Running a raffle without running an event

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There is nothing as fun, simple and cost effective as running a raffle and you can still run a raffle this year even if you are not running an event. Here are some tips to help you.

1. Getting your prizes together. You might be worried about asking local businesses for donations during Covid. However, businesses now need to advertise more than ever so don't be too shy to ask. A good place to start is by asking parents who run their own businesses. You could also buy online shopping vouchers, which are really easy to send out to the winners. Alternatively, you could go for a luxury item like an iPad, which is a guaranteed way of selling more tickets.
2. Buy your raffle tickets from Raffle Tickets 4U. Parentkind have secured an exclusive deal with Raffle Tickets 4U where Parentkind members get a 20% discount on tickets. To claim your 20% discount, visit Raffle Tickets 4U and place your order. Your discount will be applied when ordering by entering your Parentkind membership number into the voucher code area at the checkout. The discount will be applied before VAT and delivery charges are added.
3. Distributing Raffle Tickets. The best way to distribute the raffle tickets is books in envelopes (for example three books of five tickets) in children's school bags, which can be handed out by teachers in form time. Also, give an envelope to every staff member too. If you are concerned about handling the tickets, wear gloves and place tickets in envelopes for 24 hours before distribution. Also, you could make a designated box in the school for the children to drop their envelopes (and enclosed money) into when they return the tickets. Studies have shown that the COVID-19 virus can survive for up to 72 hours on plastic and stainless steel, less than four hours on copper and less than 24 hours on cardboard. Some PTAs have been advised by their local authority to leave the tickets in envelopes for three days before distribution. If you’re unsure, check in with your local authority for best practice.
4. Hosting the raffle. There are many ways to host the raffle but our favourites are:
   • Hold the draw via Zoom
   • Host a private draw at school

   Either way, choose one of the children to draw the winning tickets and make sure you have someone at hand who can take photos and videos so that the event can be published in the newsletter, the website social media.

   Happy Fundraising!