The Boosted Volunteer

Think your school's insurance automatically protects your Booster Club? Think again. Many Booster Club volunteers assume they're covered if something goes wrong—but a single accident, theft, or lawsuit could leave the organization and even individual volunteers financially exposed. In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Elgin Allen Jr., Founder & CEO of Association Insurance Management (AIM), and Jamie Fagan, President of AIM, to explain the insurance every Booster Club should understand before hosting fundraisers, concession stands, banquets, or community events. They break down the four essential types of coverage, discuss why embezzlement remains the most common claim they see, share real-world lawsuits that surprised even experienced professionals, and offer practical advice to help Booster Clubs protect their volunteers, finances, and mission. Whether you're a first-time Booster Club officer or a seasoned board member, this episode will help you better understand your responsibilities and avoid costly mistakes. Key Takeaways: 01:15 – How one playground injury inspired the creation of AIM and changed Booster Club insurance nationwide. 03:45 – Why Booster Clubs are more vulnerable to lawsuits than most volunteers realize. 05:00 – The questions every Booster Club should ask their school district before planning an event. 06:40 – Understanding the four essential insurance coverages: General Liability Crime/Fidelity Bond (Embezzlement) Directors & Officers Liability Property Coverage 10:50 – Can Booster Club officers and volunteers be personally sued? What every board member needs to know. 12:05 – Why embezzlement is the #1 insurance claim and the financial controls every organization should implement. 15:25 – High-risk fundraising events, vendors, raffles, fireworks, and other activities that require extra caution. 18:20 – Annual insurance vs. single-event coverage: which option makes the most sense? 19:35 – Common mistakes organizations make when purchasing insurance and how to avoid coverage gaps. 22:30 – Real insurance claims that prove anyone can file a lawsuit—even for unexpected reasons. 25:25 – Safety tips every Booster Club should consider before running their next fundraiser. 27:30 – How new Booster Club boards can quickly get insured and stay protected year after year. 28:45 – Jamie and Elgin share how school activities shaped their lives and why supporting student programs matters. Association Insurance Management (AIM) specializes exclusively in insurance solutions for Booster Clubs, PTOs, PTAs, and other educational nonprofit organizations across all 50 states. References: Elgin Allen Jr.: LinkedIn Company: LinkedIn Website: https://www.aim-companies.com Facebook Instagram

What if the secret to raising $14,000 in three weeks was already sitting in your pocket? Most booster clubs settle for the "standard" chocolate or much sales that require endless physical labor for a small fraction of the profit. This week on The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler welcomes Marsha Sray, a fundraising powerhouse and former band booster president who turned a dilapidated equipment trailer into a rallying cry for an entire community. Marsha shares the exact strategies she used to "restore the pride" and explains why peer-to-peer fundraising is the ultimate engine for modern booster clubs. Whether you are trying to fund new uniforms, a championship trip, or just want to stop selling mattresses in the band hall, Marsha’s hands-on experience will show you how to turn a daunting financial goal into an exciting, high-energy event. Key Takeaways: 01:33 The "Eyesore" Inspiration: How an aging, disintegrating band trailer wrap became the catalyst for Marsha’s first major fundraising success. 03:00 Storytelling that Sells: Why one student’s quote about a truck "carrying our pride" was more effective than any professional marketing campaign. 04:16 The Power of the Ask: Why sitting around and talking about a problem for a year won't solve it, but simply asking the community will. 05:30 Peer-to-Peer vs. Static Pages: Understanding the "Ask-a-thon" model—using urgency, time limits, and exponential community growth to drive donations. 07:51 The "Magic" Number of Asks: Why most donations happen between the fifth and seventh time a person is asked. 09:25 Raising $15,000 in One Hour: The crucial role of the "kickoff" event and why being prepared with a contact list is the difference between success and a slow start. 11:13 Incentives & Humiliation Rituals: From duct-taping directors to the wall to eating ranch-flavored crickets—how non-monetary "hustle awards" drive student participation. 15:35 The Personal Touch: Why a phone call to Grandma or a personal text to an uncle outperforms automated messages every time. 17:55 Aspirational Budgeting: Why you should always push your goal just a little bit beyond what you think is attainable. 20:07 Celebrating the Fruits of Labor: The importance of a "reveal party" to show donors exactly what their money provided. Is your booster club running like a champ or just getting by? Visit BoosterHub.com to find the tools you need to manage your nonprofit responsibly, raise more money, and get back to the activities that matter most.

