Nurturing a culture of giving

In the face of budget constraints and diverse stakeholder interests, navigating the challenges of school fundraising underscores the crucial need to cultivate a culture of giving. In this article, we delve into how to foster a supportive community and secure essential resources for the school’s sustained development

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on FundEd

Partner with parents’ associations

Setting up a Development Office goes beyond budget constraints – it’s about building a strong alliance with the Parents’ Association (PA). Designate a school governor as a link, ensuring a seamless connection throughout the school community. In tight financial times, team up with the PA to maximise volunteer support.

Regular meetings with the PA are crucial, especially when crafting an appeal. Coordinated fundraising strategies provide clarity to parents on the current needs. This unity extends to alumni communication, aligning messages for both parent and alumni audiences. Collaboration between the Development Office and the PA creates a potent fundraising force.

Express gratitude

The school’s annual fund invites regular contributions from parents and alumni. Hosting occasional ‘thank you’ events appreciates parents’ efforts. A biennial cream tea with the headteacher is a hit, fostering a sense of exclusivity among fund supporters. It’s an intimate setting where parents aspire to be part of something special.

After completing an appeal, capture the impact in a video featuring staff and students. This visual testament stands out, leaving a lasting impression on donors. It goes beyond a typical email, showcasing your school’s ability to deliver results.

Broaden your network

Explore archives for engaging content, utilise platforms like LinkedIn to bring alumni back to share career journeys and inspire current students. Tools like ToucanTech streamline communication, event coordination, and fundraising.

Cultivate stakeholder relationships

Engage stakeholders in ‘reviewing’ future projects, gaining insights and kindling interest. This approach resonates with both parents and alumni, fostering meaningful conversations.

Tap into support networks

The Institute of Development Professionals in Education (IDPE) offers a platform for sharing best practices. Adapt these practices from the independent sector to enrich state schools. In the realm of development, where competition is rare, sharing best practices becomes a valuable resource.

Charity exempt status

State schools, with charity exempt status, can seek support from grant-giving charities for specific projects. Build relationships by inviting trusts and charities to events showcasing the school’s vibrancy. Align the charitable trust’s interests with the school’s needs, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.

In the world of school business leadership, fostering a giving culture isn’t just about funds; it’s a collaborative effort. By embracing these principles, SBLs not only advance their institutions but also sow the seeds of lasting impact in their communities.