Introduction

Private schools are renowned for their commitment to providing high-quality education and creating nurturing environments for students to thrive. However, the pursuit of educational excellence often comes with financial challenges. Tuition fees, while crucial, may not always cover the full spectrum of expenses required to maintain top-notch facilities, attract talented educators, and provide a rich array of extracurricular activities.

In this modern educational landscape, private schools have discovered that Fundraising is not just a financial necessity but a multifaceted strategy that fosters a sense of community, engagement, and shared responsibility. Fundraising transcends the mere act of collecting monetary donations; it embodies the spirit of collective commitment to a shared vision of providing the best possible education for students.
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The Significance of Fundraising for Private Schools

Fundraising is the lifeblood that empowers private schools to bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the actual cost of delivering an exceptional education. It offers a lifeline for schools to maintain their high standards, realize their innovative educational visions, and invest in the growth and well-being of their students.

Yet, the significance of fundraising goes beyond financial gains. It serves as a powerful catalyst for community-building, forging bonds between students, parents, alumni, teachers, and the wider community. It rallies individuals around a common cause, fostering a deep sense of pride and involvement in the school’s mission.
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The Diverse Fundraising Landscape

The landscape of fundraising for private schools is as diverse as the schools themselves. No longer limited to traditional bake sales or charity auctions, private schools now have a wide array of creative fundraising options at their disposal. These innovative methods go beyond the conventional, tapping into the passions and interests of their community members.

In this article, we will explore 20 creative fundraising ideas designed specifically for private schools. From organizing exhilarating fun run events to hosting elegant gala dinners and auctions, and from leveraging the power of online catalog fundraisers to embracing the delicious world of cookie dough fundraisers, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of strategies to suit every school’s unique needs and preferences.

As we delve into each of these fundraising methods, you’ll discover not only the how-to but also the why behind these creative approaches. We’ll share tips, insights, and success stories to inspire and guide you on your fundraising journey. Ultimately, we aim to encourage private schools to diversify their fundraising efforts, embarking on a path that leads to financial stability, community growth, and an unwavering commitment to providing the best education possible.

So, let’s embark on this exciting journey, exploring innovative fundraising ideas that will not only secure the necessary resources but also strengthen the bonds within your school community, ensuring a brighter future for your institution and its students.
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1. Organize Fun Run Events

What is a Fun Run Fundraiser? A fun run fundraiser combines fitness and fundraising. Participants gather pledges or pay a registration fee to run a designated distance, promoting a healthy lifestyle while raising funds.

Planning a Successful Fun Run For Private Schools

• Choose a scenic route.
• Promote early registration.
• Offer incentives like medals or T-shirts.
• Utilize online platforms for easy registration and donations.
• Encourage friendly competition.

Fun run fundraisers aren’t just about running; they’re about creating a sense of camaraderie and community involvement. These events not only encourage physical activity but also foster a spirit of healthy competition among participants. By carefully planning and promoting your fun run, you can turn it into a memorable fundraising experience.

A fun run fundraiser is a holistic event that promotes physical well-being, community engagement, and fundraising. To maximize its impact, select a picturesque route that appeals to participants, encourage early registration to build anticipation, and provide incentives like medals or T-shirts to reward their efforts. Leveraging online platforms for registration and donations simplifies the process and widens your reach.
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2. Host Gala Dinners and Auctions

The Appeal of Gala Dinners Gala dinners exude elegance and offer a chance for supporters to dress up and socialize. They create a sense of prestige around your private schools fundraising efforts.

Steps to Organize a Memorable Gala For Private Schools

• Secure a suitable venue.
• Curate an enticing menu.
• Incorporate entertainment or guest speakers.
• Set up silent and live auctions.
• Promote the event through invitations and social media.

