How to Fundraise for Your Senior Living Community

Fundraising is a powerful way to support senior living communities, helping to provide extra resources, programs, and experiences that enhance residents’ quality of life. From music therapy and group outings to updated amenities and activity supplies, the right fundraiser can make a big difference.

Even better? Fundraising doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little creativity, collaboration, and community spirit, your senior living community can raise funds in a way that’s both enjoyable and impactful. Below are several thoughtful and effective ideas to help you get started.

Why Fundraising Matters in Senior Living Communities

Fundraising allows senior living communities to go beyond basic care and offer enriching, person-centered experiences. These extra resources can support wellness programs, special events, transportation for outings, and more. When residents, families, staff, and local supporters come together to raise funds, the results go far beyond dollars raised; it builds connection, pride, and joy throughout the community.

Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or new to planning events, these ideas are designed to be doable, engaging, and rewarding.

Fundraising Ideas to Support Your Senior Living Community

Here are several meaningful ways to raise funds that involve residents, staff, and the greater community:

1. Host a Senior Art Sale

Celebrate the creativity of your residents by displaying and selling their artwork at an art show. Invite families and community members to attend, and consider offering light refreshments and background music to create a gallery-like atmosphere. This not only raises money but also showcases the talents of your residents in a meaningful way.

2. Organize a Storytelling Night

Plan an evening where residents share favorite memories, life lessons, or personal stories. Sell tickets, offer refreshments, and encourage donations. These events are heartwarming and build deep connections between generations while raising funds for community programs.

3. Partner with Labels To Last

Your senior living community can earn ongoing passive income through the Labels To Last Partnership Program. Here’s how it works:

• Your community receives a unique shopping URL from Labels To Last
• Supporters like residents, family members, and staff use that link to shop for high-quality labels
• Your organization earns a 20% commission on all purchases made through your link
  
  

These durable labels are perfect for keeping personal items out of the lost and found—and with every purchase, your community benefits. It’s a win-win for residents and your fundraising goals!

Learn more about our Partnership Program 

4. Run a Vintage Fashion Show

Collaborate with local thrift shops or boutiques to borrow vintage clothing and accessories. Invite residents, staff, or volunteers to model the outfits in a fashion show, and sell tickets or host a silent auction featuring select pieces. It’s a nostalgic, fun-filled event that brings generations together.

5. Hold a Garden Party or Picnic Fundraiser

If your facility has an outdoor space, plan a community garden party or picnic. Sell tickets, invite local musicians or entertainers, and offer simple snacks or boxed lunches. Set up donation tables or host a raffle to raise additional funds while families enjoy the beautiful setting with their loved ones.

6. Create a Community Cookbook

Invite residents and families to contribute their favorite recipes and compile them into a printed or digital cookbook. Include photos, short stories, or quotes to make it extra personal. Sell copies at community events or online to raise money and celebrate the shared history and tastes of your residents.

7. Sponsor a Senior Program

Give families and supporters the opportunity to “sponsor a senior” by donating funds toward a specific goal, like a new wheelchair-accessible van, upgraded activity room supplies, or holiday gifts for residents. Offer updates and thank-you notes to donors to show the impact of their generosity.

8. Host a Workshop Series

Engage local artists, fitness instructors, or hobbyists to lead paid workshops for residents, staff, and family members. Charge a participation fee and consider offering a mix of creative, wellness, and educational topics like painting, chair yoga, or memoir writing.

Keep It Simple, Meaningful, and Fun

Fundraising doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. By choosing activities that align with your community’s strengths and values and involving residents every step of the way, you’ll create opportunities for joy, connection, and support that last long after the event ends.

Final Thoughts: Every Effort Makes a Difference

Your senior living community deserves the resources to provide enriching, joyful experiences for every resident. Whether it’s through an art auction, a storytelling night, or a partnership with Labels To Last, there are so many ways to raise funds while bringing people together. Every dollar raised makes a difference, and every effort shows your residents they are valued and celebrated.