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Cheer squads bring a ton of spirit to every game, but let’s be honest, fundraising can take a lot out of families. Between work, errands, and weekend competitions, it’s easy for parents to feel stretched thin. That’s where a custom team fundraiser can make a real difference. Instead of relying on the same few parents, we can shift the focus to a system that fits into busy schedules without the stress.
With the right plan, cheerleaders can take on more of the action, families can stay connected in short, easy ways, and no one feels like they’re doing it alone. We’re talking about fun, flexible ways to raise money that pull the squad together. Let’s look at some helpful ideas that can keep energy up without burning anyone out.
Make Fundraising Fun for the Squad
A fundraiser doesn’t have to feel like a chore. When cheerleaders are given a chance to run with it, they often get excited and stay engaged from start to finish. Rather than putting all the pressure on adults, give the squad roles that make sense for their strengths.
• Let them decide how to promote their online store or donation page and make it their own
• Start friendly challenges, like seeing who can get the most shout-outs on social media
• Explain what the money supports: travel costs, uniforms, comp fees, so they know what they’re working for
This approach builds motivation and keeps the mood positive as the fundraiser moves forward. When cheerleaders take pride in what they’re doing, they bring that same energy to the rest of the team.
Don’t Rely on Just a Few Parents
It’s easy to fall into a pattern where the same parents are always the ones helping. That wears people out fast. If we spread out the work, even small tasks can add up to big results. The key is making participation feel doable for everyone.
• Break jobs into 10 or 15-minute tasks so more people can pitch in
• Use group texts or apps to send reminders, updates, or thank-you notes
• Celebrate wins out loud with a quick cheer during practice or a shout-out on X
When our volunteers feel seen and appreciated, even for the little things, they’re more likely to help again. Positive energy builds fast when everyone has a way to be part of the effort.
Use a Custom Team Fundraiser That Works Anywhere
One of the biggest game changers is switching to a fundraiser that doesn’t rely on in-person selling or handing out products. A custom team fundraiser opens the door for relatives, neighbors, and fans all over the country to support the squad.
That means grandparents on the other side of the country can help out, friends from other teams can donate, and no one needs to go knocking door to door. Look for an online store or platform that:
• Doesn’t require handling product or keeping track of orders manually
• Works on a phone so it’s easy to share with others during downtime
• Ships items directly to each supporter so parents don’t have to organize pickup days
This setup helps reach more people while keeping the process simple for everyone involved. It’s less work but more impact.
Include the Whole Squad, Even During Breaks
Mid-season breaks, winter holidays, or travel weekends can slow momentum if we let them. But the good news is, fundraisers can keep going even when the gym is empty. A few small steps can keep everyone connected without a big time commitment.
• Post friendly reminders or progress updates in team chats or group apps
• Ask cheerleaders to send fun photos to share with supporters
• Break up fundraising goals into short weekly check-ins so nobody falls behind
Even if someone’s out of town or home sick, they can still participate by sharing a post, making a call, or telling a friend. The easier we make it to jump in, the more likely everyone stays active and involved.
Choose Products and Options People Actually Want
No one wants to be stuck selling something that doesn’t interest buyers. It’s much easier to get support when the products are fun, useful, or helpful in another way. Whether it’s tasty snacks or a donation program that does more than raise money, the right fit can lift the whole experience.
• Pick items that parents wouldn’t mind buying for their own families or as gifts
• Post clear, friendly descriptions so it’s easy to know what’s being offered
• Add a donation option that supports both the squad and creates community value
Some programs even create work opportunities for adults with disabilities, which adds meaning to every dollar raised. When people see the full picture, they’re more likely to pitch in.
Keep the Spirit Without the Stress
We all want our squads to shine without asking parents to give up their evenings and weekends. Fundraisers should help, not drain, the group. By spreading out the load and picking plans that match our team’s lifestyle, cheer becomes what it should be, fun and community minded.
Letting cheerleaders get more involved, giving parents only what they can handle, and choosing tools that work from anywhere are simple moves that add up. A smart, custom team fundraiser lets us cheer louder, connect better, and stress way less.
Ready to simplify fundraising and keep your whole team engaged without the stress? We can help your squad get started with ease. Our platform makes it simple to set up a custom team fundraiser that fits your schedule, works from anywhere, and brings in support from near and far. Whether your team is preparing for a new season or needs a mid-year boost, our flexible tools make group fundraising straightforward. At Team Butter, we’re dedicated to helping every participant stay active in the sport they love. Reach out to us to get started today.
