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How to Run a Car Wash Fundraiser with Your Troop
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Time to read 4 min
Never Struggle Planning Activities Again
Easy to use activity booklets for your troop meeting.Never Struggle Planning Activities Again
Easy to use activity booklets for your troop meeting.|
Time to read 4 min
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Looking to boost your troop’s funds? Fundraisers are a common way for Girl Scout troops to gather the extra money needed for activities, but figuring out where to begin can be challenging—especially if previous attempts fell short. Whether it's summer camp, wilderness adventures, STEM exploration, or a camping trip, these memorable experiences often require additional funding. Teaching your troop to raise money for a big event supports their goals and empowers them with skills to fund future endeavors.
Car washes are a simple and effective way to raise money in the spring or summer, offering a fun experience for the girls to enjoy. Some of my favorite memories and photos from my Girl Scout troop are from our fundraising events. I wanted to provide a stress-free, step-by-step guide to help you organize your own successful car wash fundraiser below.
Selecting the perfect spot for your car wash fundraiser is key! You'll want a location with plenty of traffic to attract as many customers as possible. A busy main street is ideal if you can arrange it.
Consider contacting churches, community centers, local businesses, or schools that might be willing to let you use their parking lots. They may appreciate the extra exposure, and you might be surprised at who says yes, even if you hear some no's along the way.
Once you’ve nailed down a date and location, it’s time to spread the word! If graphic design isn’t your forte, try using a free Canva account to create eye-catching flyers and social media graphics. Post flyers on community bulletin boards and share your graphics on your social media pages, as well as in local Facebook groups, to reach as many people as possible.
If your budget allows, consider buying or making signs to place in front of the fundraiser's location. This will help advertise the event ahead of time so people passing by will know when and where to find you.
Consider contacting churches, community centers, local businesses, or schools that might be willing to let you use their parking lots. They may appreciate the extra exposure, and you might be surprised at who says yes, even if you hear some no's along the way.
To ensure your car wash runs smoothly, you'll need to gather all the necessary supplies. If you want the girls to make signs to attract customers, stock up on poster boards and markers. You can ask the girls' families to contribute items or purchase them yourself. Having extra supplies on hand is always better than running out.
For the actual car wash, you’ll need sponges, rags, car wash soap, and possibly hoses if the location has spigots available. For the best results, consider using high-quality products like specialized car wash soap that is gentle on the vehicles.
If your event overlaps with mealtime, be sure to bring snacks or a meal for the girls to keep their energy up during the fundraiser.
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On the day of the car wash, arrive early to set up different stations with buckets, soap, sponges, and other necessary supplies. Brief your troop on pricing, services, and how to interact with donors. While setting up, the girls can create and hold signs to attract drivers. Also, plan for how to manage long lines if they occur.
Now for the fun part: running the fundraiser!
Have a few girls wave signs and direct customers into the lot.
Play some music to keep the energy high, and enjoy the day with your troop!
After the event, take time to debrief and teach your girls how to manage the money they've earned. This helps them develop a sense of ownership and learn valuable leadership and financial skills.
By handling the money, planning, budgeting, and understanding the impact of their efforts, the girls gain real-world skills that will benefit them in future endeavors. Watching their hard work pay off is a rewarding experience!
Organizing a car wash fundraiser with your troop is not only a fantastic way to raise money, but it's also an opportunity for the girls to learn valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and financial management. From selecting the right location to executing the event and managing the proceeds, each step is a chance for your troop to grow and bond over a shared goal.
With the right preparation and a positive attitude, your car wash fundraiser can be a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved. Plus, the funds you raise will help make those special troop activities—whether it’s summer camp, a wilderness adventure, or a STEM project—possible. By following these steps and using the tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a successful and enjoyable fundraiser that your girls will be proud of.
Enjoy every minute being a leader and continue to inspire your girls!
