Chapter Fundraising

Fundraising

Fundraising is a necessary activity for any Sigma Tau Delta chapter. Without money, chapter activities are limited. A successful chapter may receive support from the Department of English, the student government association, and the campus community. How a chapter elicits support influences the image of Sigma Tau Delta on campus. It is necessary to be sensitive to the community and to make sure that campus leadership is well aware of the ways in which the chapter contributes to the school. According to Dr. Robert Halli at The University of Alabama, "You increase your chances for success in soliciting funds from campus sources if you can convince these sources it is to their benefit to give you funds." His chapter has long been very successful in raising funds for chapter activities and for members to attend the annual international convention.

In general, when raising money, a chapter should set specific, realistic goals and make a clear plan for achieving those goals. Set target dates by which money is needed, make a list of possible sources, and assign individual chapter members particular tasks. Make sure the entire burden of raising money is not left with one chapter member or one sponsor. Financial support for the chapter should be the responsibility of all its members.

Funding Sources

Chapter dues

Chapters may require local dues from members, either on a one-time basis at the time of induction or on a yearly basis. Local chapter dues are not to be confused with the one-time induction fee for new members which must be sent to the Central Office along with the membership enrollment form. Chapters keep local dues in their chapter treasury to pay for administrative costs, chapter activities, etc.

School Organizations

  • Ask for funds from the English department, college, student government association, alumni association, etc.  Chapters can request funds to cover chapter activities or administrative costs. Chapter can also request funds for special events such as hosting a conference or workshop, or sending members to the international convention.
  • Department of English Budget. Since most chapters are usually sponsored by the Department of English, the chair and/or administration may be persuaded to put an allowance for the chapter into the budget.
  • Student Government Activity Funds. On some campuses, organizations can ask for grants from the student activity funds. This is particularly appropriate for special activities, such as bringing speakers to the campus, or publishing a literary magazine.
  • Foundations and Humanities Councils. College foundations and state humanities councils may provide funding for the Alumni Funds. Most campuses have well-organized alumni associations which have money available to support student activities, especially those activities which raise the visibility of the school and bring outside people to campus. Business Sponsors for Specific Events. Local bookstores may help sell T-shirts, or restaurants may help to sell food. A computer company might want to support a workshop or symposium. Many businesses will support events if they can be mentioned in the program.

Money‑Raising Projects

Many chapters have successful money raising projects that can be used successfully by other chapters. See Chapter Activies: Fundraising Ideas.