Many schools today operate under tight budgets and cannot afford extras such as playground equipment. Preschools, in particular, often struggle to find funds for extras. They typically don’t receive government funding, so it falls on staff members and parents to pay for anything beyond the essentials. While tuition may cover some of the cost, the rest must be found elsewhere.
There are countless ideas for preschool fundraising; some work better than others. If the preschool has a parent-teacher association, the association can help parents get excited about this project. Stakeholder buy-in is essential to the success of this project. The following are four tips any preschool can use to raise money for playground equipment.
Local Business Help
Reach out to local businesses to see if they would be willing to donate part of their profits to this project. Small local companies typically give more to the community than larger businesses, so this is a good place for the preschool to start. A local business may sponsor the project and pay most of the cost. The school would then recognize this business for its donation. The company gets a boost in brand awareness and reputation while the preschool gets the playground equipment it needs.
Grants
Grants are another source of funding for special preschool projects. The school may apply for a grant through federal, state, or local government sources. When applying for a grant, the preschool must ensure it meets all criteria and follows the guidelines when completing the documents. The application must explain the why behind the project and share how it will benefit the community overall. As playground equipment gets children outside and active, the preschool may focus on the health and wellness benefits of having this equipment available. The grant writer should be detailed and transparent when completing this document to show that careful planning has been put into the project and that it will be completed as outlined. Preschools should also consider other grant sources when seeking funding for the project.
Individual Donors
Individual donors may be willing to contribute to this project. Many often turn to the parents of the children attending the preschool to secure this funding. Parents of former students may be willing to contribute, but the preschool should look outside of these sources.
Wealthy residents in the area might provide funds, and the preschool should consider small contributions as they can quickly add up. With funding from multiple sources, the preschool may have what it needs to construct the playground quickly. If every child in the preschool brought in a box of nails, this would lower the project’s price while ensuring everyone who wants to participate can. Don’t overlook options such as these when finding funding for playground equipment.
When soliciting donations, the preschool must have a way to recognize those who contribute. The school might engrave donors’ names on a plaque or highlight the donors on social media pages and in parent newsletters. Finding a way to recognize those who contribute to the project is crucial to its overall success.
Ticketed Events
Ticketed events are an excellent way to increase community involvement in the project. The cover charge for this event will help raise funds for the playground. The preschool may host a carnival, talent show, fun run, or gala. Many preschools choose to host multiple events to connect with different community audiences.
Other options that might be considered when attempting to raise funds for playground equipment include holding a sale or auction, selling items door to door, or connecting with nonprofit and community organizations. Using various methods allows more community members to participate in this project. Use the tips outlined above to increase the odds of success, and the playground equipment will soon be ready for use.