Gala dinners and auctions add a touch of glamour to your fundraising efforts. These events not only raise funds but also provide an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate the school’s achievements, and contribute to its growth. The success of such events lies in meticulous planning and creating an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Gala dinners and auctions offer a unique opportunity for supporters to come together in an elegant and celebratory atmosphere. Securing a suitable venue that aligns with the event’s theme is essential. A carefully curated menu, coupled with engaging entertainment or guest speakers, can enhance the overall experience. Incorporating both silent and live auctions provides diverse options for supporters to contribute, and effective promotion ensures a strong turnout.
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3. Run Raffles and Prize Drawings

Effectiveness of Raffles Raffles are a time-tested fundraising method that can generate excitement and revenue. Participants purchase tickets for a chance to win prizes.

Legal and Engaging Raffle Campaigns For Private Schools

• Comply with local laws and regulations.
• Offer attractive prizes.
• Promote tickets through various channels.
• Announce winners and show transparency.

Raffles are a classic fundraising choice, offering participants a chance to win prizes while supporting your school. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your raffle campaigns adhere to legal guidelines and offer enticing rewards to maximize participation and enthusiasm.

Raffles inject an element of excitement into your fundraising efforts, as participants eagerly anticipate the chance to win valuable prizes. To conduct successful raffles, it’s imperative to adhere to local laws and regulations governing such events. Offering attractive prizes is key to motivating ticket sales, and strategic promotion across various channels can boost participation. Transparency in announcing winners builds trust and credibility.
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4. Create Unique Fundraising Merchandise

Custom Merchandise World Designing and selling custom merchandise can be a fun and profitable venture. From branded apparel to mugs and tote bags, there are countless options.

Design and Promotion Tips For Private Schools

• Ensure high-quality designs.
• Use your school’s logo and colors.
• Offer limited-edition items.
• Utilize e-commerce platforms for sales.
• Promote merchandise through your school’s website and events.

Custom merchandise allows your supporters to show their school spirit while contributing to fundraising efforts. To make this venture successful, focus on creating eye-catching designs, promoting your merchandise effectively, and providing high-quality products that resonate with your audience.

Custom merchandise offers a tangible way for supporters to express their affinity for your school while contributing to its financial well-being. When designing merchandise, prioritize high-quality materials and attractive designs that incorporate your school’s logo and colors. Offering limited-edition items can create a sense of exclusivity, and utilizing e-commerce platforms streamlines sales and order fulfillment. Promoting merchandise through your school’s website and events ensures visibility among your community.
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5. Partner with Local Businesses

Benefits of Local Business Collaborations Collaborating with local businesses is a win-win. It supports your school’s fundraising efforts while boosting the visibility and reputation of local businesses.

Strategies for Fruitful Partnerships For Private Schools

• Identify businesses with shared values.
• Explore sponsorship opportunities.
• Promote local businesses through your school’s events and platforms.
• Express gratitude through recognition.

Partnering with local businesses can strengthen your community ties and provide valuable resources for fundraising. It’s essential to build mutually beneficial relationships, where both your school and local businesses can thrive together.

Collaborating with local businesses fosters a sense of unity within your community while bolstering your school’s financial resources. When seeking partnerships, prioritize businesses that align with your school’s values and mission, as shared values can lead to more meaningful collaborations. Exploring sponsorship opportunities allows businesses to showcase their support while gaining exposure at your school’s events and through its communication channels. Expressing gratitude and recognition for their contributions reinforces the symbiotic relationship between your school and local businesses.
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6. Launch Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Campaigns

The Power of Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Peer-to-peer fundraising empowers individuals to raise funds on your school’s behalf, expanding your reach exponentially.

Steps to Success For Private Schools

• Choose a user-friendly online platform.
• Encourage personal stories.
• Set clear fundraising goals.
• Offer incentives for top fundraisers.
• Provide toolkits and resources.

Peer-to-peer fundraising leverages the networks of your supporters to reach a broader audience. By providing the right tools, incentives, and support, you can empower individuals to become passionate advocates for your school’s cause.

