With so many fundraising options these days, it is the unique and creative ones that get the best response. Brick fundraisers are both unique and creative, and pay lasting recognition to donors.
Fundraising committees naturally first look for the best product they think supporters will buy or event they think their supporters would like to attend. How about selling an idea or a feeling instead of a product or an event? By raising funds with engraved bricks (or ceramic tiles) that will be used to decorate a wall, or be incorporated into a new building or public area, your supporters will always be remembered for donating to your group and can feel proud to be part of a wonderful cause at the same time.
What is a brick fundraiser?
In a brick fundraiser, an organization doesn’t sell the actual bricks, but the right to have a brick engraved with words of the supporter’s choice. The engraving could show the name of the supporter, a short phrase or quote or a memorial note.
The bricks “sold” will then be used in a building or decorating project. The project may be a walkway, a garden wall, patio, or even part of a building. Engraved bricks become lifelong tributes to each and every supporter who donated to your cause.
Preparing for a brick fundraiser
A brick fundraiser is pretty easy to organize:
– Decide whether you will add the bricks (or tile) to an existing structure or build them into a new project.
– Select a company – based on pricing, design options and availability – to supply and engrave the bricks.
– Come up with a design that will incorporate the bricks with the help of your supplying company. It may be to your advantage to design something that doesn’t require a specific amount of customized bricks, so it doesn’t matter how many bricks you’ll actually sell. On the other hand, having a lofty goal will probably help you sell more bricks!
– After these two steps you’re ready to create a flyer to be handed out to students and/or potential supporters. Add information about how many characters and lines the engraving can have, and any other restrictions and directions you have received from your supplier. Don’t forget to post information on your website and social media accounts as well.
Potential for profits
Brick fundraisers carry a high potential for profit. Bricks are inexpensive, and even with engraving can be substantially marked up and still be affordable for your supporters. With good outreach and support, brick fundraisers can net large profits.
Brick fundraisers offer a refreshing alternative to product-based fundraising and with good planning and marketing, a brick fundraiser can be a lasting fundraising success!
(Image: istockphoto/simotion)