Words matter on 4-H fundraiser flyer
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EmailClarifying where and how money will go is important when marketing a 4-H fundraiser.
Michigan 4-H funds are publicly accountable and, with that, comes the importance of being transparent in how we raise funds and where the funds are going. Are you planning a 4-H group fundraiser? No matter the group, clarity matters when designing your marketing flyer. The 4-H Fundraiser Checklist is a helpful resource to making sure all the needed components are on your promotional flyer.
Flyers should explain how and where money will be going once raised. This should be done for all fundraisers whether the money is to 4-H or another organization as a donation. 4-H groups can raise funds for other organizations but should not make it a regular practice. If doing so, all publicity and signage at the event must clearly state that the money raised will be donated to whatever organization it is. The public then understands that their contribution does not support the 4-H group conducting the fundraiser.
The other key component for transparency on the flyer is with the choice of words regarding funds. 4-H groups should clarify if all proceeds or all profits are going towards the purpose outlined. “All proceeds” means all the money raised will go towards the purpose stated, whereas “all profits” allows the group to cover any expenses of the fundraiser from the money raised. For example, a group may state, “All profits will go towards 4-H members’ Exploration Days participation costs” on their car wash flyer. That phrasing allows the group to cover the costs of soap, buckets and towels with the remaining funds going towards youth registration costs for Exploration Days.
More information on these topics and other resources for 4-H financials can be found in the Financial Manual for 4-H Volunteers: Leading the Way to Financial Accountability and the Financial Manual for 4-H Treasurers: Managing Money Wisely. It is also wise to share promotional flyers with county 4-H staff to ensure a successful and approved 4-H flyer.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives. For more information or resources on career exploration, workforce preparation, financial education, or entrepreneurship, contact 4-HCareerPrep@msu.edu.