Peer-to-peer fundraising harnesses the collective influence of your supporters to amplify your fundraising reach. Selecting a user-friendly online platform streamlines the fundraising process, making it accessible to a wide range of participants. Encouraging individuals to share personal stories about why they support your school adds authenticity and emotional appeal to their campaigns. Clear fundraising goals provide focus and motivation, while incentives recognize and reward top fundraisers. Offering toolkits and resources equips participants with the necessary materials to launch successful fundraising campaigns.
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7. Explore Fall Catalog Fundraisers

Introduction to Fall Catalog Fundraisers: Fall catalog fundraisers offer a variety of products for supporters to purchase. They’re especially popular during the holiday season.

Popular Fall Catalog Items For Private Schools

• Gourmet chocolates.
• Gift wrap and holiday décor.
• Candles and kitchen items.
• Customizable products.
• Specialty snacks.

Fall catalog fundraisers coincide with the festive season, making them a favorite among supporters. Offering a diverse range of high-quality products can maximize your sales and fundraising potential during this time of year.

Fall catalog fundraisers embrace the spirit of giving during the holiday season while supporting your school’s financial needs. To make the most of these fundraisers, curate a selection of products that cater to diverse tastes, ranging from gourmet chocolates to customizable items that resonate with your supporters. The festive ambiance during this time creates a natural opportunity for increased sales and engagement.
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8. Engage in Spring Catalog Fundraisers

The Appeal of Spring Catalog Fundraisers: Spring catalog fundraisers bring a touch of freshness and renewal to fundraising efforts. They often feature seasonal products.

Ideas for Spring-Themed Products For Private Schools

• Gardening kits.
• Flower bulbs.
• Eco-friendly products.
• Outdoor activity gear.
• Spring fashion accessories.

Spring catalog fundraisers capture the spirit of renewal and growth. By aligning your product offerings with the season, you can cater to the changing interests and needs of your supporters.

Spring catalog fundraisers embrace the essence of renewal and growth that comes with the season. To make the most of these fundraisers, feature products that align with spring themes, such as gardening kits, flower bulbs, and eco-friendly items. Spring’s outdoor allure can also be tapped into with outdoor activity gear and spring fashion accessories. By offering products that resonate with the season, you can engage your supporters effectively.
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9. Bake Sale Bonanza

Classic Bake Sale Fundraiser: Bake sales have a timeless appeal, filling the air with the aroma of freshly baked goods. They’re ideal for involving students and parents.

Delicious Bake Sale Recipes and Tips For Private Schools

• Offer a variety of treats.
• Display items attractively.
• Set competitive prices.
• Promote in advance.
• Share recipes and success stories.

Bake sales are not just about delicious treats; they’re about building a sense of community and involving students and parents in the fundraising process. To make your bake sale successful, consider offering a variety of mouthwatering treats and promoting it effectively within and beyond your school community.

Bake sales are a cherished tradition in the fundraising world, tantalizing taste buds with an array of delectable treats. To ensure a successful bake sale, offer a diverse selection of baked goods, ranging from cookies to brownies and savory options. Displaying these items attractively can entice potential buyers, while competitive pricing encourages sales. Effective promotion, both within your school community and beyond, helps draw in a wider audience. Sharing recipes and success stories from previous bake sales can also generate excitement and anticipation.
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10. Get Creative with Art Shows

The uniqueness of Art-Themed Fundraisers: Art shows are creative and a means of showcasing your school’s talents. They can attract a diverse audience.

Steps to Organize an Art Show For Private Schools

• Choose a theme or format.
• Promote student and community involvement.
• Arrange for display space.
• Plan an opening night reception.
• Consider online art auctions.

Art shows provide a platform for your school to showcase the creative talents of your students and the broader community. By carefully planning the event and involving various stakeholders, you can create an art show that engages both art enthusiasts and supporters of your school.

