Roses & Racks: A Perfect Pairing for Deer Season Thanks!
Rotary Rose Sale: A Fundraiser Your Club Can’t Afford to Miss – Especially During Deer Season!
As the crisp fall air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, there's one thing on every hunter's mind: Deer Season. It's that time of year when the thrill of the chase takes over, and hunters everywhere are eager to get out into the woods. But let’s be honest—while the hunters are in their element, it’s their partners who hold down the fort. And what better way for hunters to say "thank you" than with a beautiful bouquet of roses? That’s where the Rotary Rose Sale comes in, a fundraiser that not only brings joy to the community but also supports Rotary’s mission to give back.
Why a Rose Sale?
The Rotary Rose Sale is a time-tested fundraiser that has proven successful for clubs like the Hayward Area Rotary Club, and it’s an event that your club could easily replicate. Imagine this: As Deer Season approaches, hunters in your community are looking for the perfect way to express their gratitude to their loved ones for their understanding and support. A dozen roses, purchased through your Rotary Club, can be the perfect gesture—a way to say, “Thank you for letting me do what I love.”
How Does It Work?
Here’s the beauty of the Rotary Rose Sale: it’s straightforward and community-focused. Each fall, the Hayward Area Rotary Club partners with a local florist to order dozens of fresh roses. Club members pre-sell the roses within the community, ensuring they know exactly how many to order. The roses are then picked up and distributed at the florist’s shop, with club members assisting customers and even allowing them to choose their favorite colors.
The sale is typically held towards the end of October, which aligns perfectly with the start of Deer Season. The timing couldn’t be better—hunters can buy a dozen roses as a preemptive thank-you to their partners, ensuring they stay in good graces as they head off into the woods.
What’s in It for Your Club?
Aside from the obvious benefit of raising funds for your club’s charitable efforts, the Rotary Rose Sale offers a great opportunity to engage with your community. It’s a chance to connect with repeat customers who look forward to the sale every year, and it allows your club members to get involved in a hands-on, rewarding activity.
The Hayward Area Rotary Club has found this fundraiser to be relatively low-cost, with most expenses covered by the modest $20 per dozen roses. The profits, which often reach around $5,000, go directly into funding scholarships and other community initiatives. Plus, with the added humor and appeal of being tied to Deer Season, it’s a fundraiser that resonates with both hunters and their partners alike.
A Few Tips for Success
- Pre-Sale Tickets: Pre-selling the roses helps ensure that you order the right amount. Distribute tickets to club members, and encourage them to collect payment upfront to guarantee commitment.
- Strong Local Partnerships: Work closely with a local florist who can help you with ordering, storing, and distributing the roses.
- Leverage the Season: Play up the Deer Season angle in your promotions. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to market the event and tap into the local culture.
Final Thoughts
The Rotary Rose Sale is more than just a fundraiser—it’s an opportunity for your club to connect with the community in a meaningful way. And with the added twist of Deer Season, it’s a fun and timely way to offer something special to your neighbors. So why not give it a try? Your community will love it, and your club will reap the benefits of a well-executed, heartwarming event.
Let’s make this Deer Season one to remember—with a little help from Rotary and a beautiful bouquet of roses!