[Cynette]

Originally Posted by Don Rotolo

One thing that was successful for us was to have all the team member's parents come to a meeting, explain the basic financials of competing in FIRST, and beg ask them to inquire at their companies about sponsorshi0ps, both small ($100) and large. Prepare an info packet for them to take, explaining FIRST and the need for sponsorships.

Parents actions account for more than 60% of our funding. And, since it is several relatively small donations, the loss of one does not have as big an impact as, say, losing a $10k sponsor. (Heck, parents and grandparents account for several personal donations...)

Just one idea.

Don

PS: As for overwhelmed, ask for help, and delegate a lot.

Don

I agree with Don! Parent support and having them understand what is involved in having a team is very valuable. Use the parents to help what ever team members you have to kick off a patron / sponsor drive! I've attached the link for our fundraising page. We have posted the documents we use for our patron drive there as examples of forms you might want to use. http://www.penfieldrobotics.com/team/fundraising.php