Throwing a party is a great way to have fun and raise money for a good cause at the same time. Let your creativity and imagination run wild as you plan a party that your friends will be talking about for years to come.

There are several ways that parties can be planned so that they serve as a fundraiser. You can charge an entry fee (which may or may not include food), charge for food/drinks, have raffles and auctions or just request donations.

For this Resource Roundup I’m including links to articles that have appeared on our websites that give many ideas for event themes and strategies for success.

Host a Halloween Costume Party Fundraiser by Lynn Smythe

Tap Into Volunteers’ Strengths for a Successful Charity Event by Carrie Hill

Wine Tasting Party – Like a Fine Wine, Fundraising Should be Savored by Lisa Krueger

Caribbean Carnival Parade Raises Funds for School by Rosa Hanst-Fernandes Correia

Dance Marathons: a Fundraiser That Gets Everyone Involved by Abigail Beal

Make Friends & Raise Funds with a Fundraising Houseparty my review of Morrie Warshawski’s book (now in it’s second edition) which shows how to ask for donations in a party setting. Giving circles are another variation on the donation drive house party.

I reported on the success of my women’s club first Trivia Night in 2006.  It’s been so much fun that we’ve had two more since then.  This year we even added an audio round of questions.  It’s also grown in attendance and total funds raised each year.

Another themed party would be the Murder Mystery Party Fundraiser or even a Birthday Party.  Throw a birthday party for your organization, for its director, or for yourself.  Register at local retail outlets where all the birthday presents benefit the cause.

If food is your theme, here’s three different variations on an ice cream social event and four ways to raise funds with pizza.  Or how about the Chocolate Lovers Brunch that Darrell Laurant reported on last year.  Chocolate… Yummm!

Any other ideas for party fundraisers?