Resident Event - Drives (School, Toys, & Diapers)

Tips & Tricks for Hosting a Successful Community Donation Drive Event

Set Clear Goals:

• Define the purpose: Are you collecting for a local shelter, school, or nonprofit?
• Pick your items: Focus on essentials like diapers, school supplies, or toys.
• Prioritize what's most needed by your chosen organization.
• Set a target: For example, "Collect 500 school supplies by August 1st."

Choose the Right Time & Location:

• Timing matters:
  • Back-to-school season for supplies
  • Pre-holiday for toy drives
  • Spring/Summer for diaper needs
• Location:
  • Property: Use the leasing office, clubhouse, or a high-traffic common area.
  • Supplier HQ: Use the lobby, breakroom, or warehouse entrance—somewhere employees and guests pass daily.

Promote Like a Pro:

• Flyers & Posters in elevators, lobbies, and mail areas
• Email blasts to residents, team members, and partners
• Social media posts with updates and photos
• Use incentives: Offer raffle entries, snacks, or small giveaways to participants

Make Donating Easy:

• Drop-off bins: Clearly marked and easy to access
• Pre-set kits: Hand out school supply or diaper bag “starter lists” residents can fill
• Digital options: Create an Amazon Wishlist or Venmo option for virtual donors

Make It Fun:

• Host a Mini Event:
  • Craft or coloring corner for kids
  • Free coffee/donut morning for residents
  • Ice cream social where a donation is the “ticket”
• Themed drives: "Stuff the Backpack," "Stock the Nursery," or "Toy Tower Challenge"

Partner Up:

• Local businesses or suppliers: Ask for item donations or sponsorship
• Charities: Collaborate with nonprofits who can provide bins, pick-up, and promotional materials

Track & Celebrate:

• Track donations: Post updates on totals to encourage more giving
• Thank your community: With a resident newsletter, social post, or thank-you signs
• Share results: "Together we donated 1,000 crayons and 50 backpacks!"

Check out the MWV School Supply drive happening now through July 30th!

About the Author:
Jeff Keller is the Chair of the Multifamily Northwest Salem Service Committee and a dedicated team member at Avenue5. He's excited for the second half of 2025, with some exciting plans in the works to support and engage the local multifamily community.