Leap Year

A leap year is a year containing one additional day.  This is done in order to keep the calendar year synchronized with the astronomical or seasonal year.  Because seasons and astronomical events do not repeat in a whole number of days, a calendar that had the same number of days in each year would, over time, drift with respect to the event it was supposed to track. By occasionally inserting an additional day into the year, the drift can be corrected. A year that is not a leap year is called a common year.

February 29 is a date that usually occurs every four years, and is called leap day. This day is added to the calendar in leap years as a corrective measure, because the earth does not orbit around the sun in precisely 365 days.

The Julian calendar, which was developed in 46 BC by Julius Caesar, and became effective in 45 BC, distributed an extra ten days among the months of the Roman Republican calendar. 

Folk Traditions

In Britain and Ireland, it is a tradition that women may propose marriage only on leap years. While it has been claimed that the tradition was initiated by Saint Patrick or Brigid of Kildare in 5th century Ireland, this is dubious, as the tradition has not been attested before the 19th century.  Supposedly, a 1288 law by Queen Margaret of Scotland (then age five and living in Norway), required that fines be levied if a marriage proposal was refused by the man; compensation was deemed to be a pair of leather gloves, a single rose, £1 and a kiss.

In some places the tradition was tightened to restricting female proposals to the modern leap day, February 29, or to the medieval leap day, February 24.

According to Felten: "A play from the turn of the 17th century, 'The Maydes Metamorphosis,' has it that 'this is leape year/women wear breeches.' A few hundred years later, breeches wouldn't do at all: Women looking to take advantage of their opportunity to pitch woo were expected to wear a scarlet petticoat—fair warning, if you will.

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Internal Fundraising

Today we are going to look into a totally different fundraiser.  Let’s call this an internal fundraiser for lack of any better title.

We are going to make some assumptions to go along with this, but feel free to apply this to any other organization.  So, here we go.  You are responsible for raising funds for a large sports team.  The group has more than 200 hundred families involved.

As part of sign-up day you ask that each family contributes one favorite family recipe and $5.00 as part of a special sign-up donation.  Each family will get a team “cookbook”.  We are going to say that at least 80% follow through.  A couple of volunteers could handle this table easily.

So what you have is 160 donations of $5.00 and that gives you $800 income.  You put the collection of recipe into a word processor and set up all of the pages for the cookbook.  These pages with a cover picture now go to your local printer and for $300 he does your Team Cookbooks.  The results is that this fundraiser gives your team a special family value and $500 in the clear.  Consider a good old fashion bake sale as an alternative.

Just as an idea you could raise the same amount by having just 100 Sunset Coupon Books for sale at Sign-up and raise the same amount if only 50% buy a coupon book and you have a lot less work.  It is up to you.

Give us a call and talk over your options.

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Buy Low and Sell High

Successful fundraising involves the careful and continued development of relationships.   These relationships can be with your vendors as well as your clients and customers.

You can improve your fundraising by listening and responding to both sides of your supply chain. 

Many non-profits and fundraising organization have taken a very proactive approach to fundraising and have stopped waiting for donations to arrive.  They have begun using raffles and auctions to help bring in more funds.  Raffles and other variation are certainly not new to fundraising and have been around since the beginning.  If you have ever make cookies and cakes for your church and then they raffled off your baked goods you are part of very focused fundraising rather than waiting for donations to fill the coffers.

Many hospitals have stared to use raffles or funded drawings to raise money for their new machinery or other charitable projects.  Many times a smaller version of these use items that are donated and then sold at nearly 100% profit.

Some organizations have begun to buy their items and sell a set percentage of tickets that are then used in a drawing to “buy low and sell high”.  With the number of non-profits using this technique to raise money must mean it is working.

What can you do for your sports team?  Contact Sunset Coupons 800-627-6340 and find out.

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Customers Say the Nicest Things

Thank you for the coupon books you sold us for our fundraising event. My group of high school students from Desert Springs Bible Church was raising money to help a woman who had recently lost her husband to cancer. We were extremely pleased with how easy it was to sell the Sunset Coupon books and raise the money we did to help this family. 

Bert C. Hunt
Phoenix, Arizona

Luz Academy loved working with this organization! The people at Sunset Coupons supported us every step of the way.

