This is a reliable old standby because it works, and it's fun! You could do a classic 50/50 raffle where the winner gets half of the money raised, or a "chance ticket" prize raffle, where students and parents collect donated prizes from area business and then sell "chance tickets" that give people a shot at the prizes. Raffles work best in conjunction with another event like a school fair or sports game. With prizes donated by area businesses, you'll make a 100% profit!

One parent says: "The kids liked helping sell the tickets, and they also drew the winning tickets for the prizes. It made them feel more involved with the fundraising."

Many people buy candles for their home anyway, so candle fundraisers are popular. Team up with a candle company like Yankee Candle Fundraising, Home & Garden Party Candles, Gold Canyon, or Home Interiors Candles. This type of fundraiser tends to work best when managed classroom by classroom, since it usually involves collecting money from buyers before the order is placed.

One parent says: "Incredibly simple! All we had to do was take the orders, turn them in with the payments, and the candle company rep took care of the rest."

This is a great event to hold before Easter or Mother's Day! Contact a local nursery that will sell you potted and hanging plants at a discount. Send order forms home with the students, tally the orders, arrange the transport of the plants to your school, and have people pick up their orders there.

One parent says: "This is a great possibility, if you can find a cooperating nursery and charge a decent amount for the flowers. Plus, many people find it easier to pick up the plant on their way home, rather than actually going to a nursery."

Who doesn't love a good deal? These books provide lots of coupons and discounts on restaurants, stores, and entertainment. You can order local books, or books for other parts of the country where friends and family live. The books aren't cheap (usually around $25), but you have the potential to earn thousands.

One parent says: "Parents have the potential to email their school's account number nationwide, and friends and family from far away can order a book locally to their area and the school still gets the credit."