Q1: Where does my money go when I buy something from a music student? A1: For each item you purchase from a music student, a percentage of that money goes into that individual student's fundraising account. This percentage is determined by the company providing the products for sale and can range from 25% to 50% of the price that the customer pays. For example, if you purchase an item that has a 50% return profit for the student and the item is $12.00 total, $6.00 will go to the company that provided the item, and $6.00 will go into that music student's fundraising account. Sometimes, the department will also receive a small percentage of the profit. (see answer 5)
Q2: Are students required to participate in fundraising opportunities? A1: Participation in individual fundraising is strictly voluntary.
Q3: Why would a student want to take part in fundraising? A3: Many students wish to participate in music department travel opportunities but with each of these events, there are fees. Students can offset these fees and even cover their entire trip payments with fundraising through the music department fundraising opportunities. The amount that each student raises will vary.
Q4: Can we just pay for travel without fundraising? A4: Yes. If your household does not want to take part in the individual fundraising initiatives but the student wishes to travel with the music department, cheque, cash, or credit card will be accepted for trip fee payments.
Q5: Does the Music Department receive any of these funds? A5: Yes, there are some fundraising events that helps the Music Department generates funds to support our operations and supplement the music department travel budget. Some examples are Paint Nites, 50/50 draws, Raffles, Concert Admission Donations, Bake Sales, and portions of Bottle Drives and Pizza Lunch Sales.
Q6:What does the Music Department do with the money it raises? A7: The money that is raised for the Music Department is sometimes allocated for a specific item to purchase (equipment/instruments), but usually this money will go towards festival entry fees and transportation costs in order to lower student travel fees. Additionally, these funds are used to support student travel when required.
Q8: How will we receive notice about upcoming fundraising opportunities? A8: There are three (4) ways to receive information about upcoming fundraising opportunities. 1) Student's receive information in class and are able to take home the appropriate forms and info sheets at that time, 2) Email notices sent home via MyEdBC class list-serv. 3) Music Newsletters 4) This website!
Q9: I have an idea for a fundraiser/would like to help with a current fundraiser - who do I talk to about that? A9: Ideas are always welcome. Please bring them to the VMPA and/or Ms. Livingstone.
Q10: How do I know how much money is in my account? A10: See or Email Ms. Livingstone and she will check the g i a n t spreadsheet with all the details. Once a fundraiser is over, please allow time for the numbers to be updated. (approximately 1-2 weeks)