Valerie Johnson
Tucson, Arizona

Our organization would like to thank you for the opportunity to raise money needed to help fund our organization. The coupon books were an easy sell for all of our kids and most sold out of their allotment very quickly. We will schedule a fundraiser with you again. I will also recommend this type of fundraiser to the other softball teams within the organization. Again, from Scorpio Softball, thank you Sunset Coupons.

Ray Garcia

Phoenix, Arizona

Thank you very much for this opportunity to make some money for our cause. I would recommend this opportunity to anyone. 

Ralph Moss

Phoenix, Arizona

Our organization would like to thank Sunset Coupons for allowing us the opportunity to raise money for our softball team. We were very pleased with the choice of coupons in the booklets and highly recommend Sunset Coupons to anyone who is planning and hoping to have a successful fundraiser. 

Renee Duran

Phoenix, Arizona

Call today and see how Sunset Coupons can help you with your next fundraiser. 800-627-6340

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800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

What Is a Nonprofit Organization?

People are often frustrated that this important aspect of everyday life is named by what it is not. Not for profit. Not part of government. Various substitutes have been proposed, but none have come into general usage. Among the proposed replacements perhaps the clearest is "community benefit organization," focusing on the purpose, not on corporate or tax exempt based form.

The Center for Civil Society Studies at Johns Hopkins University has conducted careful research on the scope of "nonprofit" and similarly sponsored activities in many parts of the world. In their studies, "nonprofits" are defined as:

Organizations, that is, institutionalized to some extent;

Private, that is, institutionally separate from government;

Non-profit-distributing, that is, not returning profits generated to their owners or directors;

Self-governing, that is, able to control their own activities; and

Voluntary, that is, non-compulsory and involving some meaningful degree of voluntary participation.

In some parts of the world there are specific laws, regulations and customs that create a policy framework within which identifiable nonprofit organizations operate. Such organizations may be formally recognized by the government; usually, there specific limitations, privileges and exemptions that apply to these recognized groups concerning taxes, political activities, the employment of volunteers, and so forth.

At the same time, it is certainly true that people have joined together in groups to achieve common purposes throughout human history and that frequently they have worked without any external coercion and without the goal of making money. Such activities continue to this day, of course, in places where a fully developed "nonprofit sector" exists, such as the United States or Australia.

Let Sunset Coupons help your "not-for-profit" meet its fundraising goals.

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History of Fundraising

Fundraising has existed for many thousands of years. Beginning in classical Greece and Rome, citizens raised money to build huge amphitheaters, provide feasts for all citizens, and have Olympic-style games. Religious fund raising can be seen in all religions. In Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucianism money was raised to build places of worship and care for the poor. 

In America, fundraising is seen throughout history. During wars, Americans promoted campaigns, events designed to raise a specific amount of money to be used towards an immediate problem. These campaigns raised money for war veterans, for orphans of soldiers, and to provide relief to families without food and shelter. 

Importance

Fundraising provides money to improve the quality of life for many people. It also allows organizations to operate that otherwise would not be able to afford to. Fundraising ensures that not-for-profit organizations will continue to exist in the United States and make it a more diversified and humanitarian place to live.

Fundraisers are one factor that instigate the large amount of annual giving. If people are so generous in their giving, why do we need fundraisers? The reason why fundraisers are necessary stems from the reason why people give. The number one reason people give is because they were asked to give. With adult donors, fundraisers are often those who ask for the gift. Without fundraisers asking people to donate money to worthy causes, many social service, arts, humanities, and educational agencies would not be able to provide their services and support. 

Function  

Asking someone for money seems simple enough. However, fundraising can be complicated. Fundraisers are not simply asking for money. They are asking people to support a mission that the potential donor feels is important. 

Fundraisers must utilize many different methods of fundraising, such as: asking individuals to give, seeking foundation and corporate grants, hosting special events, and applying for government grants. Fundraisers must also be able to assure the donor that his or her money will be spent well and for the cause intended. Good fundraisers work at nonprofit organizations that they truly believe in and make personal contributions to, as well as asking others to do the same. 

