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October 2004 Just a quick note before I dive into this month’s article. While I will continue to send a monthly newsletter, I’m also now posting fundraising and non profit news several times a week to my blog (or journal). If you have a yahoo ID you can even add the headlines to your My Yahoo page. Check it out at: http://www.stepbystepfundraising.com/blog Now on to our fundraising ideas —-

Halloween Fundraisers
It’s not too late to plan a fun, Halloween or fall themed fundraiser! This could be a costume party, fall carnival or trick-or-treat night. It doesn’t even have to be a Halloween theme per say, it can be a fall carnival or something else. I have three different events that could be great fun for your group.

This is a variation on the trick or treat idea for children. Instead of kids going around the block, host the party in a parking lot or field. Adults volunteer to decorate their cars and pass out candy. Kids travel from one car to another, hence the term “Trunk or Treat.” This is a great event that has worked for a church in our area for several years. It creates a safe carnival environment that’s fun for kids and parents alike.
 * Trunk or Treating**

To raise funds with a Trunk or Treat night, sell food such as hot dogs, sodas and other refreshments. Set up carnival booths such as darts, ring toss, fishing, etc. and charge a small fee per play, .50-1.00 depending on the booth.

A murder mystery party is usually a small gathering held in someone’s home. These are great for an adult only party. However, kids aren’t totally left out. There are some “detective” type party games for kids too. To find out how to plan this event visit:
 * Murder Mystery Party**

[|Murder Mystey Party Fundraiser] This was a fun event that my singles group did a few years ago. It’s a fun way to have a themed costume party. Since it’s not a Halloween theme, this event could be planned for any time of the year.
 * Decades Party**

Basically, every one comes dressed as their favorite “decade.” At our party there was everything from mobsters and flappers, hippies, to girls dressed like Madonna ala “Like a Virgin.” You could even come as a future decade space cadet. (In case you’re wondering I dressed like the ‘80s with big hair, blue mascara and a “Thriller” jacket!) Entertainment depends on the size of the party. We played “Name that Tune” with songs from the 50’s til today. If you’re hosting a larger event, there could be a band playing cover songs.

To raise funds for charity with this type of event, sell tickets for entry, have food booths or a combination of both. For example, the ticket could include a meal and desserts would be extra. Additional revenue comes from silent auctions or a [|raffle]. I hope these three events have given you ideas for your fall fundraising.

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 * Fundraising CHAIR for this event is __. ||