It’s a familiar cycle: Your school plans a big fundraiser, works tirelessly for weeks, hits the goal (or not), and then…
Nothing.
One-time fundraisers are a big burst of effort for a short-lived reward. And while they might help you hit an immediate target, they often leave schools struggling to meet ongoing financial needs.
In 2025, schools need to think beyond single events and build sustainable, ongoing fundraising strategies that keep money flowing consistently.
Why One-Time Fundraisers Fall Short
- Lack of Momentum:
- You spend weeks building up to one big event, but once it’s over, interest and enthusiasm drop off.
- You spend weeks building up to one big event, but once it’s over, interest and enthusiasm drop off.
- Community Fatigue:
- Parents and supporters may feel pressured to give big during a one-time push, leaving them less likely to support future events.
- Parents and supporters may feel pressured to give big during a one-time push, leaving them less likely to support future events.
- Unpredictable Revenue:
- One event a year means inconsistent cash flow, which makes planning difficult.
- One event a year means inconsistent cash flow, which makes planning difficult.
- High Volunteer Burnout:
- One-time fundraisers often require intense volunteer effort, leaving people exhausted.
- One-time fundraisers often require intense volunteer effort, leaving people exhausted.
What to Do Instead: Build a Fundraising Ecosystem
1. Plan a Series of Smaller Events:
- Instead of one big push, plan multiple smaller campaigns throughout the year.
- Example: A monthly digital giving challenge rather than a single gala.
2. Automate Recurring Campaigns:
- Set up a platform like Brightraiser that allows for ongoing campaigns.
- People are more likely to give smaller amounts consistently than make one big donation.
3. Engage the Community Year-Round:
- Use social media updates and monthly newsletters to keep the campaign alive.
- Highlight ongoing progress and success stories.
How Brightraiser Supports Sustainable Fundraising
- Ongoign campaigns: Set it up once.
- Digital Campaign Management: Run multiple campaigns without overwhelming your team.
- Progress Tracking: Keep supporters engaged by showing consistent progress.