Fundraising involving children

Fundraising where children are involved requires some extra preparation.  While may supporters are much more willing to buy a product from a child, you need to make sure that the kids know what to do and are always in a safe environment.

Safety

Safety should always be the number one priority.  Never allow a child to do door-to-door sales without adult supervision.  This should be stressed to the children and their parents from the start of any fundraising campaign.  Emphasise that children should not be encouraged to sell outside of their comfort zone (family, friends and neighbours).  Safe behaviour should be encouraged by example and inappropriate behaviour like shopping centre sales without prior approval, unsupervised sales etc. should be avoided.

Coaching

Remember that children are not trained as sales people or accountants.  They may feel intimidated by having to try to sell products or tickets to someone.  Try to help them as much as possible by telling them exactly what to say and letting them rehearse this.  Adults should always be at hand to help with questions about the organisation or the product, to be able to give change and to encourage the kids.

Encouragement

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