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How to run a

Elementary School Fun Run

A Fun Run is a donation-based fundraiser that accepts and tracks online payments leading up to the event. Students typically participate in the fun run or race and contributions are made on their behalf.

Two children drawing a start and finish line in chalk

SuccessFund's campaign template makes it easy to:

  • Show progress toward your goal, and track results by classroom and student so you don't have to keep spreadsheets.
  • Accept modern forms of payment that parents prefer (like Apple Pay and Venmo!) so you're not taking payments into personal accounts.
  • Spread the word online and in person with automated flyers so it's easy to make sure everyone can contribute.

How-to video: Create and customize this campaign

Some of the best ideas we've seen

  • Set Clear Goals: Determine how much money you aim to raise and what the funds will be used for (e.g., new playground equipment, field trips, classroom supplies).
  • Create a Committee: Form a dedicated team of volunteers including teachers, parents, and community members to help organize and manage the event.
  • Choose a Date and Location: Select a date and location that is convenient for participants and has enough space for the run/walk course.
  • Promote Early and Often: Use various channels such as school newsletters, social media, flyers, and posters to promote the event well in advance.
  • Customize your SuccessFund Campaign: Use the leaderboard to track donation results by class automatically.
  • Volunteer Coordination: Recruit volunteers to help with various tasks such as registration, course marshaling, water stations, and cleanup.
  • Theme and Decorations: Choose a fun theme for the event and decorate the venue accordingly to make it more engaging for participants.
  • Interactive Course: Incorporate interactive elements along the course such as obstacle courses, color stations, or themed zones to make the run more entertaining.
  • Photography and Social Media: Capture memorable moments during the event and encourage participants to share their photos on social media using a designated hashtag.
  • Thank You Notes: Send personalized thank-you notes to participants, volunteers, sponsors, and donors to show appreciation for their support.

Every SuccessFund campaign is built with

  • Sell products and track inventory
  • Modern online payments (including Venmo)
  • In-person payments (including Venmo)
  • Credit the student you're supporting at checkout
  • Custom checkout questions, forms, and waivers
  • Log and track cash and check transactions
  • Automatic receipts
  • Scanning receipts for fulfillment and admissions
  • Customizable colors, calls-to-action, and imagery
  • and more...

Create a draft to get started

SuccessFund makes it simple.