When the holidays are over, help clean up!
With the end of the holidays just around the corner, people will be looking for places to dispose of their Christmas trees and wreaths. Most people are willing to donate money to someone who will take the task off their hands, especially if their donation is going to a good cause. Your Summit this summer is a great cause, so be the person they call! Find a friend or family member with a truck or trailer who’s willing to help with the pick up and get started advertising your tree and wreath disposal services.
Planning for Pick-Ups
Once you’ve decided on several days and times you and your driver are available for pick ups, advertise to your family, friends and neighbors via word of mouth, social media and door-to-door visits. Make sure you share your availability, suggested donation amount and what the money raised will go toward. This is also a great time to let people know what the Summit will be like, what you are most looking forward to learning there and that their donation will help cover your tuition or travel expenses.
We suggest a donation fee of $15 for Christmas trees and $5 for wreaths. Remember that part of what you earn will offset the cost of dumping fees depending on the facility you use. Check out the local places where you can dispose of trees and wreaths to learn what they charge. Base your donation amount off of this information to ensure you are still earning money.
If you know someone who owns a wood chipper, ask them to chip the trees and wreaths for free. Local landscaping businesses may also be interested in working with you at no charge if you explain your fundraising efforts. Then, you’ll be able to keep all of the donations!
Picking Up the Trees and Wreaths
As you make each pick up, take a good look for ornaments accidentally left behind on branches. This happens a lot, so a second pair of eyes is helpful. Have a typed thank-you note to hand out to each person who donates. This is another opportunity to remind them that their donation is supporting your Summit experience and that you appreciate their help.
As a final note, if you meet people who do not decorate with trees or wreaths, offer some other clean-up service instead. Perhaps you can run in the recycling generated from opened gifts or take an hour of your time to help pack away holiday decorations like Christmas lights. Always be sure you have parent permission or supervision if you plan to work in the home of a person who isn’t a friend or family member.
Are you a superstar fundraiser? Let us know your ideas and you could be featured on our blog! just email info@ambassadorleaders.com.
By Meghan Kendle
Meghan, an educator from Oregon, has been an active member of Ambassador Leaders for years and has traveled the world with students. The best part of her year is participating in the Summits, and she can’t wait to see you there!