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Student Leadership & Involvement

Summer Fundraiser Ideas

Fundraising Ideas for Summer, hands throwing hearts into a jar.

Hello Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs),

Are you looking to fundraise over the Summer for your club? Here are some ideas for U!

Online/Social Media Options

These work even if members and students are off campus.

  • Crowdfunding Campaigns
    Use platforms like Givebutter, GoFundMe, or university‑approved tools. Pair with clear goals (conference travel, equipment, service project).
  • Social Media Challenges
    Example: “$5 to nominate 3 friends” challenge tied to the club mission or a fun theme.
  • Merch Pre‑Orders
    Sell T‑shirts, hoodies, stickers, or tote bags via pre‑order to avoid upfront costs.
  • Digital Workshops / Panels
    Host career, creative, or skills‑based workshops (resume reviews, coding basics, art tutorials).
  • Online Opportunity Drawings
    Partner with local businesses or alumni to donate gift cards or items.

Partnerships with Local Businesses

Great opportunity during summer when businesses want foot traffic.

  • Restaurant Fundraiser Nights
    A percentage of sales goes to the RSO (Chipotle, pizza shops, boba, ice cream).
  • Pop‑Up Tabling
    Table at farmers markets, festivals, or community events (with city approval).
  • “Round‑Up” Campaigns
    Customers round up their purchase to support the club.
  • Service for Sponsorships
    Clubs offer volunteer hours, advertising, or event support in exchange for donations.

Event‑Based Fundraising

Smaller, targeted events work best.

  • Game Nights or Trivia Nights
    Low cost, can be hosted in the evenings or virtually.
  • Movie Night or Watch Party
    Outdoor or indoor—charge a small entry fee or sell snacks.
  • Talent Show / Open Mic
    Especially good for arts, cultural, LGBTQ+, or identity‑based RSOs.
  • 5K Walk/Run or Fun Run
    Family‑friendly and appealing to alumni and community members.

Mission‑Based Fundraising

Aligning with the club’s purpose boosts buy‑in.

  • Academic / Professional RSOs
    • Resume reviews, mock interviews
    • Tutoring or test prep
    • Portfolio critiques
  • Cultural RSOs
    • Cultural food sales or cooking demos (Please make sure to have proper food permits)
    • Language workshops
    • Cultural craft nights
  • Service‑Based RSOs
    • Donation drives with optional monetary contributions
    • “Sponsor a Service Project” campaigns

Product & Service Sales

Classic options that still work well in summer.

  • Snack or Drink Sales
    • Lemonade stands (Please make sure to have proper food permits)
    • Popsicles/ice cream sandwiches
    • Coffee or energy drinks at events
  • Care Packages
    • Back‑to‑school kits, exam survival packs, or wellness kits (sold in advance).
  • Car Washes
    • Best in summer; can partner with apartment complexes or churches.
  • Custom Goods
    • Stickers, buttons, zines, keychains, crocheted or handmade items.

Alumni & Family‑Focused Fundraising

Summer is a good time to engage non‑students.

  • Alumni Giving Campaign Highlight student impact and upcoming goals.
  • Family‑Friendly Events Picnics, scavenger hunts, or workshops open to the community.
  • Newsletter Appeals Share end‑of‑year wins and request support for the upcoming academic year.

Best Practices for Summer Fundraising

  • Keep leadership lightweight and flexible
  • Use online sign‑ups and pre‑sales
  • Confirm campus and off-campus area policies (tabling, food sales, opportunity drawings)
  • Tie fundraising to a clear outcome (Example: “Goal- Send 10 students to a conference”)
  • Promote heavily on Instagram, Discord, Slack, and GroupMe