1. Apply for Grants and Sponsorships
There are many public and private grants available for school trips and student development. Start by checking:
- Local education foundations
- Community service organizations like Rotary or Kiwanis
- Your school district’s grants coordinator or funding office
Pro Tip: Frame your request around how LEAD helps build school culture, student voice, and leadership skills that benefit the entire campus. Get started using our Grant Checklist, which includes research ideas, a template to craft your proposal, and follow-up steps.
2. Partner With Local Businesses
Leverage your school’s community connections. One NHS chapter held a “Philanthropy Rush” week with events sponsored by local businesses—think raffles, giveaways, and shared promotions.
Try this:
- Ask a local pizzeria to donate a portion of lunch sales for a day.
- Host a “Sponsor a Leader” campaign with shoutouts on social media.
- Bagging groceries at local stores for donations.
3. Tap Into Fundraising Platforms
Platforms like SnapRaise help students raise money efficiently and expand their reach beyond family and friends. Some chapters have raised hundreds just by sharing links on social media and texting relatives.
It’s fast, low effort, and surprisingly effective when the whole group gets involved.
4. Make the Most of Homecoming
Use existing school events like homecoming week to your advantage. Sell spirit wear, offer photo booth experiences, or host a student –vs. staff game. People are already excited and engaged—just give them a reason to donate.
5. Get Creative Around the Holidays
An NJHS chapter raised funds by hosting a “Scholastic Spirit Week” leading up to Thanksgiving, with themed dress days and small donations to participate. Ugly sweater days, gift wrapping stations, or candy grams around Valentine’s Day also work well.
6. Host a Low-Cost Activity Night
Cornhole tournaments, game nights, movie nights—these kinds of events bring people together and don’t cost much to organize. Charge a small entry fee or offer concessions for additional fundraising.
7. Promote It as a Leadership Investment
Sometimes, just telling your story makes a difference. Write a short letter or email to parents, teachers, or even your school board, explaining how attending LEAD will help you bring back tools, ideas, and energy to improve your school community. People want to support student leaders—they just need to be asked.
8. Combine Forces
If your school has both NHS and NASC programs, consider attending together. You can share travel and hotel costs, coordinate fundraising, and even combine project ideas—making it easier (and more fun) to get there.
9. Contact Alumni
Have your council and chapter members contact NHS and NASC alumni to help sponsor a student. They know firsthand the value of these in-person, life-changing experiences.
