If you’re planning a school field trip with Refreshing Mountain this spring but feeling a little nervous about the cost, we’ve got you. Budgets can be tricky for any school, but they shouldn’t stand in the way of your students experiencing an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Have you considered fundraising for your upcoming trip?
With the right strategies in place, your group can not only make this trip happen but also build stronger connections along the way. (Because teamwork doesn’t start on the zipline đ.) Below are 7 proven FUN-raising strategies to help you reach your financial goals while keeping the process⌠well, refreshing.
1. Start Early & Set a Clear Fundraising Goal
This step can feel daunting, but trust us- it makes everything else easier. Once your trip is confirmed, create a clear game plan and financial goal. Evaluate your overall budget, factor in transportation costs (if applicable), and determine the total cost per student.
Giving students an individual fundraising goal is a powerful motivator and helps encourage personal responsibility. Individual effort paired with a shared goal? Thatâs a recipe for connection. Encourage students to intentionally share their goal with parents, family members, and supporters so everyone understands the target and can help track progress.
Our suggestion: Create simple, printed materials to send home with each student. Include information about Refreshing Mountain, what theyâll experience during the trip, what your group hopes to accomplish, and, of course, their fundraising goal. Clear goals = clear momentum.
2. Host a Community Fundraising Event
Now the fun really begins. Itâs time to bring the community into the adventure. Classic fundraisers are classics for a reason, but that doesnât mean they have to feel tired. With a little creativity, you can turn an âugh, another bake saleâ moment into something people actually look forward to. Choose 1-3 events your students are excited about and, hereâs the key, give them the reigns. This is their chance to step into the role of planner, promoter, and small-business connoisseur.
One fun idea? A destination-themed bake sale. Your students are fundraising for Refreshing Mountain Adventure Camp! Think towering evergreens, mountain views, flowing streams, and ziplines. Those themes are easy (and fun) to incorporate into baked goods, signage, and marketing materials. Give students creative freedom and let their personalities shine.
Another tried-and-true favorite is a student-run car wash. Bright posterboard signs, upbeat music, fun outfits, and lots of enthusiasm go a long way. The goal here is creativity and visibility. Themed dinners, talent shows, and school spirit weeks are also great ways to engage the community while building excitement around the trip.
3. Launch a Sponsor-A-Student Campaign
This classic approach is highly effective, especially when paired with a personal touch. Reach out to local businesses, school alumni, churches, and community members to sponsor individual students or contribute to the group fund.
Local communities are deeply invested in the future of their students. Whenever possible, have students help deliver fundraising materials in person. A friendly face and a clear purpose can make a big impact.
Be sure to recognize supporters along the way. Handwritten thank-you notes, social media shout-outs, or mentions in your school newsletter go a long way in helping donors feel connected to the experience. The goal is to make your community feel like theyâre part of getting your students to Refreshing Mountain, not just funding it.
4. Sell Popular Products
Product sales remain a tried-and-true fundraising staple for a reason. Consider selling items that are easy to distribute and appealing to a wide audience: cookie dough, popcorn, chocolate bars, subs, or even custom school merchandise.
Digital products like online coupons or vouchers can also be a great option with minimal logistics. Keep it simple, accessible, and convenient for both students and supporters.
5. Use Online Fundraising Platforms
Digital fundraising opens the door for friends and family, near and far, to contribute. Platforms like GoFundMe or school-specific fundraising sites allow you to share your story, set clear goals, and collect donations securely.
Pro tip: when creating printed fundraising materials, use a free design platform like Canva to generate a QR code that links directly to your donation page. The easier it is to give, the more likely people are to do it. Convenience makes a difference.
6. Offer Student Services
Put your studentsâ skills to work! A fun approach is to have students create âmock resumes.â Add a headshot of their choice, a few fun facts, and a list of skills theyâre comfortable offering.
Can they help with basic tech tasks? Mow lawns? Garden or weed? Babysit or entertain younger kids? Students with licenses could even help with errands for elderly neighbors or busy families, like grocery runs.
This method builds responsibility, confidence, and real-world skills while giving supporters a tangible benefit in return. Itâs a win-win.
7. Final Tip: Keep Fundraising Fun & Positive
Celebrate milestones, involve the entire community, and regularly remind students whatâs waiting for them at the finish line: a day filled with adventure, exploration, and meaningful connection at Refreshing Mountain.
With creativity, determination, and a positive mindset, your group can absolutely make this experience a reality.
Why Choose Refreshing Mountain for Your School Field Trip?
Refreshing Mountain offers hands-on learning experiences, outdoor adventure, and team-building opportunities in a safe, scenic environment. From ziplines and nature programs to archery and high ropes courses, your students will gain knowledge, confidence, and memories that last a lifetime.
Weâll see you on the mountain!