There are Better Ways to Fundraise
Seriouly, it's time for a change
Raffles have long been a go-to option for youth sports leagues and other organizations trying to raise funds. They’re familiar, easy to organize, and often seen as a quick solution. But let’s be honest: the community—the very people these fundraisers rely on—are tired of them. Many participants buy raffle tickets not because they’re excited about winning, but because they feel obligated to be nice and supportive. It’s time to rethink the approach and explore options that create a more rewarding experience for everyone involved.
…think a raffle is great? ask your community what they would choose…
The problem with Raffles
While raffles might seem like a no-brainer for leagues, their drawbacks often outweigh the perceived benefits. Here’s why:
1. Social Pressure and Obligation
Most people don’t purchase raffle tickets because they’re thrilled by the prizes or confident they’ll win. Instead, they buy out of social obligation. Whether it’s a friend’s child or a coworker’s nephew selling tickets, people often feel compelled to “do their part.” This doesn’t create genuine engagement or excitement; it simply leverages guilt as a sales tactic. Over time, this can leave the community feeling less supportive and more resentful of constant asks
2. Lack of Interest in Prizes
Let’s face it—most raffle prizes aren’t exactly thrilling. A donated gift basket, a framed jersey, or a random kitchen gadget might hold some appeal, but they rarely inspire enthusiasm. For most buyers, the prize is secondary, and in many cases, it’s something they don’t need or want. This lack of connection to the reward further diminishes the experience.
3. Convenience over Enthusiasm
For busy parents and volunteers, raffles are often a path of least resistance. They’re simple to set up and manage: print tickets, collect cash, and draw a winner. But this convenience comes at a cost. It fosters a transactional mindset among participants, where the purchase feels like a chore rather than an act of genuine support. Volunteers, too, may feel uninspired by the process, simply going through the motions to meet a fundraising goal.
4. Disappointment for Most Participants
With a raffle, there’s always a winner—but there are far more losers. For every person who wins the prize, dozens (or even hundreds) walk away empty-handed. This creates an inevitable letdown for the majority of participants, making the fundraiser feel less like a community celebration and more like a gamble that didn’t pay off. Over time, this pattern can erode goodwill and make it harder to engage supporters in the future.
The Case for a Better Way
Raffles are easy to understand and execute, which is why many leagues default to them. But easy doesn’t mean effective. If your goal is to build strong community support and maximize profit for your organization, it’s worth considering alternatives that offer greater value and engagement.
With proper planning, a fundraiser can:
- Raise significantly more money: Some fundraisers offer higher profit margins and more opportunities for participation, leading to better outcomes for your league.
- Create a positive buying experience: Instead of leveraging guilt or obligation, a thoughtfully planned fundraiser can offer something the community actually wants, fostering goodwill and excitement.
- Strengthen community ties: A successful fundraiser isn’t just about dollars raised; it’s about building relationships and creating a sense of shared purpose. The right approach can leave participants feeling proud of their contribution and eager to support your league again in the future.
A New Perspective on Fundraising
It’s time to break free from the cycle of uninspired, obligatory fundraising. The community deserves more than another stack of raffle tickets to buy out of politeness—they deserve a chance to engage with your league in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
Rethinking your approach doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right guidance and a little creativity, your next fundraiser could not only meet your financial goals but also leave a lasting, positive impression on everyone involved. It’s time to move beyond raffles and embrace a fundraising strategy that works for your league and your community.
Want help creating your volunteer and fundraising form?
We can do it for you and custom design your Volunteer Form for you complete with your expections and goals.
Check out our form here and use it for insight. For additional customization, we can add your logo onto the form as well .
Act NOW and get a $100 off your next fundraising invoice* when you put it in place.
*select fundraisers
5. Creating a Winning Culture
When everyone participates, a special dynamic develops—parents, kids, and volunteers become more invested in the league’s success.
This cultivates a positive and engaged atmosphere where parents take pride in contributing to something greater, while children learn the importance of teamwork, both on the field and in how the league operates.
