Hot Fund Raising Ideas from the Arizona Desert!

To say that Arizona’s credit unions believe in the credit union spirit is to say the least. As of 2001 Arizona ranks only behind California in total fund raising dollars through their expansive Credit Unions for Kids fund raising program. In 2001, Arizona raised $278,000. This represents a $50,000 increase in total fund raising dollars over 2000 and could not happen without the support of credit union members throughout Arizona. Arizona’s credit union members each contribute an average of 22 cents- this makes Arizona’s per-member contribution the highest in the country.

What is the secret to Arizona’s success? The Arizona Credit Union System, credit union employees, volunteers and members believe in the mission of Children's Miracle Network. Such support creates miracles as Arizona fund raising benefits both Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Tucson Medical Center. With fundamental program support in place, Arizona has both implemented best practices seen in other states and developed their own elements of success. “Organization is key,” states Sandy Watts. “The statewide steering committee works hard to support and organize the program and communicate to participating credit unions.”

Listed below is a turnkey best practices list from Arizona that you can implement at your credit union or state league:

• Depending on hospital location(s) develop a statewide or area steering committee to plan, organize and recognize participating credit unions.
  
  
• Never miss the opportunity to educate credit unions, management or members. Something as simple as a “Did you know…” Children's Miracle Network factoid in each newsletter works great!
  
  
• Never miss the opportunity to recognize and congratulate outstanding fund raising totals or innovative fund raising practices. Group credit unions by branch, chapter and/or state and recognize the top players.
  
  
• Develop a “traveling trophy” between the top credit unions to be moved between the star players each year.
  
  
• Support and coverage from the league or association level is critical.
  
  
• Work on top management integration within each credit union and bring this enthusiasm down to the teller level.
  
  
• Recognize top credit unions on both a total funds raised and a per member basis.
  

Hot fund raising ideas that have made Arizona credit unions champions for kids:

• Tournaments (golf, bowling, etc.)
• Raffles (check legality with local gaming laws and regulations)
• Casual days
• Craft and bake sales
• World’s Finest Chocolate/Candy Bar Sales
• Miracle Balloons with coupons attached

With dedication and turnkey fund raising Arizona credit unions are true champions for kids! Add any number of these valuable tips from Arizona to your fund raising campaign and watch the number of miracles you help perform soar!

Let us know what you are doing at your credit union or state league! Email us at creditunions@childrensmiraclenetwork.org!