Fundraising is serious business, but it doesn’t have to be a time-consuming and labor-intensive endeavor like, oh… like building a space shuttle. Projects like car washes in the parking lot of a local grocery store or chili/pancake potlucks require many hours of work to be successful. Selling candy or popcorn from door to door requires hours and hours of dedication from the participants. Hats off to all of them for supporting a good cause, but there’s a better way to do it.
What is this fundraising idea?
The Personalized Family Cookbook. The fundraising cookbook has been a staple of the fundraising community for decades. Literally. A cookbook publisher has been in business since 1947. That’s a testament not only to the popularity of cookbooks, but also to the company because you don’t stay in business that long unless you’re doing something right.
Why does it work?
I don’t know for sure, but I feel like it has something to do with the fact that everyone eats. All living beings on this planet have that in common with each other. Other fundraising products immediately reduce your customer base. Car wash? Not everyone has a car. Selling candy and popcorn? Not everyone enjoys these delicacies. Fancy candles? Try selling one to the guy at the Harley-Davidson. Seasonal decorations? Same problem as candles.
Cookbooks, on the other hand, are universally popular. Try to think of someone who doesn’t cook at least once in a while. Even if they make a simple casserole or no-bake dessert, they still need recipes. Then there are the people who really enjoy the art of cooking. They’ll grab a new cookbook faster than a clown making a dachshund out of balloons. My wife has at least a couple dozen cookbooks, most of which have come from fundraisers like the one you want to host.
people are generous
Yes, they are generous and will willingly donate to a good cause. Most people will donate money to a charity or fundraiser and expect nothing in return, other than the good feeling they get from doing something philanthropic. But if you offer them a valuable cookbook, they’ll be more excited to part with even more of their money.
What makes it valuable?
A family cookbook consists of the best recipes from the best cooks in your “family.” That family could be your school’s PTA, your church or civic organization, or a group of people interested in helping with a particular charity. But recipes can come from anyone. Imagine getting all the secret recipes from all the “little old ladies” in your neighborhood or town. They have been cooking for years, and their vast experience will be available to all who purchase the recipe book. You just can’t find a commercial cookbook with such wonderful dishes and desserts that have been tested in the real world. That’s where the real value comes from.
How to start
Find a reputable cookbook publisher online and see if it’s been around for a while. If so, make sure they have the right tools and options available so you can customize your cookbook just the way you want. Finally, check that they have a guarantee. A guarantee is almost unheard of with any other fundraising product, but there are a few companies that do. Once you’ve selected a company that fits that criteria, you’re ready to start gathering the recipes and let the fun begin.
