Police Department Fundraising Ideas

When’s the last time you were asked to buy a ticket to the Policemen’s Ball? It’s an old cliché and one that is decidedly out-of-date. Today, the police still have a need for fundraising, but they typically employ more creative solutions. Many times the police are fundraising for a fallen comrade’s medical bills or to take care of his/her family, other times they may be trying to buy new radar guns or bullet-proof vests or start a canine program… the reason for the fundraiser often dictates the tone of the event.

One of the biggest decisions is often deciding what type of fundraiser to do. In California, Palm Springs police took on residents in black jack and poker as a fundraiser for fallen officers. Gamblers were given $500 in play casino money and were entered in to drawings for prizes.  In Virginia, the James City County Police Department held its annual Project Lifesaver Car Show fundraiser, open to all vehicles and all years, antique to new. Fundraisers by other Police Departments include torch runs, polar bear plunges, product sales, chili cook-offs, raffles, concerts, restaurant nights, yard sales, labor auctions and Guns & Hoses challenge events.

Check out our complete list of fundraising products and do-it-yourself fundraising ideas for your next police department fundraiser.

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Do-It-Yourself Police Department Fundraiser

You can also choose from a wide variety of Police DIY fundraising ideas to supplement your program. How about a Crock Pot Cook-off, Cuffing Contest, Burger/Pizza Night, No Talent Contest, or thons of every type? Perhaps one of these successful and creative ideas can be adapted for your department’s fundraiser.

Night in Jail – Volunteers in Adams County, Pennsylvania, paid $40 for an all-inclusive stay in a new, state-of-the-art prison. Children between 12 and 18 years of age stayed for half-price, but each had to have an adult with them. Spouses could share a cell. The event was a fundraiser for the Adams County Homeless Shelter, but it was also a training exercise for the prison staff. Read more…

Doughnut Eating Contest – In Rockland, Maine, seven police officers and one first responder walked into a Tim Hortons doughnut shop for a fundraiser — and kicked powdered sugar in the face of one of the country’s most enduring stereotypes. Read more…

Womanless Beauty Pageant – Our street hockey league is having its annual Spaghetti Dinner and Womanless Beauty Pageant Fundraiser. All you need is some brave men to dress up as their version of a woman and then have a pageant with them. Contestants wear makeup, evening gowns and even have a talent competition. Read more…