What are some good fundraising ideas for winter?

I need good fundraising ideas for foreign exchange programs..?

• I really want to foreign exchange the winter of 2008. I am applying for a full tuiton scholarship which would be a net total of 12,000. They only give them to 15 students in the USA though. I need to start fundraising and earning spending money in case I don't get selected. Can you please provide thourogh and good ideas, preferably ones that have worked for you in the past?? Oh, one more question, I am unsure where I should go...Egypt, The UK, or Finland? Any ideas and suggestions for both questions would be greatly appreciated!

• Answer:

  Good luck to you! An exchange year is a wonderful thing (I know, I've hosted 11!). You are right, they are terribly expensive! One fund raising method used is to write letters to various civic groups. In return for them helping you go, you pledge to write the group X number of times over the year, then do a presentation when you return. It's especially useful to contact international groups such as Lions Club, study groups, etc. Don't forget groups like your church, alumni association from your school and rich people! As to what country -- I don't recommend the UK because of language. One of the greatest things from an exchange year is the immersion into a foreign language -- and it's one of the things that will profit you the most in the long run. As to your other choices. Well, I've hosted a Finnish kid, loved him and in fact am visiting him this summer. However, there is a very limited need for Finnish. If your parents are willing to send you to Egypt, that would be my choice!