What do you think of my PTA fundraising idea?

[mumblechum]

I've recently set up a freelance Will writing service (I'm a lawyer and have been writing wills in private practice for donkey's years).

To give the business a bit of a kick start, I'm thinking of emailing a few local schools' PTA chairs suggesting that an announcement is put in their newsletter offering a donation from my fee to any parents who make a will with me. The donation would go to the PTA and would be roughly 20% of the fee. Even if only 10% of the parents took me up on the offer, that could add up to quite a large donation, with little or no effort by the PTA.

What do you think? Pros, Cons, other ideas all gratefully received.

Bump

Not getting overwhelmingly enthusiastic vibes here - maybe I should re-think!

Hmm, thanks for that CAt. The newsletter goes out purely as an email on a monthly basis, so space isn't an issue, but yes, they'd need to be sure I was a genuine professional (I am, I have twenty years experience and am fully qualified, but they don't know that for sure, Iguess.).

Maybe I'll get a few references from people (everyone I've written Wills for so far have said they'd be happy to recommend me).

Thanks for your input.

I agree with cat, from a PTA's perspective, about setting a precedent. Also, how long were you expecting this arrangement to last? a one-off would have limited value, a year-long campaign may annoy bore people.

From your POV, would it be better to make this a time-limited offer. A will is one of those things that we all intend to get around to one day but never quite do. If you have an insert in something a bit more permanent and serious (IYSWIM) than a newsletter (say a concert programme) but with an expiry date on the offer than some people may be more likely to actually get round to it.

"Even if only 10% of the parents took me up on the offer, that could add up to quite a large donation, with little or no effort by the PTA."
I'm sure that most PTA would be delighted if 10% read the newsletter, never mind acting on it. Like I said, you may get more reaction from a publication in which the parents have a vested interest eg a programme where their PFB might get a mention.

That's a jolly good idea Senua.

I suspect you might not get the reponse you'd like because the people you are hoping to attract are within your social circle, albeit loosely. Even though there is no reason to doubt your professional (and confidential) credentials, they might prefer the anonymity of having their will done in an ordinary solicitor's office. They might just feel they are divulging too much personal information to you.