What better way to spend a Saturday morning than sponsoring a car wash! This classic fundraiser is super easy to do. All you need are some common household cleaning items, an enthusiastic group of volunteers, and some dirty cars!
Prep Steps:
1. Secure a location for your car wash such a school parking lot, gas station, etc. Be sure that your space has a water hookup and is in a central location with high traffic volume.
2. Sell advance car wash tickets during the days leading up to your event.
3. Make huge signs to display all day. Stand on the sidewalk and flag people down.
Materials Needed:
1. Long garden hoses with nozzles
2. Buckets
3. Soap
4. Sponges and rags
5. A collection box or jar
Helpful Hints:
• Approach you local car wash and ask if they would be interested in helping out. Explain your playspace project and why they should become involved.
• Hold your car wash all day. For best results: 10am-4pm on a weekend.
• Location is the key to your success.
• Watch the weather and have the car wash on a sunny day.
TIP! Some communities have had success with “Topless Car Washes.” Before you blush, read on! Advertise that it’s a “Topless” car wash and set up the car washing area behind a business where it can't be seen from the street. People will flock to it out of pure curiosity! When the driver pulls into the wash area they find that a "Topless" car wash means 1) the bottom of the car is washed free but a donation of $X is required if they want the top washed; 2) the entire car is washed except for the roof for $X and for an additional $Y you wash the top; or 3) convertibles with the top down (topless) get a free wash! Pick the option you like best. Folks are generally pretty good natured and appreciate the ingenuity.
Raised: $$
When: O
Publicity: Low
Volunteers: 15
Challenge: Easy
Audience: 200
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