Sharing the load: Fundraising can stressful and overwhelming

Fundraising can feel stressful and overwhelming. For many parents and volunteers involved in school or sports club fundraising, that single word alone can bring on a wave of dread.

I've been on both sides of fundraising, coordinating large group campaigns and fundraising alongside my own child to contribute to a shared goal. From experience, fundraising does not have to feel so heavy. With a little structure, clarity, and kindness, it can become far more manageable for everyone involved.

Here are a few practical tips to help make your fundraising journey easier.

1. Set a Clear Fundraising Goal

Too often, groups fundraise with the aim of raising "as much as possible." While well intentioned, this approach can quickly become exhausting, especially when fundraising stretches over a long period.

Instead, ask your fundraising coordinator or committee to set a clear dollar goal or a defined timeframe. For example, fundraising from March through October to support a Year 7 end-of-year camp, or raising $2,000 toward new club uniforms. Having a clear target gives everyone something concrete to work toward and provides a much-needed sense of an endpoint. Learn more about setting SMART fundraising goals.

2. Set Expectations Early

Not every family can contribute the same amount of time, energy, or resources, and that is the reality of group fundraising. The key is deciding how this will be handled before the fundraiser begins.

Will families have the option to opt out of fundraising and not receive the same benefits? Will funds raised be allocated based on individual effort, such as credits toward a camp or activity? Whatever approach you choose, be clear and upfront from the start. Transparency prevents frustration and helps everyone understand how their efforts fit into the bigger picture.

3. Share the Load

Large fundraising events work best when tasks are shared according to people's strengths. Expecting every family to do everything often leads to burnout and resentment.

For events like trivia nights or bingo fundraisers, one parent might be great at selling tickets, another may be happy to help with scoring, while someone else can stay behind to help clean up. When tasks are matched to people's skills and availability, fundraising becomes far less overwhelming. Many hands truly do make light work. Learn more about recruiting a fundraising team.

4. Be Transparent With Results

Let fundraisers know how much each event raised as soon as possible. If funds are being allocated to individual balances, such as for a school camp, clearly communicate the dollar amount credited.

Seeing tangible results helps volunteers feel that their time and effort matter. It reinforces trust and motivates continued participation. Learn more about demonstrating impact beyond dollars.

5. Lead With Kindness

Fundraising is built on goodwill. Frustrated emails, gossip, or criticism about who is or is not helping will only discourage people from getting involved.

Instead, ask for help clearly, appreciate every contribution, and remember that everyone is doing the best they can. A kind, supportive approach goes a long way in keeping morale high and people willing to pitch in. Discover creative ways to thank your PTO volunteers.

Fundraising Is a Team Effort

Fundraising works best when expectations are clear, workloads are shared, and everyone feels valued. With the right approach, it does not have to feel overwhelming. When people feel supported and respected, fundraising becomes less of a burden and more of a shared effort toward a meaningful goal. For planning guidance, check out our article on planning your fundraising timeline.