Buck-Icon Foundation

FUN-Raising Opportunities

Secret Santa Shop

The Secret Santa Shop provides an opportunity for students to purchase gifts for friends and family, while promoting a sense of responsibility and encouraging decision-making and budgeting. We offer items that range in price from 25 cents to $10. There are gifts for Moms, Dads, brothers, sisters, pets, grandparents, friends... everyone! The kids really enjoy the opportunity to make their own selections, but we do offer guidance. Depending on the timeline and your particular situation, we can solicit donations to fund a "Santa Bucks" program that provides money for those kids who can't afford to shop, disguised as a "drawing" to reduce any stigma. I would be happy to provide details about this part of the program.

Art Hop!

The "Art Hop!" is a gallery-style showcase of students' art. Typically, a medium is chosen be each grade level or by class - at your discretion - and students create an art piece for display. Some suggested mediums include papier mache, string art, chalk on black paper, sculpture, painting, etc. Students are sent home with beautiful invitations; their works are displayed with "auction numbers" during an evening event featuring punch, cookies and music; and supporters "bid" on the artwork by making a donation. All bid tags are removed so students do not feel left out in the event they aren't able to have a parent or family member attend.

Fitness Walk-a-Thon

Students get pledges to sponsor them for a fitness walk-a-thon. Prizes are offered for different levels of pledges. The event features costumed characters, former OSU athletes, music and fun - while emphasizing healthy habits and community service. Kids earn stickers or beads for laps walked and get very excited to participate. Prizes are customized for your school and include things such as pencils, gloves, tee shirts, blankets and other items with your school mascot. We will also solicit corporate sponsors on your behalf to increase your profits.

School Carnival

We can also help you put on a school carnival that can foster a sense of connection among students, parents and staff. Activities include inflatables, small carnival-type games, a cake walk, and refreshments. Teachers and staff can work the games and have an opportunity to bond with students in a unique way outside the regular school environment.

Silent Auction

Having a silent auction is a great way to raise funds for any type of event you're planning. The BUCK-ICON Foundation can create an event for you, or have the silent auction in conjunction with your scheduled event. The silent auction consists of great OSU Memorabilia items that have been generously donated by individuals, organizations, and corporations used for the sole purpose of fund raising.

FAQ's

How do you get started? The first thing we need to do is get your chosen event on our calendar. We can discuss your goals and create an event to suit your needs.

What is provided by the School Project?
We will provide all necessary written pieces, including flyers to be sent home, envelopes for collection, posters, prize forms, pledge forms, etc. You will be provided a detailed calendar of your event with all activities leading up to it to keep you and your staff informed. We will provide staffing for the event for a fee if parent booster volunteers are not available. If applicable, we will order and process prizes. We will collect and deposit monies and present you with a check. It's that easy.

What do I need to do?
First, it is helpful to discuss the event with all teachers and staff. It makes the event so much better to have everyone on board and excited. I am happy to attend a staff meeting to present the information for you! It is also a good idea to have a kick-off for some events, depending on the type. I am happy to provide updates to teachers or staff if I am provided a list of e-mail addresses. If the event will involve a parent group or volunteers, it is a good idea to have a meeting with that group to present the plan.

What is your experience with running these events?
I have been an officer of my sons' Parent Booster Group for 8 years. In that capacity, I have had exposure to many types of fundraisers and became very frustrated with what was available. I wanted programs that provided the necessary funds but that didn't exploit the students or their parents and families. I began creating and executing events that focused on community involvement rather than children hawking wrapping paper or other items. About a year ago, I became associated with James Cotton and his foundation, helping him with various events in my capacity as event and party planner. Our mutual commitment to children's issues fostered our partnership and commitment to creating this project.

What if I have a question or concern?
Please feel free to call me with any concerns or questions - before during or after an event. I am always willing to provide guidance and help resolve any issues. I can be reached at 740-404-2201 or at Cynthia@buckicon.com.

Buck-Icon Founder