Greenraising: Sustainable Fundraising

Schools and nonprofit organizations are changing the way they fundraise by greenraising. They have started raising money with the planet in mind. So now instead of selling the usual candy, cookies, magazines, gift-wrapping materials, etc., children are offering sustainable items to individuals interested in helping them reach their fundraising goal, and whether they know it or not, they are helping to preserve the environment too. Lisa Olson is the founder of Greenraising who started the fundraiser company that provides eco-friendly products. Parents who noticed that their children were not being successful with traditional fundraising events created this company, and they made the connection between this and what our world needs today, which is greener options. Eco-friendly products that have been incorporated into the greenraising include fair-trade coffee, metal water bottles, hand-made soap, lunch bags and gift-wrapping supplies made from recyclable materials. There are products for school, home and the office. What makes these items appealing is the fact that people can actually get use out of, and it's worth giving the money to the school or nonprofit organization. Although Girl Scout cookies are scrumptious, it's not a good feeling when you have 20 boxes of them accumulating in your pantry and on your thighs. Greenraising has an online site to help guide organizations in setting up their fundraiser event, and ideas for the events are even suggested. This new take on fundraising is teaching children at a young age the importance of sustainability as well as raising their awareness of environmental issues. Organizations can setup website drives, catalog drives and look for ideas on Greenraising's website. Plus the company offers year-round assistance to those looking to hold a fundraiser. All schools and nonprofits have to do is register. By providing quality and environmentally friendly products, Greenraising is making a positive impact and statement for others. In addition, the children involved will get a sense of giving back to the world as well as feel that they do have the power to make a difference. The tools are out there, so there is no excuse why other organizations cannot follow in these sustainable footprints.