Every year, we work with thousands of amazing schools across the country to help them raise funds through leadership-infused events and high-energy experiences. And each time, right after the big celebration wraps up and the final numbers are tallied, we hear the same thoughtful question:
“Now that we’ve raised all this money… what should we do with it?”
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But what we can tell you is this: the best uses of fundraiser dollars are the ones that make a lasting impact—on learning, on community, and on student joy.
So, we asked schools what they’ve done with their funds—and the ideas we’ve heard are incredible. Whether you’re a principal, a PTA leader, or part of a school support team, here are some of the most inspiring and creative ways we’ve seen fundraiser dollars put to work.
🚧 Build Something That Lasts
Sometimes, the most impactful investments are the ones students can see and touch every day.
- 🧗♂️ Mountain climbing walls or upgraded playground equipment
- 🌿 Garden patios that become outdoor classrooms or peaceful lunch spaces
- 📺 Interactive hallway displays to showcase student work and school news
- 🌞 Shade structures over play areas to protect kids during hot days
These aren’t just additions to the building. They’re experiences and spaces that enhance your students’ daily lives.
📚 Enrich Learning & Empower Teachers
Want to fuel curiosity and support teachers’ creativity? These schools did just that:
🤖 Built STEM labs with robotics kits, 3D printers, or coding stations
📚 Stocked libraries with books that inspire confidence and empathy
💡 Teacher mini-grants so your educators can bring their most creative ideas to life
🧠 Funded guest speakers and workshops on mental health and student leadership
When you invest in learning, the return lasts far beyond one school year.
🎨 Spark Creativity & School Spirit
Let your school’s culture shine with projects that bring people together and celebrate student voices:
🎭 Installed stage lighting and sound systems for school performances
🎉 Hosted family engagement nights (STEM night, game night, culture night)
Your community raised these funds together. Why not use them to bring everyone together again?
🚌 Create More Experiences
Sometimes, what students remember most isn’t what happens in the classroom. It’s what happens beyond it.
🚍 Sponsored field trips to museums, nature centers, or colleges
🎼 Bought musical instruments and sports equipment for wider access
🪑 Upgraded to flexible seating to support different learning styles
Experiences stick with students, and these ideas help create opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.
You Did the Hard Part. Now Make It Count
Raising funds takes heart, hustle, and a lot of teamwork. But deciding how to use those funds? That’s where the magic can really happen.
No matter your school’s size, focus, or goals, the money you raised is a tool to build something greater: connection, creativity, and confidence in every student who walks your halls.
Need help deciding what’s possible for your budget or your campus? We’d love to chat and share what other schools have done. Just reach out or reply to this post—we’re always here to help.
Here’s to turning dollars into dreams. 💙
