1. Finding a Beneficiary·2. Project Proposal·3. Final Plan·4. Fundraising·5. Execution·6. Final Report·7. Eagle Application·8. Your Council & District
4. Fundraising
Understand when you need council approval to raise money or solicit materials from outside sources.
Checklist
- Determine total project cost and what the beneficiary will provide.
- Check if donations come only from beneficiary, family, unit, or parents (no application needed).
- If soliciting broader community donations, complete the Fundraising Application.
- Submit fundraising application to council if required.
- Track every donor: organization, contact, and contribution.
- Send thank-you notes after the project.
Tips
- Many school district projects use school-provided materials - confirm before fundraising.
- Keep funds in the beneficiary's name when required by your council.
- Unused funds go to the beneficiary per BSA policy.
Common mistakes
- Running a GoFundMe without council approval when third-party donations are involved.
- Mixing personal funds with project accounting without records.