There is something to be said about a government-funded classroom vs. a teacher funded classroom. Spending money out of pocket on needed supplies is not ideal nor always feasible (let’s face it, teachers make next to nothing). That is where I have turned to Donors Choose. Over the past seven years, I have outfitted my classroom with $4,200 worth of furniture, supplies, and learning resources to make my student’s learning experience more beneficial. The following are the five tips that helped me get my projects funded.
  1. Keep your project under $500: Many times, projects that are over $500 take a long time to get funded or never do. The more money your project costs the more unlikely it is to not get funded. If you need it to go over $500, break your materials up into multiple smaller projects.
  2. Be aware of funding opportunities and match offers: Donors Choose will give you a code for the first day of your project to share with donors to double their donation. There are also companies and organizations that will match donations based on the requested materials. Donors Choose will also do occasional promo codes to help double your offers so always keep an on your emails.
  3. Network: SHARE YOUR PROJECT! The more people that know about it the more people that can donate. Add your project link in the signature of your email. Share it with your school’s PTA, your child’s swim team, community members, family, friends, and social media. You would be surprised how many people want to help!
  4. Project description: Write your project essay with your donors in mind and the benefit your project will have on your students. Donors are more inclined to donate when they know the what and why. They want to know where their money is going. Include a thoughtful description of how your students will be impacted by your donor’s donation. Go one step further and follow the Donors Choose Asset Framing protocol linked here.
  5. Ask For Help!: As a Donors Choose Advocate Team Member, I am happy to answer any questions, provide feedback, or walk you through the project development process! Comment below, email me or DM me on Instagram.

Donors Choose is an amazing tool to get the resources you need in your classroom for your student’s success. Their platform allows you to reach donors not only in your community but across the country. What are you waiting for? Start your project today!