new to JTF, but I've had some experience with fundraising, here's some thoughts:
Distribution of members seems to be a problem. Sure if we had 2,000 people in NYC or LA, that'd be enough to focus energy, do something fun.
Distribution of members? Well, I've seen "Garage Sales/Rummage Sales" do well. A Veteran's org I belong to sets up with a rented 60' container, puts out the word and gets tons of donations. yesh, some we gotta trash, some are good, most are. Then we set up, sometimes on a members property (he's got some acreage with good highway frontage), or we've used local community centers, even Veteran's Halls. Just big signs to advertise, and then sell the stuff. We've raised over $10,000 in a weekend, only takes about 6 to 12 people - more's better - but it works.
So, this won't work because we're all over, but I think eBay has a charity drive feature - maybe it could work - eveyone's got something to sell, a book or two, old bike, skateboard, computer, whatever?
Even staging or holding stuff and then have a weekend telethon type auction, maybe Chaim on youtube? or some kind of "live" set up..... yesh!! maybe eBay's better?
But how many members would place something for auction?
Okay, I posted something re: the old type of JDL bumper stickers. They had the clenched fist within the Magen David, and words "NEVER AGAIN". not the cheap paper bumper stickers, something quality, a plastic or vinyl - maybe with light reflecting inks - I don't know what they'd cost to produce, but I'm thinking more about how many would sell? arithmetic? could they sell for $5 (I'm talking something quality!!) whatever, the aritmetic is simple: if JTF could make let's say a $1 or $2 per, then it's only limited by how many could be sold.
I'd guess the usual gamut of clothing items - T's, Sweat's, Caps. have been talked about.
and for advertising jtf - maybe these might work:
Re: getting word about JTF - call radio talk shows, those with political focus, doesn't matter which way they lean, just mention "JTF.Org" - before they push the 'cut' button. maybe ask the talkshow host if you could mention the web site first....either way, people are curious. Anyone listen to the Michael Savage show - it's syndicated nationally - also avail via internet.
And that's just one - i'm sure there's plenty more.
Letters to the editor? Again, just getting in print helps - amazing how many read the "Letters" section.
Another fund raiser - but it takes lot's of people in a geographic area to make it happen - and it's a lot (I mean a lot of work) but it can generate lots of money:
Create a festival:
fer instance: a Mediterrainian Fest, puposefully not focusing on JTF - you get more bees with honey....
maybe in Central Park, or Battery Park (NYC) - someplace where you can get a permit, and charge admission. Offer food, music, dance from the countries. Charge vendors a fee (plus per-centage) for their booths. Think outside the box, vendors are not just seller of food - think the tourist angle, airlines, hotels, and agents - they'd all be interested. I've been to many Scottish Highland festivals, and Celtic fests. Greek festivals seem to be just about everywhere. We've got St. Patty's day and Columbus day. So, a Med' Festival is just an extention. Yeah, this is labor intensive - but good thing - it makes money. Takes organization.
okay, all this brainstormin' given me a headache.