Funding the Gap: Booster Clubs in an Era of Changing Government Policies

Is Your Booster Club Ready for What's Coming?

In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer Podcast, hosts Robin Eissler and Evan Eissler discuss the evolving role of booster clubs amid upcoming federal and state educational regulations. They highlight the increasing importance of booster clubs to bridge funding gaps caused by potential budget cuts in schools. The conversation covers the history of booster clubs, strategies to maintain fundraising during economic downturns, and tips to ensure legal compliance and efficient budgeting. They also suggest collaborative efforts among different booster clubs and emphasize the necessity of a strategic fundraising plan.

 

Key Takeaways:

• 00:44 – New federal and state regulations may significantly impact schools — and Booster Clubs are on the front lines.
• 01:48 – Why Booster Clubs were created, and how their roles have grown as public funding shrinks.
• 02:20 – The growing disparity between high- and low-income areas in Booster Club support.
• 03:04 – What programs are likely to face the first cuts — and why enrichment activities may suffer most.
• 04:05 – Booster Clubs during economic downturns: why giving often increases when it’s needed most.
• 05:04 – How one Booster Club thrived during COVID by rethinking sponsor engagement and fundraising creativity.
• 06:33 – Challenges for low-income areas: weaker Booster Clubs, fewer resources, and greater need.
• 07:08 – Why clear communication with school districts and program leaders is more critical than ever.
• 07:36 – Legal watch-outs: Can your Booster Club legally fund staff salaries? Is your 501(c)(3) in good standing?
• 09:01 – Avoid donor fatigue: The importance of prioritizing impactful, high-return fundraisers.

Stay ahead of the curve! Share this episode with your board, review your legal structure, and plan your fundraising strategy today to ensure your Booster Club is ready for the changes ahead. 

 

Robin Eissler Links:

• Website: https://www.boosterhub.comLinkedIn:
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-eissler-31bb7a36