Looking for creative donation drive fundraiser ideas that actually work? Whether you’re fundraising for a school, sports team, church, or nonprofit organization, these 15 donation drive fundraisers are proven ways to engage your community and raise meaningful funds.
From school donation drives to community-wide fundraisers, the key to success is simple: make giving easy, exciting, and impactful. Below, you’ll find donation drive ideas that are flexible, low-cost, and perfect for groups of all sizes.
A clothing donation drive is one of the most popular and impactful fundraising ideas for schools and nonprofits. Ask supporters to donate gently used clothing and partner with local shelters or resale organizations.
Pro Tip: Run seasonal drives—like a winter coat drive or back-to-school clothing drive—to increase urgency and participation.
Shoe drives are easy to organize and incredibly effective. Participants drop off gently used shoes, helping both your fundraiser and the environment.
Many organizations—including Salvation Army—accept shoe donations, allowing donors to support multiple causes at once. That “double impact” message is a huge motivator.
Food donation drives are a community favorite, especially during the holidays—but they work year-round. Collect canned goods and non-perishable items for local food banks.
Make it fun: Turn it into a classroom or team competition with prizes for the most items collected.
Book drives are ideal for schools, libraries, and literacy programs. Collect gently used books and host a community book sale to raise funds.
Engagement boost: Invite local authors or host student reading events alongside the sale.
Toy drives are especially popular during the holiday season. Collect new or gently used toys and partner with organizations like Toys for Tots or local shelters.
Offering a small thank-you or hosting a holiday event can significantly increase donations.
School supply donation drives help students while supporting your fundraising goals. Collect items like notebooks, backpacks, pencils, and crayons.
Fundraising tip: Host a back-to-school kickoff event with music, snacks, and games to encourage participation.
Baby essentials—diapers, wipes, formula, and baby clothes—are always in demand. This donation drive works well with shelters, foster care programs, and family-focused nonprofits.
Local businesses are often eager to help sponsor or promote these drives.
Pet supply drives are a hit with animal lovers. Collect pet food, toys, bedding, and cleaning supplies for local shelters.
Fun idea: Host an adoption event or pet-themed day to draw in even more support.
Personal care donation drives support individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship. Collect hygiene essentials like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and deodorant.
Set up drop-off bins at schools, churches, and local businesses for maximum reach.
Technology is essential for education. Collect old smartphones, tablets, and laptops to be refurbished or recycled.
Many recycling programs offer payouts, turning unused electronics into real fundraising dollars.
Holiday gift basket drives are perfect for seasonal fundraising. Ask donors to contribute themed baskets—like movie night, spa day, or family fun—and raffle them off.
These fundraisers feel festive and personal, which boosts engagement.
A recycling drive fundraiser helps your cause and the environment. Collect cans, bottles, or electronics and partner with a recycling company for payouts.
Bonus: Run friendly competitions to encourage higher collection totals.
Collect gently used sports equipment—balls, cleats, rackets, and gear—for youth leagues or school programs.
Hosting a community game day where donated equipment acts as the “entry fee” is a great way to combine fun and fundraising.
Support creativity by collecting art supplies like paints, sketchbooks, and brushes. Art programs are often underfunded, making this drive especially meaningful.
Extra impact: Host an art show fundraiser featuring student work.
A fundraising garage sale is a classic donation drive idea that still works. Collect household items and host a community sale.
Promote it through social media, school newsletters, and local groups to maximize turnout and profits.
These 15 donation drive fundraiser ideas prove that fundraising doesn’t have to be complicated to be successful. With the right planning, promotion, and community engagement, donation drives can raise funds, build awareness, and strengthen connections.
Need help organizing your next donation drive fundraiser? Midland Fundraising makes it easy with tools, guidance, and proven fundraising solutions designed for schools, teams, and nonprofits.
Ready to get started? Contact Midland Fundraising today and turn your next donation drive into a big win.
© Midland Fundraising 2026. All rights reserved.