DANNI Warner says Wangara-based business Fun-raising Gifts emerged from concern about childhood obesity rates at schools that primarily sell chocolates and confectionary to raise funds.
After recognising child obesity had become an increasingly prevalent social issue with about a quarter of school children affected, the team behind Fun-raising Gifts saw a gap in the market for health-conscious fundraising merchandise.
Miss Warner said the family-owned business decided to do something to address the issue by offering alternatives such as pens, key rings and sensory items.
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READ NOW“I was involved in a lot of fundraising activities in my school years and most of them involved selling chocolates to raise money for whatever project we had undertaken,” the marketing manager said.
“We sold chocolates because it was easy and convenient as just about everyone loves chocolate – it was really frustrating that it wasn’t easy to source viable alternatives to junk food.
“It was really challenging trying to find alternative products that still had heaps of appeal but didn’t add inches to your waistline – or give you diabetes.”
Miss Warner discussed the idea with her family, who already ran a wholesale business supplying retailers around Australia.
“Our family business has been selling products like pens and key rings for years and they have proven appeal for people of all ages,” she said.
“Everybody uses pens and key ring and I thought these types of products would be a perfect alternative to chocolates and confectionery.
“It was important that our products themes were bright, colourful and heaps of fun – we have been fortunate that we were able to source such a diverse range of great products to launch our new venture.”
Miss Warner said they set wholesale prices so fundraisers could sell the products at or below retail prices, ensuring consumers got value for money as well as supporting a good cause.
For more information, visit www.fun-raising.com.au or email danni@fun-raising.com.au .