What does it really take for Booster Clubs to survive—and thrive—in 2026? As funding shifts, expectations rise, and responsibilities grow, many clubs are being pushed to operate more like full-scale nonprofits than volunteer groups. In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, the roles are flipped as Evan Eissler interviews co-host Robin Eissler, CEO and founder of Booster Hub. Drawing from her experience working with thousands of Booster Clubs nationwide, Robin shares a candid look at the biggest challenges clubs face today—and the strategies that separate those that are thriving from those barely getting by. If your Booster Club feels stretched or unsure what to focus on next, this episode gets straight into the real issues. Key Takeaways 1:40 Funding is shifting—Booster Clubs are carrying more of the load 3:04 Booster Clubs vs PTO/PTA—what makes them different 4:32 Why some clubs thrive (and others burn out) 5:35 Strong clubs plan ahead—not just for the season 7:03 Communication gaps cause most problems 8:13 Compliance basics many clubs get wrong 11:20 “Mandatory fees” and where it gets tricky 12:54 Payment methods that can create risk 15:17 How to prevent fraud and money issues 17:06 Why credit cards can actually increase revenue 18:00 SMS works better than email for engagement 19:20 Planning for leadership and financial stability 22:30 Creating excitement around volunteering 23:24 One simple habit: reconcile your bank account To learn how Booster Hub can help you improve communication, increase engagement, and manage your Booster Club more effectively, visit www.boosterhub.com . Be sure to subscribe to The Boosted Volunteer so you never miss an episode packed with insights for today’s Booster Club leaders.

As Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities continue to reshape athletics, their impact is no longer limited to college programs. In this insightful episode, former professional football player and NIL education advocate Dr. John DeWitt joins host Robin Eissler to explore what this evolving landscape means for high school athletes, families — and most importantly — Booster Clubs. A former 12-year professional football player turned chiropractor, author, and keynote speaker, Dr. DeWitt is the founder of JD Football Training, where he provides NIL and recruiting education to student-athletes, parents, and school communities. In this conversation, Dr. DeWitt shares practical, real-world perspectives on navigating state-specific NIL rules, managing changing team dynamics, and turning potential disruption into meaningful opportunities for athletic programs. He also unpacks sponsorship complexities and leadership challenges, equipping volunteers with clear, actionable insights to stay prepared in a rapidly shifting environment.. Key Takeaways: 1:52 - NIL opportunities are expanding into high school athletics, creating confusion due to varying rules across states, districts, and schools. 3:33 - Booster Clubs must distinguish between team sponsorships and individual NIL deals to avoid compliance risks and locker-room tension. 5:40 - Families should avoid rushing into NIL agreements and carefully review expectations, exclusivity clauses, and long-term eligibility implications. 6:54 - Athletes with strong social media followings are increasingly attracting NIL opportunities, blending performance recognition with influencer marketing. 9:59 - NIL arrangements may influence Booster Club fundraising if donors feel contributions are benefiting individual athletes instead of the entire program. 11:25 - Coaches can turn NIL disparities into leadership opportunities that strengthen discipline, teamwork, and motivation. 12:15 - Education and proactive communication help Booster Clubs confidently navigate evolving NIL rules and responsibilities. 16:01 - Student-athletes should stay focused on long-term development rather than becoming distracted by short-term NIL incentives. 18:46 - Setting new goals after achieving milestones is essential for sustaining growth both in sports and in life. Resources: LinkedIn: Dr. John DeWitt Free NIL Resource: https://jdfootballtraining.com/NIL

