More than the Money
All sorts of clubs do all sorts of activities, and fundraising allows them to do those things.
You're in a club, and you're having fun. You are ready to host events, pursue your hobbies, and meet new people. Then you discover that being in a club often involves fundraising and advertising. These things might feel purely logistical, but there is a cultural and community aspect to them.
“It's all about dedicating myself to helping someone in need. For some, it's just about raising money, reaching a goal, and checking a box. For me, it's about raising awareness for a group of beneficiaries while accomplishing a list of goals that potentially include raising money or collecting goods. Fundraising is a lot deeper than most people think,” claimed Mr. Cloonan, a staff member at JA.
Fundraising can bring people together for the same interest in the same goal. People are willing to donate to clubs generously because they feel a connection to the club. For example, parents choose to donate to our track and field team because they appreciate the sense of community in track and field.
“Track and field's main fundraising mechanism is a crowdsourcing email campaign that our athletes engage in,” explained Mr. Thimsen, the head coach for the track and field team. “Essentially, they sign up and give about 15 of their best emails, and we hope to solicit donations from those individuals. It is totally voluntary…”
All sorts of clubs do all sorts of activities, and fundraising allows them to do those things. Fundraising isn't just collecting money, however. It’s about a community coming together to support a common interest.
“I think when you do it the right way, it can bring the school together—like, ‘Oh, here’s this event we can do,’” shared senior Leyna Gibson.
Community is very important, and being generous is a fantastic way to feel connected to the people around you.
“On both ends of the fundraising, it benefits people because the people providing the funds feel fulfilled, and the people receiving the funds benefit because they are the ones who get to use the funds,” explained senior Liam Wall. “It is definitely a net positive for the community.”