Art-themed fundraisers, such as art shows, celebrate creativity while supporting your school’s mission. When organizing an art show, selecting a compelling theme or format can add depth and intrigue to the event. Encouraging active participation from students and the community ensures a diverse range of artworks. Securing suitable display space and planning an engaging opening night reception can elevate the experience for attendees. In the digital age, considering online art auctions expands the reach of your art-themed fundraiser.
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11. Online Catalog Fundraisers

Advantages of Online Catalog Fundraisers: Online catalog fundraisers offer convenience and a broader reach in the digital age. Supporters can browse and purchase products online.

Platforms and Strategies for Online Success For Private Schools

• Choose a user-friendly e-commerce platform.
• Promote via email and social media.
• Offer exclusive online discounts.
• Provide secure payment options.
• Track and analyze online sales.

Online catalog fundraisers offer the convenience of online shopping while supporting your school’s cause. To excel in this digital space, focus on selecting the right platform, promoting your catalog effectively through various online channels, and optimizing the user experience for your supporters.

Online catalog fundraisers embrace the digital age, offering supporters the convenience of browsing and purchasing products online. To succeed in this space, selecting a user-friendly e-commerce platform is essential. Promoting your catalog through email and social media ensures that it reaches a wide audience. Offering exclusive online discounts incentivizes online shopping, while secure payment options inspire trust. Regularly tracking and analyzing online sales data helps refine your strategies for maximum effectiveness.
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12. Mobilize Parents and Alumni

Involving Parents and Alumni: Engaging parents and alumni can foster a sense of community and loyalty while boosting fundraising efforts.

Effective Communication and Engagement For Private Schools

• Create dedicated parent and alumni groups.
• Organize exclusive events.
• Share success stories and impact.
• Seek input and feedback.
• Express appreciation through recognition.

Parents and alumni are valuable stakeholders in your school’s fundraising journey. By actively involving them, creating meaningful engagement opportunities, and expressing your gratitude for their support, you can build lasting relationships that benefit both your school and its community.

Parents and alumni represent a treasure trove of support and connections that can significantly impact your fundraising efforts. Establishing dedicated parent and alumni groups fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Exclusive events create opportunities for interaction and networking while showcasing the school’s achievements and impact through success stories can inspire continued support. Seeking input and feedback from these groups ensures that your fundraising strategies align with their interests and preferences. Expressing gratitude through recognition reinforces the bond between your school and its dedicated supporters.
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13. Create Crowdfunding Campaigns

Power of Crowdfunding for Private Schools: Crowdfunding leverages the collective support of individuals to achieve fundraising goals efficiently.

Guide to a Compelling Crowdfunding Campaign For Private Schools

• Choose the right crowdfunding platform.
• Craft a compelling story.
• Set realistic funding goals.
• Offer enticing rewards.
• Leverage social media for promotion.

Crowdfunding campaigns harness the power of the crowd to fundraise for your school’s initiatives. Success in crowdfunding hinges on selecting the right platform, telling a compelling story that resonates with potential supporters, and effectively utilizing social media to amplify your reach and impact.

Crowdfunding campaigns have emerged as a dynamic and efficient way to garner support for your school’s projects and initiatives. The choice of a crowdfunding platform is pivotal, with options tailored to different needs and audiences. Crafting a compelling narrative that conveys your school’s mission and impact is essential to inspire donors. Setting realistic funding goals and offering attractive rewards encourage participation. Leveraging the reach of social media by sharing your campaign and engaging with potential supporters amplifies its visibility and success.
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14. Explore Popcorn Fundraisers

Dive into Popcorn Fundraisers: Popcorn fundraisers offer a savory twist to fundraising, delighting supporters with a variety of popcorn flavors and packaging options.

Popular Popcorn Flavors and Ideas For Private Schools

• Classic buttery popcorn.
• Gourmet flavors like caramel and cheddar.
• Popcorn tins for gifting.
• Personalized popcorn labels.
• Themed popcorn fundraisers.

