The Hidden Costs Behind Free Fundraising Tools for Booster Clubs

Many fundraising platforms advertise themselves as "free," but are they truly cost-free?  In this episode of Booster Volunteer Podcast, hosts Evan and Robin Eissler uncover the hidden costs behind these so-called free fundraising tools. They explore the structural differences between simple donation websites and peer-to-peer fundraising systems, highlighting common pitfalls such as high transaction fees, hidden tips, data-sharing concerns, and embedded advertisements. Evan and Robin provide a practical guide to evaluating and choosing between free, legacy, and modern low-cost fundraising tools. They emphasize the importance of understanding transaction fees, promotional capabilities, and data privacy, ensuring a true apples-to-apples comparison of costs and benefits. Despite the appeal of free platforms, they reveal how these tools often impose higher costs through optional tips and limited visibility, ultimately impacting user engagement and fundraising success. Additionally, they discuss the evolution of fundraising technology and the benefits of involving students in data collection to enhance engagement and results. Robin underscores the need for booster clubs to select tools that actively contribute to their fundraising efforts rather than simply appearing cost-effective on the surface. Tune in to learn how to navigate the fundraising landscape and select the right platform for your needs!   Key Takeaways: 1:04 - Understanding "Free" Fundraising Tools 1:19 - The Difference Between Donation Pages & Peer-to-Peer Fundraising 2:15 - The Truth About Tips & Checkout Fees 3:29 - Data Privacy Risks & Sharing Policies 5:18 - Advertising on Free Platforms  6:09 - Limitations of Free Fundraising Websites    Robin Eissler Links: Website: https://www.boosterhub.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-eissler-31bb7a36