Blog
Top Custom Apparel for Fall Fundraisers, School Events & Community Days
The fall season is a busy one for schools, nonprofits, and other organizations. Community events (like fun runs, spirit days, and carnivals) bring people together, and custom apparel can make them an even greater success. Branded gear encourages a sense of unity and participation, boosts visibility, and serves as a stream of revenue.
If you're fundraising or promoting an event this fall, take a look at the top custom apparel items to consider to increase sales. Offering an array of practical items ensures you’ll appeal to a broader audience.
Custom T-Shirts
Custom t-shirts are a classic apparel option. Not only are they affordable and easy to distribute, but they're a universal clothing item. Whether you're planning a school fundraiser, a nonprofit awareness event, or seasonal festivities, you can hardly go wrong with a well-designed t-shirt.
Why they work:
- Great for team building and school pride
- Perfect for giveaways or sales
- Easy to order in various sizes and colors
Screen-printed t-shirts are a great option for bold, long-lasting designs that don't fade away after a few washes. They also allow for creative design choices like hand-drawn student art, sponsor shout-outs, or custom slogans.
Custom Drawstring Backpacks
When it comes to practical giveaway items, custom drawstring backpacks are a smart choice. They're ideal for walk-a-thons, school field days, and community-based events, as visitors tend to collect various items at these functions. Drawstring backpacks give them a convenient way to carry their essentials while displaying your branding everywhere they go.
Top uses include:
- Volunteer supply bags
- Event grab bags
- Fundraiser incentives
They're especially popular at school events because they’re lightweight for children and compact enough to enable easy storage.
Custom Canvas Bags
For fall craft fairs, farmers' markets, library events, or sustainability-themed fundraisers, custom canvas bags are a thoughtful choice. These totes are usually sturdy enough to get continuous use long after the event ends. Teachers, parents, and local shoppers typically appreciate a good tote.
Benefits of canvas bags:
- Reusable and environmentally friendly
- Great branding visibility
- Ideal for fundraising or merchandise sales
Tip: Consider filling them with event materials, prizes, or promotional inserts. They’re also perfect for bundling smaller items like water bottles, pens, or brochures.
Custom Fleece Vests: Stay Warm, Look Sharp
The fall season is known as "sweater weather" for a reason. Temperatures are dropping, so custom fleece vests provide the perfect balance between warmth and easy mobility. Fleece vests are great for keeping staff members, teams, and volunteers comfortable while they represent your organization.
Benefits of custom fleece vest merchandise:
- Comfortable and stylish layering option
- Adds professionalism to staff uniforms
- Perfect for chilly mornings or evening events
Embroidery also gives uniform vests a polished, upscale look that holds up to ongoing use.
Build Community With the Right Gear
Branded apparel helps create a cohesive, memorable event experience. When attendees wear custom t-shirts, carry custom drawstring backpacks, or take home custom canvas bags, they bring your brand's mission along with them.
This fall, make your fundraiser, school event, or community day stand out with gear that’s not only functional but also meaningful.
SOURCES
https://nonprofithub.org/t-shirt-fundraising-a-new-take-on-crowdfunding/
https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2025/jan/23/forever-tote-it-bag-du-jour-greenwashing-ruse
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022103112000200