Student Handbook

Fundraising

For many students this is the most successful way to raise funds.

  1. Make a list of all the people you can approach (family, friends, Presidential Classroom Alumni, local businesses, etc.).
  2. Create a letter to send to them using the sample letter provided by Presidential Classroom. The letter introduces you, Presidential Classroom and your needs. It is also a means for contributors to help a young leader in a worthy pursuit.
  3. Call or visit businesses in your community to follow-up your letter and discuss potential sponsorship. (Remember: It's much more difficult to say no to you face-to- face.)
  4. Send a thank you note (whether they sponsor you or not), thanking them for their time and consideration.
  5. Send another thank you note (if they did sponsor you) after you attend a Presidential Classroom program. This may also encourage them to support other students seeking sponsorship in the future.

Some of the organizations that have sponsored PC Scholars in the past include:

  • Rotary Clubs
  • Lions Clubs
  • Kiwanis Clubs
  • Knights of Columbus
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars
  • American Legion Posts
  • Chambers of Commerce
  • League of Women Voters
  • Professional organizations
  • Local political organizations
  • Church groups
  • PTAs (Parent-Teacher Associations)
  • Local businesses
  • Schools & School boards
  • Elected officials
  • Law firms

If you wish to seek sponsorship, keep in mind these details:
  • Be sure to tell people that their donations are tax-deductible and that checks from sponsors should be made payable to Presidential Classroom.
  • Let your school principal know what you are doing. If the principal is willing to write a letter of endorsement, include copies of it with your letters. Such letters give strength and substance to your request.
  • Know what it is you are requesting. Read the brochure thoroughly to learn about the program.
  • If your contributors have questions, contact us.
  • When writing to potential contributors, double check the spelling of their names and job titles.
  • Always send a personal thank-you note, even if you do not receive a contribution.
  • Do not be discouraged if you don’t receive a contribution from everyone you ask. People who do not contribute money may provide names of others who can help.

Past Presidential Classroom Scholars have suggested a three-part formula for corresponding with sponsors:
  1. An introductory letter. The letter introduces you, Presidential Classroom and your needs. It is also a means for contributors to help a young leader in a worthy pursuit.  (Sample letter here.)
  2. A follow-up phone call to set an appointment
  3. A thank-you note, no matter what

For more ideas, see Fundraising Ideas.

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