations have come to rely on as partners in meeting their financial goals.

There are more than 1,000 fundraising companies operating in the United States and Canada. Most are local, independent small business owners, mid-size companies with small sales forces or larger regional and national companies with local sales representatives. These companies work directly with schools, parent-teacher groups, booster clubs, church groups, scouting groups and other not-for-profit organizations to help them raise funds. Many have been in business for decades.

As the product fundraising industry matures and more fundraising products, programs and services are introduced, fundraising sponsors have more decisions to make. First, one must understand and follow any special guidelines for fundraising that have been established by the school, principal or community. Then, one must decide which company will best meet the needs of the school. What product(s) will work best as a fundraiser? What incentives might help the sale?