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 more parents involved in your PTA or PTO.
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 or PTO members, while offering a glimpse into how volunteer support strengthens the school community.
Not sure what to plan? Try these suggestions:
Skeptical parents often have preconceived ideas of what PTA or PTO jobs entail, but you could 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 (and it doesn't have to be a big commitment, either).
Parents are more likely to volunteer (and stay involved) when they're doing something they enjoy, helping you reach your goals more effectively.
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:
These efforts are helpful to any PTA or PTO, so encourage participants to volunteer for virtual or remote roles.
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 potluck-style by bringing:
If you have the budget, the PTA or PTO should supply most of the food and materials, but asking families to help with small, easy items will make 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 or volunteer.
Read more: PTO and PTA Ideas for Back-to-School Events
Always thank parents who get involved with your PTA or PTO. Reward them for their efforts with a small token of appreciation. Examples include:
These efforts can make your members feel valued and motivate them to stick around for the long haul.
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, no-selling fundraiser like RaiseRight. It's one of the most convenient ways to get any parent involved in your PTA or PTO with minimal commitment.
Once you start a free RaiseRight program, parents simply buy gift cards, shop online, dine at participating restaurants, or book travel to raise money. Plus, you can invite any loved ones to join your fundraiser, even if they're not part of your PTA or PTO.
There's something for everyone on RaiseRight, making participation a no-brainer. RaiseRight partners with hundreds of popular brands, including Target, Starbucks, CVS, and The Home Depot, so you could earn up to 20% back for your PTA or PTO, just by shopping and dining as usual.
Here are some next steps to get the ball rolling: