Sounds pretty exciting. There are numerous things that can be tried. In my own experience we have had one-day parking events (one of the simplest and best fundraisers ever), balls, dinners honoring individuals, "Simple Suppers", auctions, photo exhibits, book sales, festivals, hot dog sales at Indy 500 trials, art exhibit and sales, etc. The idea is making something that is simple, that could be repeated, has the least preparation time, fits the proper demographic for your Friends group, and is fun for the participants. I would recommend trying any fundraiser for three years. If you are not meeting your fiscal goals after that period of time, then think about something else. If you are meeting your goals, howeve, and have room to grow, then continue-on and make a tradition. peace, Nick

-----Original Message-----
>From: "Burns, James (William)" <[log in to unmask]>
>Sent: Feb 8, 2008 6:41 PM
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: [MUSEUM-L] "Friends" Groups Fundraising Ideas
>
>I work for a relatively small community history museum.  We have a
>"Friends" group that is going through a major transition and is trying
>to redefine itself.  They are closing the museum store they have run for
>over 20 years and are looking for suggestions for potential fundraising
>ideas.  Keep in mind this is a group of citizens from "founding
>families" of the city - and while they have much passion for the
>organization they don't have a lot of means themselves.  Any ideas you
>may have based on successful activities or events your own "Friends"
>groups have done would be much appreciated.  You may respond off-list to
>the email below.
>
>Many thanks!
>
>James Burns
>
>Curator of History
>Tempe Historical Museum
>809 E. Southern Ave.
>Tempe, AZ 85282
>[log in to unmask]
>480.350.5110
>480.350.5150 fax
>
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The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).