Popcorn fundraisers appeal to snack enthusiasts and offer a unique fundraising experience. To make the most of this fundraiser, explore various flavors and packaging options, and create themes that resonate with your target audience.

Popcorn fundraisers are a delicious and novel way to engage your supporters. A diverse selection of popcorn flavors, from classic buttery to gourmet variations like caramel and cheddar, cater to different taste preferences. Offering popcorn in tins for gifting or personalized labels adds a personalized touch. Consider themed popcorn fundraisers that tie into specific events or seasons, adding excitement and relevance to your campaign.
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15. Leverage Social Media

Role of Social Media in Fundraising: Social media is a powerful tool for spreading the word about your school’s fundraising initiatives and engaging a broader audience.

Tips for Engaging Content and Campaigns For Private Schools

• Share compelling stories and visuals.
• Utilize relevant hashtags.
• Host live fundraising events.
• Encourage user-generated content.
• Interact and respond promptly.

Social media platforms provide a dynamic space to connect with your supporters, share your school’s mission, and promote fundraising campaigns. To harness the full potential of social media, focus on creating engaging content, utilizing appropriate hashtags, and fostering active interaction with your online community.

Social media has transformed fundraising by providing a platform for your school to connect with supporters on a global scale. Crafting engaging content that tells compelling stories and includes captivating visuals resonates with your audience. Utilizing relevant hashtags increases the discoverability of your posts. Hosting live fundraising events on platforms like Facebook or Instagram adds a real-time and interactive dimension to your campaigns. Encouraging user-generated content, such as testimonials and fundraising challenges, generates excitement and participation. Promptly interacting with comments and messages demonstrates your commitment to engaging with your online community.
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16. Host Themed Fundraising Events

Concept of Themed Fundraisers: Themed fundraisers add an element of excitement and cohesion to your fundraising efforts, making them more memorable.

Creative Theme Ideas and Event Planning Tips For Private Schools

• Choose themes related to your school’s mission.
• Plan décor, activities, and entertainment accordingly.
• Encourage attendees to dress in theme.
• Promote through thematic invitations.
• Highlight the cause behind the theme.

Themed fundraising events offer a unique and memorable experience for your supporters. By selecting themes that align with your school’s mission and planning events that immerse participants in the theme, you can create an atmosphere of excitement and unity.

Themed fundraisers infuse a sense of novelty and excitement into your fundraising efforts, elevating the overall experience for supporters. To execute successful themed events, select themes that resonate with your school’s mission and values, creating a strong connection between the cause and the event. Plan decorations, activities, and entertainment that align with the chosen theme to immerse attendees in a cohesive and enjoyable experience. Encourage participants to embrace the theme by dressing accordingly, enhancing the atmosphere. Promote the event through thematic invitations that pique curiosity and anticipation. Finally, ensure that the cause behind the theme is prominently highlighted, reinforcing the purpose of your fundraiser.
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17. Encourage Direct Donations

Importance of Direct Donations: Direct donations offer a straightforward way for supporters to contribute to your school’s financial well-being.

Strategies for Maximizing Donations For Private Schools

• Make it easy to donate online.
• Highlight the impact of donations.
• Offer options for one-time and recurring donations.
• Express gratitude through personalized acknowledgments.
• Share stories of beneficiaries.

Direct donations provide a direct and impactful way for individuals to support your school’s mission. By facilitating easy online donation processes, conveying the impact of donations, and expressing gratitude to donors, you can encourage ongoing financial support.

Direct donations serve as a cornerstone of fundraising, offering a straightforward and flexible means for individuals to contribute to your school’s financial stability. Simplifying the process of donating online ensures accessibility for supporters. Highlighting the tangible impact of donations demonstrates the significance of their contributions. Offering options for both one-time and recurring donations accommodates different preferences and commitment levels. Expressing gratitude through personalized acknowledgments and sharing stories of beneficiaries reinforces the value and impact of their support.
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18. Partner with Corporate Sponsors

Benefits of Corporate Sponsorships: Corporate sponsors can provide financial support, resources, and exposure for your school’s fundraising initiatives.

