How to Get Parents Involved in Your PTA or PTO: 6 Effective Solutions

Every thriving PTA or PTO needs engaged families. Whether you’re reaching those new to your school or re-energizing engagement with long-time supporters, you’ll want to know these practical tips to get parents involved in your PTA or PTO. 

Host family-friendly events

To increase PTA or PTO parent involvement, consider hosting family-friendly events after hours. You'll give parents and kids a good reason to show up, and parents won't have to worry about childcare. 

Family nights are a great opportunity to connect students and parents with teachers and other PTA/PTO members, while offering a glimpse into how volunteer support strengthens the school community. 

Not sure what to plan? Try these suggestions:

• Technology safety talks
• Reading night
• Science after hours
• Family movie nights
• Talent shows
• Family sing-a-longs 

Survey parents on what interests them

Skeptical parents often have preconceived ideas of what PTA or PTO jobs entail. Why don’t you challenge that by asking what they want to do?

A simple way to get more PTA or PTO help is to survey parents about their strengths and interests, then match them with appropriate roles or tasks. 

Parents are more likely to volunteer (and stay involved) when they’re doing something they enjoy, helping you reach your goals more effectively.

Create virtual volunteer roles

Getting involved in your PTA or PTO doesn't have to mean showing up in person. Remind parents that they can support your PTA or PTO remotely. 

Working parents may find it easier to complete at-home tasks they can do on their own time, such as: 

• Making goodie bags
• Writing or editing the newsletter
• Creating decorations or signage for upcoming events
• Sorting Box Tops or other donations
• Updating the website or social media page(s)
• Sorting fundraiser information

These efforts are helpful to any PTA or PTO, so encourage participants to volunteer for virtual or remote roles. 

Plan a back-to-school welcome picnic 

Start the school year strong with a classic back-to-school picnic—an easy, low-pressure way to foster connections and get more parents involved in your PTA or PTO. Parents can bring their children and meet other families, classmates, and other members.

You can also ask families to participate in the potluck by bringing:

• Side dishes or desserts
• Cups
• Cutlery
• Plates
• Napkins

If you have the budget, the PTA or PTO should supply most of the materials, but asking families to help with smaller items makes it easier for them to participate. 

For events that include classes from multiple grades, designate specific areas for each level to meet so they can get to know each other. Remember to include a PTO/PTA table with more information about how parents can join. 

Read more: PTO and PTA Ideas for Back-to-School Events

Offer incentives

Always thank parents who get involved with your PTA or PTO. Reward them for their efforts with a small token of appreciation. Examples include:

• Free lunch
• Comped event tickets
• Free resources
• T-shirt or tote with the school or PTA/PTO logo
• Gift cards

These efforts can make your members feel valued and motivate them to stick around for the long haul.

Try passive fundraisers like RaiseRight 

Fundraising is a reality for most PTAs and PTOs. However, traditional fundraisers often leave parents feeling overwhelmed or burned out. 

Instead of asking parents to sell products, consider a low-effort fundraiser like RaiseRight. Families can raise money by shopping or dining at their favorite places—no selling required. It's one of the most convenient ways to get parents involved in your PTA or PTO. 

Once you enroll your PTA or PTO in a free RaiseRight program, parents can fundraise by purchasing gift cards for everyday spend and gifting, shopping online at their favorite stores, or dining at local restaurants.

Any family, friend, or loved one can join your RaiseRight program—even if they’re not part of your organization.

RaiseRight partners with hundreds of popular brands, including Target, Starbucks, CVS, and The Home Depot. Brands offer up to 20% back per purchase, making it easy and effortless for your supporters to earn for your school.