As leaves change and temperatures drop, fall brings plenty of opportunities for DECA chapters to fundraise in seasonal, engaging and memorable ways. By tapping into the energy of autumn, you can raise funds while building community spirit and strengthening your chapter!
Here are five ideas to get you started:
1. Host a Fall-Themed Food Sale
Pumpkin spice, apple cider, caramel apples—the fall flavors practically sell themselves. Setting up a booth at school or sports events and offering seasonal treats with a DECA twist is an easy way to draw attention!
2. Host a Pumpkin Carving Event
Invite members and the community to a pumpkin carving event. Charge an entry fee that includes a pumpkin and carving supplies, and turn it into a competition by setting up categories for “most creative” or “best DECA-inspired design.” Sell snacks and drinks at the event to maximize revenue! This raises money and creates a fun event your chapter can repeat yearly.
3. Run a Tailgate Fundraiser
Friday Night Lights are back, which means football games are buzzing with energy, and stands are packed. Turn that excitement into a fundraising opportunity by hosting a DECA-themed tailgate. Sell hot drinks, snacks and game-themed merchandise before kickoff. Take it a step further by working with your school’s athletic department to make the game’s theme “DECA Night” and ask if a small portion of ticket sales can go toward supporting your chapter!
4. Plan a “Spooky Sprint” or Costume Fun Run
Put a festive twist on fitness by hosting a Halloween-themed 5K or fun run. Encourage runners and walkers to show off their most creative costumes, and award prizes for categories like “Spookiest Outfit,” “Best Group Costume” or “Most DECA Spirit.” Open the event to community members beyond your chapter and charge an entry fee to raise funds.
5. Host a “Trunk-or-Treat"
Make this event open to your community by encouraging parents to bring younger kids too! Have chapter members and families decorate the trunks of their cars with fall or Halloween themes and hand out candy. Charge a fee to enter the event and turn it into a competition by allowing people to buy a ticket to vote for the best trunk. You can also sell concessions and run games on the side.
Share your fall fundraising events on social media and tag @DECAnarvp on Instagram to be featured!
