Make Extra Green with a Green Car Wash FUN-raiser

4 steps to make your summer charity event profitable and eco-friendly

Summer is here, and if your cause, club or charity is looking to raise money, one proven warm-weather method is a car wash.  Car washes are popular with the community and fun for volunteers of all ages.  With the right planning, you can host a safe, enjoyable and profitable activity that will not only bring in money, but also thanks from your customers and team spirit for your group.  Plus, a few simple considerations will help keep your car wash safe for the environment as well.

Here are the important things to keep in mind:

1. Organize – Preparation is the difference between a winner and a washout
   • – Find a location with room for lots of cars and access to water
   • – Get your equipment together: hoses, buckets, rags to wash and dry, squeegees, vacuums
   • – Get your teams together: you’ll want volunteers to handle publicity, supplies, refreshments and cleanup. Consider partnering with another group if your head count is low
   • – Set up a Rain Date. Car washes are 100% weather-dependent.

2. Publicize – if nobody knows, nobody shows. Get the word out in advance.
   • – Promote your car wash with colorful posters and flyers
   • – Keep the message simple: What, Where, When, Who and Why (make sure your organization and charitable purpose are prominent)
   • – Use social media. Increase your visibility by sharing with friends on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
   • – Make a press release: leverage free publicity from local television, radio and newspapers

3. Monetize – cleaning cars is just a piece of the action.
   • – Sell tickets in advance. Talk up your cause and don’t be shy about asking for donations.
   • – Up-sell additional services (vacuuming, tire pressure check, neck massage)
   • – Sell refreshments: sodas, water, pizza. Or combine the car wash with a bake sale!
   • – Find sponsors. A pizza parlor, bakery or grocery store can furnish food or supplies In exchange for publicity or simply to help promote a good cause.

4. Climatize – eco-consciousness means saving water and avoiding pollutants
   • – Wash with just water. Most cars are just dusty and need a good rinse.
   • – For cars that need it, use biodegradable soap
   • – Get off the pavement. Wash on grass, gravel or dirt to let the soil act as a natural filter.
   • – Fit your hose with a spray nozzle. Wash more cars with less water.

Most important of all: have FUN and make it fun for your customers.  Help people feel good about giving!