Part of the Fundraiser Nights Guide
9 Tips for Maximizing Fundraiser Night Attendance
The difference between a $150 fundraiser night and a $800 one is almost always attendance. Here are 9 proven strategies to get more families through the door.
1. Choose the Right Day
Tuesday through Thursday evenings work best. Monday is too early in the week, and families have weekend plans. Avoid nights that conflict with school events, sports games, or holidays.
2. Start Promoting 2 Weeks Early
Two weeks gives families enough notice to plan around the event without being so far out that they forget. Use a mix of channels: backpack flyers, email blasts, school app notifications, and social media posts.
3. Send 3 Reminders
The #1 reason families miss fundraiser nights is simply forgetting. Send reminders at 7 days, 1 day, and the morning of the event. NAVERS.org sends these automatically to anyone who signs up on the event page.
4. Make It Social
Encourage families to go with friends. "Table groups" or informal meetups make the event feel like a party rather than an obligation. Parents are more likely to attend when their friends are going too.
5. Set a Class Competition
Pit classrooms against each other: "Which class can bring the most families?" The winning class gets a pizza party or extra recess. Kids are the best marketers — they'll beg their parents to go.
6. Include Extended Family
Explicitly invite grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends. Many organizers focus only on immediate families, but extended family can double your headcount. "Bring Grandma!" is a surprisingly effective message.
7. Use Social Media Effectively
Create a shareable post with the business name, date, time, and donation percentage. Ask the class parents to share it. Tag the restaurant. Post a countdown story the day before. Live-post photos during the event.
8. Share Previous Results
"Our last fundraiser night at Joe's Pizza raised $425!" When families see concrete numbers, they understand their dinner has real impact. Always share results after each event to build momentum.
9. Make It Easy (Remove Friction)
The easier you make it, the more families will participate. Don't require RSVPs, don't require them to bring a physical flyer, and choose a restaurant that's convenient for most families. If the restaurant offers takeout or online ordering that counts, promote that option for busy families.