Fundraising Policy

For purposes of this policy, fundraising is defined as the collection of money through donations, sales, and/or admission to programs or events for the purposes of charitable donation or to enhance the operating budget of a student organization.

Student organizations must properly reserve space (and tables) through KCon for all on-campus fundraising activities.

The purpose for which the funds will be raised must be consistent with the purpose of the recognized student organization.

Department/departmental student organizations cannot co-sponsor/support fundraiser events with registered student organizations using departmental funding. 

Student organizations are responsible for ensuring that proposed activities comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws as well as campus rules and regulations.

A currently enrolled student member of the sponsoring recognized student organization must be present throughout the duration of the fundraiser. Funds collected are not to be left unattended.

Types of Approved Fundraisers

  • Cash donations
  • Donations of items of value (e.g., clothing, school supplies)
  • Items for sale that are directly related to the student organization’s mission or goals (e.g., plants sold by the Horticulture Club)
  • Items that promote school spirit (e.g., buttons, balloons)
  • Pre-packaged food items (e.g., candy, gum)
  • Items for sale that have been produced by the organization (e.g., gift baskets, bouquets of flowers)

Prohibited Sales 

Kenyon reserves the right to restrict all fundraising activities to reasonable times, places, and manners. The following activities are specifically prohibited:

  • Sales that interrupt regular business of the College (ie: going table to table in Peirce Hall).

  • Selling illegal or age-restricted items such as alcoholic beverages.

  • Selling items that require a background check such as firearms and weapons.

  • Selling homemade goods without a proper food service license.

  • Selling items that do not support the values of Kenyon College.

  • Door-to-door fundraising within College owned, operated or controlled property

  • Sale or distribution of items that violate trademark rights or existing contracts.

  • Formal fundraising events/programs soliciting parents, alumni, faculty or staff with the exception of those approved by the Advancement Division.

Accepting Donations

Student organizations may accept cash or electronic donations to be deposited in their fundraising or off-campus organization account within 3 business days of a completed fundraiser. 

Homemade Food Sales

The Knox County Health Department forbids selling (including fundraisers) homemade food products without a temporary food permit. The sale of homemade food may proceed without a permit only if items are offered for a donation and prices are not set or suggested. Temporary food permits for sales with posted prices may be obtained through the Knox County Health Department.

Fundraising Ideas For Student Organizations

Fundraising is an important element for many student organizations. Regardless of whether a group is raising money for a philanthropic cause or for a campus event, these ideas and tips should help point the group toward a successful fundraising venture

Fundraising dollars may be deposited into an organization’s fundraising account and remaining balances roll over from semester to semester. Fundraised dollars typically cover costs of things like:

  • Social events (dinners, dances, socials, alcohol, etc.)

  • T-shirt and/clothing sales

  • Supplies for fundraisers such as a car wash, pie in the eye or donation-based food sales

  • Purchases not permitted by the BFC such as personal gifts, clothing items, pizza/snacks for a meeting

Things to consider:

  • Set goals

  • Establish a target audience: What do they get? How do you make it matter to them?

  • Find a location for the fundraiser.

  • Determine the length of sale.

  • Make an advertising plan.

  • Follow school policies.

  • An important fundraising policy involves food. Organizations may ask for donations, but selling food or asking for a suggested donation is not allowed for home baked/produced goods for consumption.

  • Consider working with other organizations or departments.

  • Letters sent to parents or alumni to solicit funds must be approved by the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement.

  • Contact businesses in the area to see if they will work with your group (restaurants may have a “Kenyon Night” where a portion of the proceeds is donated to the group or cause, etc.

Theft of Donations

Theft of donations may be prosecuted by law, and individual students and/or student organizations will be subject to the Student Code of Conduct.