We’ve talked about getting teens involved in fundraising as a summer job or internship when other jobs aren’t available, or if the lesson of raising public funds is of particular interest.

But if fundraising doesn’t appeal in a long term way, there is a one-time opportunity coming up sometime in the next month in most schools that would be good to get your teen involved in. And that means acting now.

Pretty much every school has annual fundraisers around the holidays—auctions, phone-a-thons, dances. The planning is already underway and these committees always need help. Have your teen sign up to volunteer in a substantial way.

Substantial means: Not just volunteering for setup or cleanup, but attending the event and volunteering during it. Or, if the school will allow, your teen should volunteer for actual soliciting of funds, maybe by way of a phone-a-thon, if there is one. In any case, your teen should attend the event.

There are many benefits for your teen. First of all, it’s fascinating to see how as we near the holiday season, people’s spending habits change. You’d think people would be more resistant spending on charity events before they have to spend on expensive holidays. We just saw a clear glimpse of how expensive in the holiday comparison shopping post.

But schools plan these fundraisers now for a reason. People are more generous as the year starts to wind down. Your teen can learn how adults budget for charity events and then for the holidays themselves. Share with them information about any donations you make.

They can also learn that donating time and goods—clothing, food, old toys, their time— can be a great substitute if the family is strapped for cash this holiday season. Being part of a fundraiser can create good charitable habits.

The main thing they’ll learn is just how much goes into planning a fundraiser, and the delicate touch it takes to get people to donate money to a cause. These sales skills are applicable to all endeavors, even your teen’s own financial planning.

Best of all: Being part of a fundraiser looks fantastic on a college application. Very mature and worldly.

And if your teens are slow getting into the school year, now that we’re more than one month in, this will help them engage and become more devoted. Raising awareness about how the school operates, why it raises funds, and how much effort faculty and school staff put into the educational experience will help your teen develop respect for their school.

I’m curious how involved different schools allow teens to be. Please share any stories.

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