Tips for Securing Sponsors For Private Schools

• Identify companies aligned with your values.
• Craft sponsorship packages.
• Showcase the benefits of sponsorship.
• Personalize pitches and proposals.
• Foster long-term partnerships.

Corporate sponsorships offer a mutually beneficial relationship where companies support your school’s initiatives while gaining exposure and demonstrating corporate social responsibility. To secure valuable sponsors, tailor your pitches to highlight the alignment of their values with your school’s mission.

Corporate sponsorships are a valuable source of support for your school’s fundraising endeavors, offering financial resources, expertise, and increased visibility. Identifying companies whose values align with your school’s mission is essential to building meaningful partnerships. Craft sponsorship packages that showcase the benefits of sponsoring your school, such as brand exposure and community engagement. Personalizing pitches and proposals demonstrates your dedication to forging a mutually beneficial partnership. Establishing long-term relationships with sponsors ensures continued support and collaboration.
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19. Organize Silent Auctions

Boosting Funds with Silent Auctions: Silent auctions offer a thrilling way to raise funds while allowing participants to bid on desirable items.

Steps for a Successful Silent Auction For Private Schools

• Gather a diverse range of items.
• Create appealing item displays.
• Implement a user-friendly bidding system.
• Promote competitive bidding.
• Host a lively auction event.

Silent auctions infuse excitement into fundraising events, providing participants with an opportunity to bid on coveted items. By curating a diverse array of items, optimizing the bidding process, and creating an engaging auction atmosphere, you can maximize the funds raised through silent auctions.

Silent auctions elevate fundraising events by introducing an element of competition and excitement. The key to success lies in assembling a wide range of appealing items that cater to various interests and budgets. Creating visually appealing displays for these items entices participants to bid. Implementing a user-friendly bidding system ensures that the auction runs smoothly and efficiently. Encouraging competitive bidding fosters enthusiasm and higher bids, ultimately increasing the funds raised. Hosting a lively auction event adds to the overall experience, creating a memorable evening for your supporters.
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20. Cookie Dough Fundraisers

The popularity of Cookie Dough Fundraisers: Cookie dough fundraisers are a delicious option, allowing supporters to indulge in sweet treats while contributing to your school.

Tips for Selling and Promoting Cookie Dough For Private Schools

• Offer a variety of cookie flavors.
• Highlight convenience and quality.
• Create appealing packaging.
• Set clear delivery dates.
• Share cookie dough recipes.

Cookie dough fundraisers satisfy sweet cravings while supporting your school’s financial needs. To excel in this fundraiser, provide a range of irresistible cookie flavors, emphasize convenience and quality, and promote it effectively within your school community.

Cookie dough fundraisers are a delightful and indulgent option for supporters to contribute to your school’s financial goals. To make the most of this fundraiser, offer a variety of cookie flavors that cater to different tastes, from classic chocolate chip to unique and gourmet options. Emphasize the convenience and quality of the cookie dough, assuring supporters of a delicious treat. Creating appealing packaging adds to the overall appeal and entices more sales. Setting clear delivery dates ensures a seamless and organized distribution process. Sharing cookie dough recipes and serving suggestions can inspire creativity and excitement among your supporters.
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Let’s Wrap Up Private Schools Fundraising Ideas

Fundraising for private schools is not just a means to an end; it’s a journey that involves the entire community. Diversifying your fundraising efforts by implementing these creative ideas can help your school achieve its financial goals while fostering strong bonds with supporters. Remember, the success of your fundraising endeavors lies in creativity, engagement, and a shared commitment to education. Embrace these fundraising methods and watch your school thrive, supported by a united community dedicated to educational excellence.

The post Private Schools: 20 Creative Ways to Fundraise first appeared on Midland Fundraising.