How Do I Get People to Join a Booster Club?

Why People Aren’t Joining Your Booster Club

Most booster clubs struggle to attract new members not because parents don’t care, but because they don’t see the value — or worse, they think it’s a boring obligation. According to a National PTA study, only about 15% of parents are actively involved in school fundraising, despite 83% saying they want to support their child’s education. The disconnect lies in how the club is perceived and presented. If your club feels like a never-ending to-do list with thankless work, it’s time for a brand refresh.

How to Get More People to Join Your Booster Club

To grow your club, you have to shift the narrative. Don’t just ask for help — invite parents into a vibrant, meaningful, and even fun experience. Here’s how to make your booster club the coolest gig in town, all while increasing involvement, donations, and school pride.

1. Communicate the Value of Your Club

Parents are more likely to step up when they understand how their time and money create tangible benefits. Frame your messaging around impact — not obligation. Highlight how booster club funds bought new uniforms, improved facilities, covered competition travel, or paid for scholarships. Share testimonials from coaches, teachers, and especially students. Paint a picture of the difference made when parents get involved.

Use your website and newsletters to regularly spotlight these success stories. A parent who sees their efforts creating real change is more likely to stick around — and bring a friend.

2. Make It the Coolest Club on Campus

Let’s face it — no one wants to join something that feels dull or cliquey. If you want to increase participation, make the booster club the place to be. Think swag, socials, shout-outs, and spotlight moments. Have a strong, visible presence at games and events. Create a brand around your club that exudes positivity, pride, inclusivity, and a little bit of flair.

Parents are more likely to join when the culture feels fun, connected, and fulfilling. Host themed meetings, celebrate wins big and small, and regularly show appreciation. Make the club not just a booster for students — but a booster for the parents, too.

3. Offer Levels of Involvement That Fit Every Schedule

One major barrier to joining is the fear of overcommitment. Bust that myth upfront by offering multiple tiers of participation:

• volunteers for single events or setup help
• Flexible coordinators who take on projects seasonally
• Board members for parents who want to dive in deep

Let parents choose their own adventure. When people know they can make a difference without giving up all their free time, they’re far more likely to get involved.

4. Host Events That Are Actually Fun

If your events feel more like chores than celebrations, it’s time to rethink your programming. Fun is not a luxury — it’s a magnet for new members. Try events like:

• Booster Club Happy Hour or Tailgate
• VIP seating raffles at games
• Parent-Student game night
• Spiritwear fashion show or pop-up booth

Every event is a chance to build buzz and recruit. Make sure your current members are visible, friendly, and enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is contagious — especially when paired with free snacks.

5. Use Social Proof and Student Voices

Never underestimate the power of a student’s voice. When kids share how the booster club helped them get to nationals or funded their team’s trip, parents listen. Feature these stories in your emails, videos, and social posts. Parents want to support their kids, and nothing makes them act faster than hearing how their involvement can directly benefit them.

6. Leverage Email and Social Media (the Right Way)

Over 70% of U.S. adults use social media daily, and 90% of Americans check their email at least once a day. If your club isn’t active online, you’re missing the biggest communication opportunity available.

Create an editorial calendar with engaging posts and consistent emails. Highlight upcoming events, behind-the-scenes photos, and parent testimonials. Use BoosterSpark to automate this outreach and keep your club top-of-mind year-round. It’s not just about broadcasting — it’s about creating a community.

7. Simplify the Sign-Up Process

Too many clubs still rely on clunky paper forms or outdated systems. Make joining frictionless. Provide online sign-ups, mobile payments, and instant confirmation. BoosterSpark offers an easy-to-use platform that lets parents join in minutes, not hours.

Incentivize sign-ups with early-bird perks like spiritwear discounts, raffle entries, or shout-outs at school events. A little nudge goes a long way.

8. Build a Culture of Recognition

People love to be seen and appreciated. Make it part of your club’s DNA to publicly thank members, volunteers, and sponsors. Celebrate wins at meetings, in emails, and on social media. Recognition reinforces engagement and encourages others to step forward.

9. Think Bigger Than Fundraising

Yes, fundraising is important — but it’s not your only value. Booster clubs build community, enhance school spirit, and support emotional well-being. Make sure your messaging reflects this broader mission. When you align your club with values like connection, impact, and fun, you’ll attract parents who want to be part of something bigger than a bake sale.

10. Use Tools That Save Time and Energy

Let’s be real — running a booster club can be a heavy lift. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right systems in place, your club can grow without burning out your board. BoosterSpark was built for exactly this. From easy communication and membership tracking to fundraising and your website, it’s your secret weapon for building a thriving, modern booster club.