Homeschool fundraiser

The idea came to me just after a neighbor came by with a fundraiser catalog for the neighborhood school. I was happy to support their school and also pick out some peppermint bark and gourmet popcorn for our family to enjoy. But why not do our own 'school' fundraiser? The boys have been begging for Mindstorm Lego's for over a year so an opportunity for them to raise some money is just what they need to get their wish.

Paul was quite amused and somewhat impressed as he over heard us discussing possible business plans. Jokingly he asked me if that's what we learned about at our Wharton kids club several years ago. But I answered other than a bake sale it was just outings and holiday parties there. I reminded him of the entrepreneur course I took over 10 years ago but then argued that my real business knowledge comes not from a class but from all my great consumer experience. We offered him a position as a consultant and it was decided that our best product was homemade bagels.  It was also worked out that our consultant would receive payment in bagels.

So begins our integrated home school project. It has been so much fun I don't know why we haven't attempted this before.  Here's what everyone is learning:

Business and Marketing - how to write and execute a business plan

Math- accounting, and how to weigh flour and measure water

Computer- how to use Adobe to design a flyer

Social Skills- how to approach neighbors and take orders 

Cooking Skills- how to make the bagels

Physical Skills- riding bikes to deliver the bagels

Community Awareness- donating a portion of the proceeds to the local food bank

We've received 4 orders for tomorrow morning but have capacity for 4 more.  We are hoping to not only raise up enough money for Mindstorms but also use up a portion of the 150 lbs of bread flour in our food storage befor we move.