[kjolana1124]

Start talking to local businesses. Explain who you are and why you're important. Brochures are key. Explain that you're just like a business in that while what you do is a lot, you can't do it on your own. As of course explain donations would equal a sponsorship which means they'll get their information on your t-shirt or something. Also, if they don't want to or can't do flat donations, ask about hosting an event there. With these I'd say start in smaller local places that a lot of people know. Also at these you can have raffles or something. BUT. Be sure to check your school policies about that because at our school we can't have raffles so we have little things to go around that. If that's the case I can explain that more in detail.

Also, Try to arrange a small fundraiser every month. Like, we had a bake sale in November, candy-grams in December, etc. Keep them simple, and for now keep them within the school. Advertising things like this around town are hard. Just think of something and act upon it. But don't overdo it. It gets too complicated that way. You don't need a four part talent show. Set a date, set up posters around teh school, make an annoucement if your school allows it, and you're good to go. A big piece of advice on this I MUST emphazise is make sure people on your team sign up for helping at these events. As in, have an actual sign up sheet where they actually write their name. There's a bigger sense for them to actually go if it's on paper.

And, looking in the future, if you can find a restaurant that would like to host you, keep their contact information. Many places, if they like you, would be more than willing to host you more than once a year.

Best wishes!