Calgary Flames Parking Fundraiser

School is in full bloom these days. But with the arrival of every September came shopping for the right stationary and the right clothes, unbelievably early mornings and astounding amounts of homework. School also brought another dreaded task: fundraising.

Whether it’s for a club, a team, or the general school finances, we can all recall trudging door to door, desperately trying to sell yet another coupon book or box of chocolates to yet another grumpy neighbour. Fundraising doesn’t have to be such a torturous nightmare, though.

I attend St. Mary’s High School, which is strategically located a mere 10 minute walk from the Calgary Saddledome. During Flames games, which there are many, we rent the staff parking lot to spectators at $10 a car. This fundraiser doesn’t require much time or effort, and it’s pretty simple in design. Cars that are looking for parking stop by the school and pay $10. They receive a printed ticket that informs them that the parking lot closes at midnight. They leave, enjoy the hockey game, return before midnight and pick up their car.

This activity can raise over $1,000 in a single night, and we don’t have to pay royalties to any company the way we would if we were selling cookies or chocolate. The best part is that the customers come to US! This fundraiser is used by our school’s Music Council to pay for band and choir activities such as festivals and camp. This fundraiser is also used by St. Monica’s Elementary and Jr. High school, located down the block from St. Mary’s, and at every well-located school.

If your school isn’t located near anything more popular than a McDonald’s, there’s still hope. This year, instead of selling candy, have your school apply to the government for a financial bailout!