How can a fundraiser do all these things? Fundraisers must begin by creating a plan or strategy. They must forecast how much money needs to be raised (based on what they are raising the money for), who they can anticipate will give, and how they will approach people to raise money for their cause. Fundraisers must have a concise plan that shows donors how (on what) the money will be spent. Donors expect fundraisers to be accountable for the money that is raised.

Let Sunset Coupons show you the best way to raise money for your School, Sports Team, Youth Group, Church or Non-profit organization.

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800-627-6340
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Is Fundraising Evil?

Boy that is a scary question to start with… Is  Fundraising Evil or Bad?

Organizations that fund raise should never be concerned with getting the quick buck.

There are so many organizations doing fundraising that even if one of them is doing it badly it tends to give many other fundraisers a black eye. Many people see fundraising campaign ads on TV, get direct mail letters at their homes and workplaces, get asked to buy tickets to events, and to participate in walk-a-thons, and they can become cynical of the whole process.

You are reading this Sunset Coupons Blog because you are thinking about raising money, for a cause that is worthwhile. 

At first people tend to be a little shy about fundraising, because you may be worried that fundraising is somehow unseemly… that people who fund raise need to take advantage of others, or “con” people into giving.  

Nothing should be further from the truth. So, just what is (or should be) the truth about fundraising?

Nearly all organization involved in non-profits, youth programs, churches, schools and youth sports need to do fundraising.

Fundraising enables thousands of organizations, all over the US,  to serve their community.  Fundraising lets homeless shelters stay open, funds cancer research, keeps schools, churches, hospitals and jobs programs afloat, and makes for a better life.

Think about the group you will be fundraising for.  What is their mission?  Why do they exist?  Why do they need the money?  Isn’t their mission worthwhile?  What would happen to the members and those being served if you didn’t have the needed funds?

Non-profits can only exist through fundraising.  Every sale, whether $10 or $20 dollars, keeps your organization working, doing and helping.  

Far from being something unseemly… fundraising for the right organization serves the greater good.

Fundraisers and Fundraising Matters!

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Presidents' Day

Photo by Dean Franklin

Until 1971, both February 12 and February 22 were observed as federal public holidays to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and George Washington (February 22). In 1971 President Richard Nixon proclaimed one single federal public holiday to be observed on the 3rd Monday of February, honoring all past presidents of the United States of America.

The federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February is not officially called Presidents' Day. Instead, it is Washington's Birthday. There was an attempt in 1968 to officially name it Presidents' Day. However, this suggestion died in committee. Many states, however, choose to call their own celebration on this day "Presidents' Day."

Traditionally, many celebrated and continue to celebrate Washington's Birthday with desserts made with cherries. Cherry pie, cherry cake, bread made with cherries, or just a huge bowl of cherries are often enjoyed on this day. Of course, this relates to the legendary story that Washington would not tell a lie when asked if he cut down a cherry tree.

On February 22nd of almost every year since 1888, Washington's Farewell Address has been read in the US Senate. While this does not happen on Presidents' Day, it is an annual celebration of Washington's Birthday that stems from 1862 when the Address was read as a way to boost morale during the Civil War. This address was and is so important because it warns of political factionalism, geographical sectionalism, and interference by foreign powers in the nation's affairs. Washington stressed the importance of national unity over sectional differences.

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The Perfect Fundraiser for Phoenix, Tempe / Mesa, Tucson or Salt Lake

Fundraising is Easy with Sunset Coupon Books

Easily raise money for your School, Sports Team, Youth Group, Church or Non-profit.

Sunset Coupon Books contain hundreds of dollars in savings from local merchants. The savings enjoyed from using just one or two coupons will pay for the book. And who doesn’t need to save money these days?

Sunset Coupon Books are small enough to fit in a pocket or purse yet contain over 40 family-friendly coupons such as 2 for 1 Meals, and Attractions like Bowling, Mini-Golf, Skating, etc; a combined value of over $400 in savings.

Local coupon book editions are available in Phoenix, Tempe / Mesa, Tucson and Salt Lake City.

NO UP FRONT COST

Sunset Coupons will consign books to bonafide established organizations. Call to see how your group can begin raising money with no out of pocket expense.

PERSONALIZED BOOKS

We can imprint your group or school name and/or logo on the cover.

