August Editor's Letter

Raise your hand if you’ve been asked to buy something to help support your local school or sports team. Now raise your hand if you’ve had to assist your child in selling products to benefit the school or team. If you are sitting with a magazine in your lap and both hands above your head, you are not alone!

From the time kids start school, fundraisers become a part of life. I fully understand the need for fundraisers and know that they are necessary for a school to operate and thrive. But when is enough enough? I know I am not alone in my dislike for fundraisers, and I think schools are beginning to get the message. Last year at my daughters’ elementary school, we were able to get rid of selling wrapping paper and replace it with a walk-a-thon. What I liked most about the event was that 100 percent of the funds went directly to the school (and I didn’t end up with a lot of stuff that I don’t really need but just bought to help out the girls). As we begin a new school year, it may be time for your school to rethink fundraisers. Sara Keenan has some terrific tips for ways to eliminate selling yet still raise monies for school in her article “Fed Up With Fundraisers?”

In addition to fundraisers’ taking a bite out of your wallet, back-to-school shopping can quickly add up to being expensive. From school supplies to clothes, the list of “to buy” is often lengthy! To help keep some cash in your wallet this year, we’ve put together some fun fall fashion trends for every budget.

Happy back to school, KC! I hope your year gets off to a fantastic start!