Elaine Fitzgeorge knows how to get things done – she headed an exemplary fundraising program for a public school in one of Kitchener’s impoverished areas that raised $29,000 in a matter of months. The money was raised to help pay for badly-needed new playground equipment.
Many parents across Ontario know how cash-strapped a public school can be with regards to money for extra-curricular activities, lunch programs and anything over and above the typical operating expenses. So it is remarkable that Fitzgeorge was able to raise the needed funds so quickly.
As president of the school council for Stewart Avenue Public School, Elaine Fitzgeorge, a mother of two, embarked on a two-part fund-raising strategy that created incentives for the community and students to participate. The school council started with a media blitz that included letters and flyer printing to inform local businesses about the need for a new playground. Some businesses, such as Scotiabank, responded by selling chocolates at their branches, raising over $3,000.
Other businesses responded in creative ways. Canadian Tire offered the school council bicycles at a reduced rate and free locks and helmets which Fitzgeorge then used as one of the “prizes” to encourage students to sell more chocolates. Donations from other businesses were also used as prizes. The over-the-top incentive strategy worked, as students raised $12,000 by selling chocolates.
The campaign not only raised the needed funds, but it brought the community together as well. Students, parents and businesses are now engaged in making the Stewart Avenue Public School a rousing success.
