Creative School Fundraising Ideas That Worked in 2024 & 2025
School fundraising doesn’t have to mean the same old car wash or coupon book. In 2024 and 2025, schools across the country proved that creative ideas, when paired with passion and community support, can raise money and awareness in powerful ways. Whether you’re a parent, educator or student looking for your next big idea, these real fundraisers are packed with inspiration, impact and fun.
Crazy Hat Day
The Belgrade School District in Montana has turned Hat Day into a beloved annual tradition, and this past year marked their 12th annual fundraiser. For a minimum donation of $1 to Cookies for Kids’ Cancer, students could wear their wildest, wackiest hats to school for the day. The halls were filled with creativity, color and laughter, all for a good cause. To spark a little friendly competition, the class that raised the most money won a cookie party donated by the organization. The simple concept continues to be a big success, bringing in donations year after year while raising awareness and school spirit. Last year the school district raised over $6,000, which all went directly to funding pediatric cancer research.
Bringing the Cause to the Crowd
At Myers Park High School in North Carolina, students took the lead by creating a Cookies for Kids’ Cancer club dedicated to raising awareness and funds throughout the school year. The club gives students a chance to get directly involved, build leadership skills and make a difference in their community. Some of their most successful efforts include hosting bake sales at school soccer and basketball games, turning the school’s sports crowd into a supportive fundraising audience. This past school year they raised over $500. With every cookie sold, the club spreads the message that everyone can do something to help, one sweet treat at a time.
A Sweet Sticker, A Big Impact
At William H. Loesche Elementary School, a kindergarten class turned a simple bake sale into a heartwarming lesson in giving back. Each morning before lunch, cookies were sold outside the classroom, and every child who donated, no matter the amount, received an “I’m a Good Cookie” sticker. The stickers quickly became a badge of honor, sparking curiosity and inspiring classmates to donate the next day. The teacher used Classroom Dojo to keep parents informed and involved, sharing updates about the fundraiser and where the money was going. In just one week, they raised over $2,000! Though the event was limited to kindergarten for its first year, the success and excitement it generated have inspired plans to expand schoolwide next year.
These fundraisers are a powerful reminder that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, schools can make a meaningful difference. Each total shared above reflects not just the dedication of students, teachers, and families, but also the generous support of OXO, whose matching contributions helped amplify every effort during the Bake A Difference Campaign.
Interested in getting your school involved? Reach out to Emily at emily@beagoodcookie.org to start planning a fundraiser that’s as fun as it is impactful.