[tobeafamily]

Here's what we did:

1. We did have yard sales, telling everyone who came that we were raising funds for an adoption. We did get many 'keep the change' and a few outright donations.

2. We sold stuff on eBay and put in our listing that we were raising funds for an adoption.

3. We asked friends & family to give us gifts to our 'baby fund' in lieu of presents at Christmas and birthdays.

4. We did cut some things out of our budget - SCUBA trips, eating at less expensive restaurants, no lunches out. Not everything, just some things.

5. We have had friends (we didn't do this) who did well having home shows for things like Homemade Gourmet, Pampered Chef, Mary Kay, Creative Memories, etc. - the distributor agreed to give them their 'hostess gift' as a cash donation rather than in product or % off deals.

The key to good fundraising through sales is a) deliver a good product and b) deliver a 'feel good' response. People resent buying 'junk' or overpriced product just to raise money - hence the reason why so many dread, avoid or refuse school fundraisers.

Now bake sales - mmmmm - people get a yummy baked good, reasonably priced, and a feeling that they're helping. Yard sales - they're looking for a bargain mostly, however if they can say 'keep the change' and feel good, they will.

BTW I also had a friend raise funds by selling instant bingo cards at a bingo hall. Not sure what the rules are in your state. I think what she did was have her agency agree to be the nonprofit named for proceeds, then she & her family staffed it and sold them. She made a good bit of money that way. I've also heard of people selling those magnetic car 'support our troops' type ribbons as fundraisers - again, feel good, decent value.

HTH

Regina