Things To Know Before Planning Your PTA Fundraiser Color Run

There’s nothing wrong with classic PTA fundraising ideas like raffles and silent auctions. But if you want to mix it up and engage with your students and community, a color run school fundraiser is simply one of the best PTA fundraising ideas. It’s an event that is popular, community-driven, genuinely fun – and it offers multiple revenue streams. 

But there are a few things to know before you start planning.

Where To Host It 

The right location is foundational to the success of your fundraiser. Color run fundraisers for schools can simply be hosted at the school’s track and field area. Hosting a color run (or walk!) fundraiser on the school campus comes with a variety of perks that can boost the overall success of the event:

• Ease of Access: Students, parents, and staff are already familiar with the location, making it easier for them to attend. Familiarity with the location can lead to higher participation rates from students, parents, teachers, and community members.
• No Venue Rental Fees: Using the school campus eliminates the need to rent an external venue, saving money that can be directed toward fundraising goals.
• Utilize Existing Facilities: Take advantage of the school’s resources such as restrooms, water fountains, tables, PA systems, and parking lots without additional costs.
• Controlled Environment: The school campus is a controlled environment, making it easier to manage safety and security measures.
• On-Campus Advertising: Promote the event through school announcements, posters, and newsletters to reach a captive audience.
• Visibility: Hosting the event on campus makes it highly visible to students and staff, encouraging more spontaneous participation and support.
• Staff and Volunteers: It can be easier to recruit school staff and parent volunteers who are already invested in the school community.

Alternate location ideas can include local parks, tracks, trails, and other public spaces. But beware when using public spaces that additional permits and rules may apply. Always check with local authorities about any permits needed for your event. 

When To Host It

Aside from your location, the date of your event can make – or break – your goals. Invest time to research local happenings and choose a date that doesn’t conflict with other local events or holidays.

How Much Color Powder

Determining the right amount of color powder for your color run is the key to a fun, color-filled event. The last thinking you want at a color run is sparse color stations, or worse, running out of color powder.  

On average, plan for about 1-2 pounds of bulk color powder per participant for the entire event. If your run is focused on heavy coverage, estimate 1.5-2 pounds of bulk color powder per participant.

For a more specific estimate, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you calculate the amount of color powder you’ll need:

1. Estimate the number of participants by combining pre-registration numbers to get a good estimate of how many people will be participating. Add in additional participants who may register on the day of the event.
2. Decide how many color stations your course will host. 4-6 stations are typical. Each station will need enough powder to cover all participants.

Then use our color powder calculator for quick color powder calculations and use our quick order table to easily place your order. We recommend adding at least a 10% buffer to your total to account for any unexpected needs.

What Kind Of Color Powder

Your color powder fundraiser will need at a minimum bulk color powder. Bulk color powder comes in 1lb, 5lb, and 20lb options. 

You may want to pick up squeeze bottles to make color stations more effective and efficient in spraying runners with powder. Squeeze bottles, both large and small, offer more controlled dispensing over throwing color powder.

And, remember to get plenty of color powder packets if your fundraising plans include selling individual color packets on-site for donations. 

What Supplies and Accessories To Get 

When planning a color run fundraiser, having foundational supplies and the right accessories can not only elevate the experience, they can be an additional source of fundraising. Here are some must-have accessories for a successful color run:

White t-shirts are a canvas for the color powder and creates a uniform look for participants. Consider printing the event name and date on the shirts to create a wearable souvenir.

Bandanas protect hair and sensitive lungs from the color powder and add a fun, colorful accessory that can match the event colors or theme.

Sunglasses protect eyes from color powder and bright sunlight and can be worn many times as a reminder of your cause and event. 

Course markers and signage clearly mark the race route, color stations, water stations, and start/finish lines. Use bright, colorful signs that match your event theme.

Race bib numbers are essential for identifying participants and accurate race timing and results. Opt for race bibs with a perforated ticket for race registration or a raffle – like ours!. This added feature simplifies the registration process and adds an element of excitement with a raffle draw.

How To Make It Unforgettable 

From the moment participants arrive to the final post-race celebration, every detail can make your event stand out. Here are some key ideas to elevate your color run to a memorable occasion that participants will talk about for years to come.

Set the Tone:

• Transform registration into a vibrant celebration with balloon arches, colorful posters, and lively music.

• Water and Snack Stations: Keep participants refreshed with hydration and snacks along the route.
• Cheering Sections: Set up cheering areas with fun, motivational posters to encourage participants.

Post-Race Activities:

• After-Party: Host an after-party with music, guest speakers, and award ceremonies.
• Unique Awards/Medals: Order medals or certificates to recognize participants’ achievements. Include the event name, date, and categories (e.g., fastest runners, best costume).
• Recognition: Publicly thank and recognize volunteers and sponsors.
• Raffle Prizes: Announce raffle prize winners and distribute exciting prizes.
• Live Entertainment: Book local performers to maintain high energy after the race.
• Relaxation and Stretching Zones: Provide areas for participants to relax and stretch post-race.

• Collaborative Art Project: Set up an area for participants and guests to use sidewalk chalk to contribute to a community art piece.

Create a VIP Experience:

Raise additional funding in exchange for a few well-planned perks:

• Reserve premium parking spots for VIP participants.
• Print race bibs with participants’ names or custom messages.
• Provide exclusive race kits with additional goodies.
• Create a dedicated lounge area with comfortable seating and refreshments.
• Publicly acknowledge VIP participants during announcements.

By incorporating these elements, your color run will not only be a memorable event but also a cherished experience for all participants.

Color Run Fundraiser For Schools

Planning a PTA fundraiser color run can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor that brings your community together in a fun-filled way. With the right planning and execution, your color run will not only raise significant money for your cause – it will be a highlight of the school year, celebrated and remembered for years to come.