Having a car wash to raise money for a charity is another classic. If it seems overwhelming to plan, keep in mind people know they are having their car washed for charity and not a perfect wash. The car wash provides them with a chance to donate to a cause, but do not let this stop you from providing them a good service for their money. Be friendly, play music, and while time flies by your cashbox will be piling up.
Getting the word out
Social media is a great way to do this, as is word of mouth. Have signs made and ready for the day. Have people holding signs by every lot entrance and walking around the lot perimeter. Make sure your sign includes what charity the money is being raised for. In my experience, raising money for cancer research and treatments, people were more than generous with payment. Be prepared to have a rain date.
Location
Call ahead as early as possible! Spots fill up fast. Though if you do it last minute and get a less than ideal time, in our case a long weekend when everyone was away, take it any way. Some money is better than no money. My experience was with Ontario locations, calling places such as Speedy and Canadian Tire.
Be on the same page with the lot owner
This was a lesson learned for me. I asked the owner to have the lot from 9-4. He said they could offer it from 11-4. By 2 p.m. he shut us down. Also make sure to ask what entrance they want traffic coming in, and talk about parking spaces.
Pricing
Say five dollars, but as it is a charity, the majority of people will be more than happy to offer more.
Volunteers
People will say they are on board until the day of the car wash. This is true with all fundraising events. Follow up and remind people as the date approaches. Be prepared for no-shows.
Take who you can. With me, the girls in bikini thing not only limited the people willing to help but conflicted with feminist ideals. Though some girls did sport bikini tops, we had guys wash cars as well, and even a ten year old (who convinced the most drivers to come and get their car washed.) Accept all the help you can get.
Supplies
- Sponges
- Paper towel
- Hoses
- Hose splitter
- Car soap
- Window cleaner
- Buckets
- Cash box
- Change
Wash technique
Rinse the vehicle, lather it with soap, wash, the rinse again before drying.
Thank your volunteers
Have a barbeque after, I couldn’t do this due to starting a new job immediately after but my helpers sure deserved it. At the very least make sure you have refreshments ready for all participants.
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