Fundraising - Getting Started

Getting Started | Forms | Silkscreen Costs | Profit Potential

	Before beginning your fundraiser, you will want to designate a coordinator who will serve as liaison between your organization and Catoctin Kettle Korn. The coordinator will work with us to determine the organization's financial goals, selling dates, order date, and delivery date. Depending on the size of your group, it may also be wise to establish a committee or team of volunteers, such as parents or teachers, who will accept responsibility for subgroups and report to the coordinator.
	Decide how much money your organization needs to raise and how much each participant would have to sell to meet that goal. It is best to set your goal somewhat higher than the amount you actually need to make up for those who do not reach their quota. To increase motivation, it is a good idea to announce in advance that there will be a reward of some sort for those who meet or surpass the goal. We will be happy to assist you with creative ideas in this area.
	Have a fundraiser kick-off to inform your group of all the sales particulars and to raise enthusiasm in your members. It is also helpful to have a cover letter explaining how the funds will be used and what incentives will be available for the top sellers. This letter is also key to outlining sales strategies, safety tips, and selling and delivery dates. Please call if you'd like assistance in composing your letter. We recommend that a letter be attached to each participant's order form.
	Frequently reminding your members about dates and encouraging them often will most likely boost sales. Another method of increasing your profits is to advertise to your target customers through newsletters, posters and signs in public places, as well as ads on local radio and TV stations.
	Regardless of late orders, please phone in your totals on the preordained order day. If there are any outstanding orders, we will work with you when you call to arrange a second date.
	Customers will pay members of your organization the full amount for their order on the day of the sale. If they choose to pay by check, customers should make out their checks to your organization. You will then be able to directly deposit all cash and checks into your organization's account. On the delivery date, you will need to pay with a cashier's check, certified bank check, or money order made out to Catoctin Kettle Korn. We will accept the organization's check but no personal or starter checks or cash.
	Please double check your order for accuracy upon delivery. It is best to organize distribution by either alphabetizing the orders or separating them by some easily understood system, such as group leaders' or homeroom teachers' names. Be sure your members know exactly when and where to pick up their orders to avoid inconveniencing your volunteers. Even though Catoctin Kettle Korn is guaranteed to be fresh, encourage your members to distribute the bags as soon as possible to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.