Why and how we fundraise:

Football is a fairly expensive sport due to the equipment, facilities, and number of participants. Our school-allotted budget (revenue primarily generated via game ticket sales, concessions, and activities fees) typically funds standard items that ensure the safety of our players, essential practice and game equipment, basic transportation costs, and modest stipends for our coaches.

In order for us to compete at a high level and to provide the highest quality experience for our players, we seek additional financial support through fundraising. Our fundraising is primarily managed by the Duluth East Touchdown Club, a 503(C), non-profit organization run by parent volunteers. All funds raised by this organization are distributed to the East football program to address discretionary funding needs (uniforms, technology, bus upgrades, team meals, etc.) as requested by the head football coach and approved by the club board.

Following are opportunities for players, families, alumni, and other community members to support our football program:

1. Join the Touchdown Club - The club generally meets once a month. That is an opportune time to connect with fellow supporters and to have your voice heard regarding fundraising activities. Visit the Touchdown Club webpage and/or reach out to the board for more information.

2. Attend the Quarterback Club - Join the head coach and other staff members at a local establishment every other week during the season to watch game highlights of the previous games and to get a preview of the upcoming opponent. Food and beverages will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds donated to the Touchdown Club. Sorry, players are not invited (they get to listen to the coaches every day at practice).

3. Participate in Fundraising Activities - Prior to and during each season, the Touchdown Club and head coach will coordinate fundraising activities. Players are strongly encouraged to participate to bond with their team and to help raise funds that they benefit from while participating in the program. We also encourage parents to participate and to use their network of connections to decrease the financial burden on the family.

4. Cultivate/Utilize Funding Sources - Many businesses are willing to support interscholastic athletics because they benefit the local community, it can provide a highly-visible sponsorship opportunity, and they often can provide a tax write-off. Plus, some businesses will match the donations of their employees. We encourage you to explore these options through your employer or business. Please direct these opportunities to our Touchdown Club.

5. Advertising Opportunities - The Touchdown Club coordinates advertising opportunities related to the football program. Those opportunities can include ads in the game program, on stadium banners, and special promotions. If your business or employer is interested in these high-visibility options, please reach out to the Touchdown Club.

6. Apparel/Gear Purchases - The Touchdown Club oversees the football program's apparel and gear stores. The stores offer quality products which help promote and support the program's brand. They also offer items used by our players in practices, games, and strength & speed sessions. The Touchdown Club receives a portion of each sale which then supports football program activities and equipment purchases.

7. Cash/In-Kind Donations - Individuals who have the ability to support the football program through cash or in-kind donations can contact the Touchdown Club. Again, due to our non-profit status, these often can be tax-deductible. In-kind donations that help the program are food items, sports drinks, product discounts, and more. If you have access to items/discounts you believe could aid the program, please reach out to the head coach who can best determine the program needs.

8. Volunteer Your Time - Parents can volunteer to fill key roles that support the program. For example, a major source of funding for the program is concessions sales during games. This is a great opportunity to turn your participation into financial support. The Touchdown Club will be in contact with you regarding those opportunities.

We value your participation in our program and your support of your student-athlete and their team. In fact, we view you as a member of our extended Hound Football family. We view you as an ally and appreciate everything you do to help us strive for the success we believe this football program deserves. Go Hounds!