Every fall (and sometimes spring too!), it feels like “fundraising season” sneaks up on us. Suddenly, the kids are coming home with order forms for cookie dough, coupon books, wrapping paper, raffle tickets—you name it. Add in church projects, school fundraisers, and extracurricular club needs, and it can start to feel like our wallets and calendars are being pulled in every direction. In the past month, both of my kids have come home with fundraisers for their school (chocolate bars), my daughter had one to raise money for books for her class, and my son had a huge band program fundraiser. The year is just getting started, folks!

I’ll be honest—sometimes it’s overwhelming. But over the years, I’ve learned a few ways to navigate fundraising season without losing my sanity (or blowing the budget). Here are my best tips for tackling it with confidence.

1. Decide What’s Worth Your Family’s Time and Energy

Not every fundraiser is created equal. Before jumping in, ask yourself:

• Does this fundraiser directly support my child or their activity?

• Is it something our friends and family would actually want to buy?

• Does the cost line up with the value of the product?

It’s okay to say no if it doesn’t check those boxes. Your time and money are valuable.

2. Set a Budget Early

When you know fundraising season is coming, it helps to decide in advance how much your family is willing (and able) to spend or donate. That way, you don’t feel guilty for turning things down later—you’ve already set your limits.

3. Choose Quality Over Quantity

Instead of trying to participate in every single fundraiser, pick one or two that mean the most to your child or your family. Maybe it’s the band trip, the church mission project, or the soccer team’s uniforms. Focus your energy there, and you’ll feel better about supporting causes that truly matter.

4. Get Creative (and Skip the Order Forms)

Sometimes, it’s easier to think outside the box. If your child’s club or school allows, consider suggesting or organizing a fundraiser that feels more personal—like a bake sale, a yard sale, or even a fun community event. People often love to support something that feels authentic and homemade.

5. Support in Non-Monetary Ways

Not every parent can buy ten tubs of cookie dough, and that’s okay. You can still help by:

• Sharing the fundraiser link on social media

• Volunteering your time at events

• Helping your child deliver items to neighbors

Your effort matters just as much as your dollars.

6. Teach Your Kids About Stewardship

Fundraising season is a great chance to talk to your kids about stewardship, community, and using resources wisely. Help them understand that while fundraising is important, it’s also okay to prioritize and make thoughtful choices as a family.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, fundraising is about supporting our kids and their activities—but it doesn’t have to leave us feeling stressed or broke. With a little planning, you can survive (and maybe even enjoy) fundraising season!

What’s the most unique or helpful fundraiser you’ve ever seen? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below!