Call Today 1-800-627-6340

Sunset Coupons is a proven moneymaker with over $4 million raised.

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Tips on Promoting a Fundraiser

As anyone who has ever run a fundraiser can tell you, the most important factor in determining the success of a fundraiser, is how well the fundraiser is promoted. Everything else can be executed perfectly, but if the fundraiser in not promoted properly, then the chances of success are slim. Fundraising organizers must use every resource available to them to get the word out to the entire community about the fundraiser. Below are essential tools in successful fundraising promotion.

Kick Off Rally

On the first day of your fundraiser, hold a “kick-off rally” to motivate your participants. This will vary from group to group, but the basic message is “rally your troops”. Make sure they understand what is expected of them and why it’s important to raise funds for your group. It’s important to set as positive tone right from the start and maintain this enthusiasm throughout the entire fundraiser.

Posters

To the best of your ability, plaster posters promoting your fundraiser throughout the school and throughout your community. The more people are reminded of the fundraiser, the more likely they are to support your cause.

Newsletters

 A featured story in your organizations’ newsletter will go a long way. Many newsletters are now sent out online to your groups mass email list. This email list is important to utilize in your fundraiser promotion. This is the quickest and most effective way to get in front of your supporters.

Local Media

Local newspapers, TV, Radio and Blogs are a great resource in promoting your school fundraiser to your surrounding areas. We recently wrote an article on Fundraising Publicity which listed tips on how to promote your fundraiser through the local media. This is a fabulous way to promote you fundraiser on a larger scale.

Social Marketing (Facebook & Twitter)

Today more than ever, social media’s role in fundraiser promotion is extremely important. Daily postings, photos, announcements and anything else important about your fundraiser are great to post on Facebook and Twitter. If your group doesn’t have a Facebook or Twitter account, start one today. It’s free and only takes minutes to set up. And we believe the promotional tools available to fundraising groups through social marketing will only improve, so get your account set up today!

Let Sunset Coupon Books help you reach your goal!

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Common Fundraising Mistakes and Tips to Avoid Them

Sometimes in life things just don’t go the way you planned. This is especially true with fundraisers. The logistics of organizing a fundraiser can be overwhelming to most. Coupled with the fact that most fundraising organizers are volunteers, so they are taking on the fundraising responsibilities on top of their everyday life routine. And most have little prior experience with fundraisers so they are learning on the fly. Below are some common pitfalls that fundraising organizers encounter.

Lack of Planning

Planning for the fundraiser needs to start well in advanced. From selecting the fundraiser, to coordinating the logistics, to lining up volunteers, to executing the fundraiser, the details are numerous. A fundraising check list or outline will help your cause. Make a list of every task that needs to get done and assign volunteers in your group for each task. You must delegate! Do not take on everything by yourself. You will eventually burnout and the fundraiser will suffer. Make a plan and stick with it.

No support from the organization
This occur many times. Well intentioned groups, such as the PTA, will plan a fundraiser, but the school community (principals, teachers, administrators, etc.) doesn’t share the same enthusiasm. For a fundraiser to be successful, you must have the support of your school, especially the principal. Include them from the get go. Get them on board early and develop a plan together. There’s always a bit of politics involved, but you’ll see the results if you get the support from the entire school community.

Poor Communication
 Lack of communication within your group as well as outside your group will always cause issues. You must be on the same page with your group and everyone must be aware of the fundraising game plan. Weekly email updates and an active Facebook page can help your cause. Be vocal at your group meeting and events to make sure everyone is aware of the plan. Also, make sure you are aware of the other fundraisers going on in your community so there are no conflicts.

Little to no promotion
This goes without saying, but you must successfully promote your fundraiser. Some groups think fundraisers will run themselves and the community support will be automatic. That assumption has been the downfall of many fundraisers. This is not the case for most groups. Make sure you get the word out! Parent letters, posters, emails, social networking, and information tables at events and so on.

Let Sunset Coupon Books help you reach your goal!

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Valentine's Day History & Facts

The modern St. Valentine's Day celebrations are said to have been derived from both ancient Christian and Roman tradition.

There are many opinions about the origin of Valentine's Day. Some historians think it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity.

He died on February 14th, circa 270 AD, the same day that was devoted to Juno who was the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses.. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine".

Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him.

In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius turned the Roman holiday Lupercalia into a Christian feast day and set its observance a day earlier, on February 14th. He proclaimed February 14th to be the feast day in honor of Saint Valentine, the Roman martyr who lived in the 3rd century. It is this St. Valentine whom the modern Valentine's Day honors.

Today the celebration of Valentine's Day has become one of sweethearts, chocolate, gifts and celebrations about the love of your life, at least the current one.  Special dinners either out or provided by the spouse or boy friend have also been added to honor your Valentine lover.

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Choosing to Be the Best You Can Be

There is a quote, that can be part of your everyday life.  “Resolve that whatever you do, you will bring your whole person to it; that you will fling the whole weight of your being into it.” Orison Marden

Fundraising is very much a part of that thought process.  Fundraising is hard.  You hear the word “No” a lot.  Or you hear “No” as some other term that is suppose to make you feel better.  But that new term is still, No!

Part of being a good fundraiser is learning to move forward toward your goal, your organization’s goal, with determination.  Put the whole weight of your being into the march toward your goal.

Always remember that No doesn’t really mean No.  The best way to understand “No!” is with the knowledge that it really means “No, not right now.”  Something is preventing that person from wanting to be able to help, right now.  In some cases they want to help but something has happened that makes it a “Can’t”.  They really can’t help you now.  Under different circumstances, or at a different time, that person would be glad to help.  Just not right now.

When you see someone who excels at sports you have to remember that that person has tried and failed many times before, until they learned the right way to accomplish their goal.  There are so many sayings that fit into this thought.  “Practice makes perfect.”  

Moving forward toward your goal with determination.  Trying over and over again until you get it right and reach you goal!

Let Sunset Coupon Books help you reach your goal!

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800-627-6340
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Sunset Coupon Books Your Next Fundraiser

Sunset Coupons can show you how to easily raise money for your Non-profit, Church, School, Sports Team or Youth Group.

Your Customers will find that Sunset Coupon Books have hundreds of dollars in savings from merchants in your area. The savings enjoyed from using just a single coupon can pay for the book. Clients will save every time they use a coupon and who doesn’t need to save money these days?

Sunset Coupon Books are small enough to fit in a pocket or purse yet contain over 40 family-friendly coupons such as 2 for 1 Meals, and Attractions like Bowling, Mini-Golf, Skating, etc; a combined value of over $400 in savings.  Invest $10 dollars and save $400, sounds like a real deal to me.

Local coupon book editions are available in Phoenix, The East Valley, Tucson and Salt Lake City.

NO UP FRONT COST

Sunset Coupons will consign books to bonafide established organizations. Call 1-800-627-6340 to see how your group can begin raising money with no out of pocket expense.

PERSONALIZED BOOKS

We can imprint your group or school name and/or logo on the cover.

Sunset Coupons is a proven moneymaker with over $4 million raised.

Presented By:
Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Selling Gold For Half-Price

What’s that you say?  You are selling Gold for half price!  Well, no, not really.  But, we did get your attention.  When you have a great product, say Sunset Coupon Books, you still need to get the attention of your buyers.

There is a story about a newsboy (selling newspapers on a street corner, yes they really did that in big cities) that had a reputation of selling more than any other of the newsboys.  On one occasion he came back several times to get more papers to sell.  The man in charge of circulation decided to see what was up.

The normal technique was to use the major headline and yell that phrase out to passersby.  Sure enough there was the boy on the corner shouting out the major headline, but nearly every man who was close stopped and bought a paper.

Now the headline was Government Supports Bonds.  As the head of circulation got closer he could hear the young man yelling at the top of his lungs, “Government Supports Blondes!” and yes, nearly every man stopped and bought a newspaper from him.

So can you add some zest or zing to your next location fundraiser?  Think of a clever slogan and shout it out for everyone to hear.  “I can save 50% on your next lunch!”  “There are Free Lunches!” 

There is a good place to start your next fundraiser. 

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800-627-6340
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Why Fundraising Is Selling!

I run across many people that have a very low opinion of Salespeople in general.  With many of the salespeople that reputation is well deserved.  Like all walks of life only about 5% of any group is at the top of their profession.

