[Trying to Help]

We're a small team too. We were beyond thrilled to find that we made it to the Championships on Saturday at the New England District Championships. We had a gofundme page already started because we'd had to raise money to get there!

We met on Sunday and decided that we would meet tonight and make the final call. Today was fundraising central. It does help that this week is spring vacation so students have time.

We're a team in a pretty rural area so many of the things that other teams might suggest won't work for us. Maybe they'll give you an idea or two.

What we've lined up or done so far:

- Asked neighbors, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. for donations.
- Asked large technology companies in the area for donations where large = about 100-200 employees.
- Agreed to paint someone's fence in May. It must be a pretty big fence because we're getting a very nice donation.
- Called and emailed the local newspaper. I think this might be generating some donations on our gofundme page.
- Planned a demo and bake sale at the local Tractor Supply Store.
- Planned to help out at the recycling center on Saturday and ask for donations.
- Already had an open house to raise awareness and generate donations in preparation for the district championships.
- Students went around to businesses in a larger town (6200 people) and asked for donations.

You could also consider asking your regional director if they know of any sources of money. I did and learned some about how the NEFIRST runs financially.

Best of luck! I completely feel your need!

Brighid