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Guide

How to run a euchre fundraiser

A euchre tournament is a simple way to raise money: the entry fees do most of the work, and people who love the game will show up for a good cause. Here's how to plan one for a charity, school, team or family in need.

Decide how the money splits

Settle this first, because it sets the entry fee. People want to know how much of their money reaches the cause, so print the split on the flyer and announce it at the door.

Here's an example with 40 players at $25 each, which brings in $1,000:

Where it goes	Amount
To the cause	$500
Prizes	$400
Hall, food and supplies	$100

Those numbers are only an example. Some events give everything to the cause and play for donated prizes instead. If a business will donate the room or the food, more of each entry goes to the cause.

Raise more beyond the entries

• A euchre jar. Anyone who gets euchred puts money in the jar, and the jar goes to the cause. It's a small amount each time, and it gets people laughing.
• Raffles and door prizes. Ask local businesses for gift cards and baskets.
• Food and drink. Sell it at the event, or get a local restaurant to give back a share.
• Sponsors. A local business can sponsor a table or the whole event in return for a mention.

Rules on raffles and paid card games vary by state, and some need a license. Check yours before you advertise, and ask the charity whether it has one already.

Fill the room

• Set the date early, and avoid your area's big games and holidays.
• Post it in local euchre Facebook groups, and ask the charity to share it with its supporters.
• Put it on the euchre tournament calendar. Posting is free, and you don't need to use Euchre Clubhouse.
• Take sign-ups in advance so you know how many tables to set up. Keep room for walk-ins.
• Tell people whether they need a partner. In a progressive tournament they don't, so anyone can come alone.

Run the day

A fundraiser runs like any other tournament, so our tournament guide covers the details. A progressive format works best because players don't need a partner and meet a new one each round. Many guests may be casual players, so keep the rules simple and post them.

Print a rotation chart and score sheets before the day. Give someone from the cause a minute at the microphone to say what the money will do, and announce the total before people leave.

Keep the books

Write down what came in and where it went, and have two people count the cash. The charity will want a clear total, and a 501(c)(3) needs records for its own books. Ask the charity's treasurer what they need before the event.