• by Michele Campbell , September 16, 2013

It’s fall, and fundraising is in the air. Many organizations are prepping holiday giving and year-end appeals as we speak. I decided to poke around the “Interwebs” to see if any organizations are choosing unique ways to inspire donors to give. Here are some charity events that put the “fun” in fundraising:

• Over in Indiana, the Purdue University Dance Marathon is raising money —while raising the roof — for the Riley Hospital for Children’s Cancer Center and Camp Riley. Since it started in 2005, this event has significantly increased fundraising revenue each year. In 2012, $528,654 was raised to help kids and families. 

• Meanwhile in Brooklin, Ont., Group 74 For a Better Community has an annual Harvest Festival that includes exciting kids activities like a scarecrow-making contest, teddy bear picnic, bean bag games and sunflower planting. Proceeds from this family-friendly event go back to the community in different ways each year.

• In Michigan, brave souls hit the water every September for the United Way's “What Floats Your Cardboard Boat Race.” This year’s event raised $5,000 and kicked-off a larger campaign. Fourteen vessels with names like “Speed Racer” and “USS Ducktape” competed to support the community. 

What I love about these fundraisers is that they offer a good time for participants, spectators, vendors, and volunteers. These are true community builders, especially since proceeds support local needs.

• You likely have your fall campaigns all set, but it’s never too early to think about next year. Look around to see what other organizations are doing. Check out this list of 101 Fundraising Ideas that can be implemented all year round. And get out there and have some fun.