The result of a bad apple in any bunch is that they taint the whole basket full.  That sure applies to sales folks as well.  Any good salesman will tell you their most effective tools are integrity and honesty.  Those type of sales people rise to the top and standout both as being sought out and have the best sales records in the long term.

If, during your fundraising efforts, you are trying to persuade people to buy something or donate to your cause then you are selling.  Persuasion and selling are the same rose by another name.

Trying to convince a person to your way of thinking is selling.  You are selling an idea, a hope or part of a dream.  You are demonstrating a need and showing that person that they can benefit by helping you fill that need.  It is not their need, but one you make them aware of.  The benefit that they get directly may be as simple as feeling better by helping others.

Make no mistake, a great fundraiser is a great salesperson.  Always do your fundraising using integrity and honesty.  Never over promise and never oversell.

Using Sunset Coupon Books allows you to do your fundraising with honesty and integrity.  A great product sold at the right price and for the right reasons.

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Show Why Sunset Coupons Are Different

The Devil is in the Details.  You have heard that old saying before.  It is a good place to start telling the story of what helps set you apart when you are fundraising.

I know that you are very aware that you aren’t alone out there trying to raise funds for your group.  Today, especially, it seems that every group in the world is competing with you for the “fundraising dollar”.

In our current economy the pinch is being felt by all the non-profit groups.  The pool of available money has shrunk to the smallest size in many years.  You have to fight harder than ever to raise the needed money for your organization.

We all agree that Sunset Coupon Books are a great fundraising tool.  But you still need to make sure you are ready to show the potential buyer just what makes Sunset Coupons special.  Why it will be to their benefit to buy your organization’s Sunset Coupon.  Why it will help you and most especially how it will help them.  Always take the time to stress the benefits to your customer and then how the dollars will then go on to help fund your organization.

First, the small dollar amount of just $10 dollars is a great purchase point.  On TV, many sellers Never go over twenty dollars and more and more today are trying a new price point of $15.00 as a maximum.  So first off you have a perfect starting point.

Second,  the fact that All the coupons in the book are local stores and restaurants in their area.  Nothing wasted by being in a state hundreds of miles away.

Third, the 50% off or Two-For-One specials beat the typical 10 or 20 percent off in your competitions book.

Fourth, the small size and shape of the Sunset Coupon Books makes them ideal to carry in your pocket or purse.  They slip nicely into even the most over crowded glove box.  They travel with you everywhere you go.

You will never need more than those five reasons to show why Sunset Coupons are different.

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Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com

Never Stop Closing

Never Stop Selling as you drive your Fundraiser and your people.  Yes that is a little different from the title and there is a subtle difference between the two.

Never Stop Selling

That is the part where you explain the benefits of your product to someone.  In the case of this fundraiser it is Sunset Coupon Books as the product.  They are a better product.  Be ready to explain why.

They Cost Less, just $10 dollars
They are better because they offer many 50% off, Two for Ones – Not 10-20%
They have all local coupons

That is the selling part – We are Better Because !!!

Closing

What makes closing a different part of selling?  This is the pay-off part of selling.  When you ask for the order.  When you ask the customer to actually buy the product.  Once you sell during your fundraiser you need to take the next step.  You need to ask for the order.

It can be something simple, “Did you want one or two of our Coupon Books?”  This close is a simple question that can not be answered by a simple no.  The closing question is “Do you want to buy one or two of our products.”  Not, do you want to buy?

Trial Closes

Before getting to the end of selling you can do a trial close.  Ask the customer, “We are just $10 Dollars, that is much better that the forty dollar books?” Wait for the answer and when it is. “Yes” you have already got an agreement from your customer.  When you get to the close the customer has already agreed once or twice.  With the close it is much easier to say, Yes, I think I’ll take three!

Presented By:
Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com 

What Our Customers Are saying

Here are some things our customers are saying about us. 

Just wanted to thank Sunset Coupons for this wonderful fundraiser! It’s a great way to make a profit for our school and not lose any school funds in the process! Thanks for all your guidance and for contacting us to begin with!

