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How to promote a sponsored event to families and the community

It’s important to have the buy-in of parents and the local community. Be sure to clearly communicate the fundraiser to parents well in. Some key points to consider including are: the need, the impact the money raised will have, what will be expected of their children (and them), the benefits that come from their children in taking part in the fundraiser (more on this in the ‘Why Fundraise Through Sponsored Events’ section).

 

Tailor your promotional efforts across different channels. Here’s how to cover all bases:

 

  1. Social Media

Social media is a free and powerful tool to boost awareness. Use your PTA’s Facebook, Instagram, or X (Twitter) accounts to post about the event regularly in the weeks leading up to it. Include eye-catching visuals and a clear call to action.

 

Suggested copy:

🎉 Join us for [Event Name] on [Date]!
Fun for the whole family and all in support of [Cause or Goal].
📍 [Location] 🕐 [Time]
Let’s make a difference together! #SchoolFundraiser #SupportOurKids

 

Encourage parents to share the posts to reach more people. You can also create a Facebook event to manage RSVPs and send updates.

 

  1. Community Engagement

Reach out beyond the school gates. Local businesses, influencers, and media outlets can be powerful allies.

 

Suggested email to local businesses:

 

Subject: Partner with Us for [School Name]’s Fundraising Event!

Hello [Name],

We’re hosting a fundraising event at [School Name] to support [Purpose]. We’d love your support — whether that’s through sharing our event, donating a prize, or sponsoring part of the day.

It’s a great chance to show your support for local children and be part of a great community event.

Thank you for considering!

Warm regards,
[Your Name], PTA Chair

 

For media and local influencers:

  • Highlight what makes the event unique
  • Offer a photo opportunity or chance to attend
  • Keep it short, friendly, and clear

 

  1. Designing Materials

Strong visual materials make a big difference. Create eye-catching flyers, posters, and digital content using free tools like Canva. Include:

  • Event name and purpose
  • Date, time, location
  • Key attractions (e.g. raffle, food, entertainment)
  • Contact info or a QR code linking to a website or donation page

Place posters around school, local shops, and cafes. Share digital versions on school newsletters and social media.

 

 

TOP TIP: Persistency

No matter what, you will need to send multiple communications over the course of the fundraiser to drive uptake. It’s a good idea to share success stories (“Red Class raised £1,000 through their sponsored walk!’) and updates on the total raised and how far to go. It’s also a good idea to get class teachers to remind their children to create their fundraisers and to send out class specific emails. You can ask children to set up their accounts in class (but please note, because SuperKind is for children, parents will be sent an email to approve their children’s accounts before they can create their fundraiser, so you might need to allocate two slots for this, a few days apart – to create the account, and then the fundraiser).

Wiki

A Guide to Sponsored Events for PTAs. This guide provides a deep dive into sponsored events – what’s so good about them, how to do them, and how to make them as successful and meaningful as possible. Please choose a category below to learn more.