OK – so you can’t find any scholarships that you’re eligible for, or your trip isn’t long enough to qualify.. Don’t Give up Yet! There are plenty of easy ways to raise money for your trip, your experience of a lifetime.

First and foremost – ask family and friends. Network. ChipIn (http://www.chipin.com) is a website that allows you create your own personal page with a set financial goal and has a donation link built into the page. The funds are then sent to you via Check or Paypal. For an example or to donate to my trip, check out http://rduemmling.chipin.com

Car washes – If you’ve got a group of people that are trying to go, it is easier to organize an event such as this. Many businesses will allow you to set up in their parking lot, as it brings in potential customers. Depending on your group size, prices paid, and amount of cars washed, you can raise quite a bit of money this way.

Working with local businesses – Find a way to get a business to support your trip. Perhaps you can invite a large group to a restaurant, and see if they are willing to donate a portion of the proceeds to your cause.

For a complete list of fundraising ideas, check out sites such as http://www.fund-raising-ideas-center.com/fundraising-ideas.html