How to Plan a Breakfast with Santa Event

During the holidays, many schools, churches and groups plan a holiday Breakfast with Santa fundraiser. In fact, this is one of the simplest and most fun fundraisers you can host.

Step 1. Select a Charity

The first thing you'll need is a charity to receive the funds. To me, the best charities to benefit would be related to children - at least during the holidays. Is there a children's hospital in your town? Or a mission that helps families?

Of course, Toys for Tots is another charity to consider. Rather than requiring an entry fee, have each participant bring a new toy to donate.

Step 2. Location & Time

Now you can begin to plan a date and time. Contact local churches and your city offices to see if you can use their facilities for the event. If one place says "no" keep asking. You will probably need to sign a contract that states you will follow the rules of the building and will clean up after the event. Secure the facility as soon as you can in advance on the event.

Step 3. Find Volunteers

Now that you've reserved a place and you have your date, it's time to call in the troops. You'll need lots of resources (people and supplies). Hopefully, by asking around, you'll be able to find ways to get plenty of both for free.

Some places to contact are:
Local Military (If you have a base nearby.), High School Sports Clubs, Colleges and Universities, Local Businesses, Stores, Restaurants, Girl and Boy Scouts, Churches, Schools, and Moms Clubs.

Of course you need a Santa. Ask around and you'll find someone willing to recruit a family member.

Step 4. Determine Entertainment & Activities

Of course the main attraction will be Santa and the pancakes. However, if you have a large turnout (and, hopefully you will) you'll want to have other activities planned to entertain the children while they are waiting for their turn with Santa.

Set up a coloring or craft table for the kids. Games are also fun. Alter games you know and put a Christmas twist on them - like pin the nose on Santa.

Set up a storytelling area. All you'll need is a quiet area, some good Christmas books, and comfy cushions.

Plan photos with Santa. Find a local photographer. Allow the photographer to display a sign for publicity and ask her to donate a percentage of sales to your organization. Oftentimes photographers are happy for the opportunity.

And, of course, Face Painting is a must have.

Step 5. Get the Word out About Your Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser

Now, get the word out so your event is a huge success!

Provide flyers at all the following locations:
Bookstores, Elementary Schools, Grocery Stores, Libraries, Preschools and Daycares.

Also, contact local newspaper, radio stations, and free family publications. Give the news something positive to report about.

That's all there is to it. From there, just enjoy your event, knowing you're doing something wonderful and helping others. Merry Christmas!

Nicole Dean is a freelance writer. She recommends www.EZFacePainting.com a resource that teaches how to paint simple cheek designs in minutes – even if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush in your life.

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