Start a Garage Sale Fundraiser
There's always a cause that desperately needs funds. Whether it's education, a natural disaster in a faraway country, or a community animal shelter, the days when charities could rely solely on government for much-needed contributions are long over. You can raise money for a cause close to your heart, and you probably have everything you need right in your home. A garage or yard sale makes money for your favorite charity, and helps rid your house of clutter--a win-win.
Instructions
1. Advertise your garage sale. Craigslist has homepages in dozens of different cities around the country. Post the free ad no earlier than a week in advance and place a new ad the day before your sale. Post an ad in on the events page of your local Yelp homepage; and send messages to your Facebook and Twitter friends. Post fliers on telephone poles, in churches and supermarkets around your community. Don't forget to write your address and provide directions. Don't assume everyone will be able to find your house.
2. Micro-organize everything. Put all video games and consoles together. Group VCR tapes, DVDs and CDs separately. Put blenders, coffeemakers and other kitchen items together. Put t-shirts in one box, shorts and pants in another--arrange according to size. The more organized you are, the easier it will be for shoppers to find what they're looking for and spend their money.
3. Tag every item for sale or write the price on the box. For example, write "$2 each" on a box full of t-shirts. This will cut down on questions and leave you more time to check-out customers.
4. Save plastic and paper bags starting the week before your sale. Keep those grocery and pharmacy bags to give to customers who buy more than two or three items. Have some newspaper on hand to protect fragile items.
5. Post a sign that says what charity the proceeds will benefit. Some people will pitch in a few extra dollars if they know their money is going to a good cause. Consider making a poster promoting the cause or organization. Provide a donation box so people can contribute even if they don't make a purchase.
Tags: before your, before your sale, Garage Sale, Garage Sale Fundraiser, Sale Fundraiser, Start Garage