Value and values of fund raising

I won't make suggestions or critiques of the infinite variety of fund raisers, but make a few observations about the phenomenon in general. The value and values of fund raising need always to be thought through explicitly:

• Is the sole goal to raise as much money as possible?
  
• How much has to be raised?
  
• Can it be done in one event or a series of events or activities?
  
• Is group building an important element?
  
• Do the youth actually have time to do the project? You can't accept promises. Look at their schedules and track record for showing up.
  
• How much of a mess will the project be and who is likely to be offended or impacted by the project?
  
• Will the youth themselves be doing the project or is it a parent project?
  
• Is the project ethical? Is it more than just fancy begging or tricking people?
  
• How much are you willing to rely on sympathy, guilt or the aren't-they-cute factor?