Chloe Hatfield
Tucson, Arizona

Thank you so much for providing such a fantastic coupon book for us to offer as a fund raiser! The price was right and the Sunset Coupons were perfect for families or just for friends to have. We are a high school, so we found that even students like purchasing them because it made getting out with their friends more affordable. Kudos to you for offering something truly of value! We look forward to many more fund raising opportunities! Keep up the great work!

Joanne Richardson
Sandy, Utah

On behalf of the Southwest Unity Celebration Committee, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to sell the Sunset Coupon Booklets for our fundraiser. The coupon booklets literally sold themselves due to the variety of discounts offered.

Patricia L. White
Phoenix, Arizona

Sunset Coupons Fundraiser was perfect for our organization, Peoria High School Marching Band. The students raised a nice sum of money for band without spending any money. The Booster Club said they would like to do it again.

Janet Gatzen
Glendale, Arizona

Sunset Coupons offered our school, Red Mountain High School, an alternative to the Entertainment Book or restaurant cards – which are a dime a dozen on school campuses. it catered to businesses within our boundaries, and boosted our accounts.

RMHS Student Council
Mesa, Arizona

Call today and see how Sunset Coupons can help you with your next fundraiser. 800-627-6340

Presented By:
Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com 

Building a Good Elevator Pitch for Your Nonprofit

Why?  Because good elevator pitches make money.

What is an elevator pitch? It’s a short speech you give every time someone asks about what you do or where you work.  Here’s the basic scenario. You get on the elevator and someone strikes up a conversation with you and asks where you work? You respond with a few well-rehearsed lines in which you quickly sum up what work you do, why it’s important, and what makes your organization unique. Then you gracefully hand off your business card.

The locations can vary. The pitch can vary as you fine-tune it. But the time limitation needs some respect. Most people go wrong on the time limitation. Keep it very short, around 30 seconds.

First, you must recognize that a question about where you work or what you do is an opportunity. We run into these situations all the time. Whether in line at the grocery store, at your kid’s soccer game, or, on the bus or train, you can quickly find yourself in a conversation with a stranger.

Your new friend may be a potential donor. And, you have about 30 seconds to let her know the nuts and bolts of what you do. This is no time to explain your organization’s vision, mission, and core values statements. The time constraint may be real or self-imposed. You want to keep the pitch short (even if you have more time) so that you don’t risk overwhelming the person with an unsolicited 5-minute infomercial.

If you are not using conversational language in your elevator pitch you are making a mistake. An elevator pitch that uses $10 words like those found in many vision statements will not be very memorable. If you rush the delivery of the words or sound like you are reciting, it will sound like a sales pitch. The trick is to rehearse so often that it doesn’t sound like a sales pitch.  You should sound natural and conversational when you deliver your elevator speech and know it so well that you can even pause momentarily as if you are gathering thoughts mid-sentence.

Always be ready to introduce your fundraiser in any chance meeting. You could even have a few Sunset Coupon books in your pocket for this very type of a meeting.

Presented By:
Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com 

The Power Of Polite

How you approach a person in your fundraising efforts is the real secret to making your sale.  The truth is, people never want to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.  Putting your prospect at ease will get you so much closer than anything else.  

We have mentioned this before but we can not say it enough.  The real first step is a simple and genuine smile.  Next make eye contact, then greet the person by saying “Hello”. 

You always want to be professional and positive at all times.  In your mind think of the person as being a buyer.  You can almost feel the connection being made with your prospect. 

 After the connection is made you have to follow through with the person.  Briefly tell them about your organization and why you are trying to raise money.   

Show them your Sunset Coupon Book and explain the great value.  Show the person several of your favorite coupons and show several you think they might like.  People like the variety of coupon offers and that makes it easy for your customer to see coupons they will use and the high value of each coupon assures that your fundraising customers will receive the purchase price right back in the form of savings.  Unlike other books that only offer 10 to 20% off Sunset Coupons are mainly 50% or two for one specials. 

So don’t be afraid to use the Power Of Polite Persistence and actually ask the person to help your group by making the purchase of the low priced and special value of your Sunset Coupon Book. 

No matter what the outcome of your approach always follow-up with a sincere Thank You and Have a Nice Day.  Don’t be afraid to put that in your own words, but never leave it out.

Presented By:
Sunset Coupons
800-627-6340
http://sunsetcoupons.com