Ever wondered why marching band parents are some of the most intense, dedicated, and—dare we say—"cult-like" volunteers on the planet? This week on The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with the hilarious and insightful duo behind The Band Dads Podcast: Chris Flynn and Scott Lang. Scott, a former band director and leadership expert, and Chris, a data analyst and "super-volunteer," share their journey from confused bleacher parents to becoming the voice of band parents globally and talk about the unique world of band boosters, volunteer culture, fundraising, leadership, and why marching band may be one of the most demanding—and rewarding—activities for students and parents alike. Chris and Scott share how their own podcast, The Band Dads Podcast, was born out of a need to help parents better understand the marching band world—from scoring and competition culture to parent dynamics and volunteer engagement. Along the way, they bring plenty of humor, sharp insight, and real-world advice for booster leaders in any program. Whether you are a "Band Dad" trying to figure out a scoring sheet, a "Sports Mom" struggling to fill volunteer slots, or a Booster President dealing with a "territorial" cameraman, this episode is packed with wit, wisdom, and real-world strategies for running a successful nonprofit organization (because that’s exactly what a booster club is!). Key Takeaways: 00:50 The "Batman" Moment: How a simple document explaining band scoring turned into a global podcast reaching 35+ countries. 07:23 The Oscar & Felix Dynamic: Why the "Odd Couple" pairing of a data analyst and an emotive band director makes for a successful partnership. 15:25 The Political Power of Band Parents: Why superintendents prioritize band needs during bond elections—hint: it’s about the 300 unified votes! 21:09 Is it a Cult? Scott defends his hilarious take on why the best booster clubs operate like a "cult" with shared values and beliefs. 22:11 The Power of FOMO: Stop shaming parents into volunteering. Learn why "Fear of Missing Out" is the most effective tool for filling your signup sheets. 26:47 Inclusion vs. Athletics: A deep dive into why band is "better" than sports for many kids—there are no benchwarmers in a marching band. 33:42 The "Band Director Whisperer": The secret to a perfect board-director relationship and how to set healthy boundaries. 38:18 The "Speed Round" Solutions: Scott and Chris debate everything from mattress fundraisers and mulch sales to why the Booster President should never speak at the concert. 52:15 Recruiting Dads: How to engage fathers by tapping into their existing passions (like tech, photography, or construction) rather than twisting their arms. 01:00:24 The Standard of Excellence: Why marching band is "as hard" as varsity football and why the older students teaching the younger ones creates a unique community. References: Website/Podcast : www.banddadspodcast.com TikTok: @thebanddadspod Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lang-382ba82/ Social Media: Find them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube by searching The Band Dads Podcast. Must-Listen Episode: Season 1, Episode 1: "Why Music and Why Does It Matter?"

If your booster club’s graphics look inconsistent, outdated, or thrown together at the last minute… sponsors notice. And so do parents, athletes, and recruiters. In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with Becki Jacobs, founder of Team Mom Boutique, to share how booster clubs can create a professional, consistent, and sponsor-ready social media presence—without hiring a designer. Becki, a former corporate digital product designer turned youth sports entrepreneur, built Teen Mom Boutique after seeing teams struggle to create polished graphics from scratch each season. What started as cheer templates for her daughters’ teams has grown into full-season Canva bundles designed specifically for booster clubs, sports teams, and marching bands. In this conversation, you’ll learn how to stop “winging it” on social media and start building a simple, repeatable system that elevates your program. Key Takeaways 1:53 — Booster clubs often struggle with inconsistent graphics; reusable Canva templates eliminate the need to start from scratch each season. 5:24 — Canva is ideal for volunteer-run programs because it’s simple, collaborative, and easy to transition between leaders. 7:16 — A full-season bundle includes 78 templates covering registration, game days, player spotlights, and sponsor recognition. 9:52 — Focus on three weekly posts: upcoming events, recognition, and game results. 11:07 — Strong, well-planned photos are just as important as the templates themselves. 13:12 — Professional, consistent graphics increase sponsor visibility and renewal potential. 14:30 — A polished social presence helps athletes and programs stand out. 16:00 — Canva simplifies leadership handoffs and protects brand consistency. 17:47 — Start simple: post schedules, game days, and final scores—then build from there. Resources: Special Offer: Use Code Boost26 for 10% off Website: https://www.teammomboutique.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckijacobs/ Facebook & Instagram: @teamomboutique TikTok: Team Mom Boutique

When a “game” becomes a full-blown event, booster clubs and athletic directors feel the pressure—more volunteers, more fundraising, more compliance, and higher expectations from fans and families. In this Boosted Volunteer Podcast episode, Robin Eissler welcomes Scott Garvis, a Certified Master Athletic Administrator and Activities Director at Newton High School (Iowa), to break down what athletic directors need most from booster clubs today—and how booster leaders can build support systems that actually work. Scott shares why “people power” is the biggest challenge schools face, how to create a student-focused fan experience, and why structure, transparency, and compliance protect both your club and your community. Key Takeaways: 2:23 The Volunteer Gap: Scott discusses the 27% decline in volunteerism since COVID and why "people power" is the most valuable currency a Booster Club provides to an AD. 3:18 The Shift in Coaching: Discover why 70% of coaches now come from outside the teaching profession and how this changes the support they need from parents. 4:24 Making Moments, Not Just Games: Learn how ADs are shifting focus toward the "fan experience" and creating memories that stick with families long after graduation. 7:55 Student-Led Success: Why establishing a Student Athletic Advisory Council is the secret weapon for ensuring your fundraising and facilities actually meet the students' needs. 11:25 The "All-Sports" Umbrella Model: Scott explains why consolidating into a single 501(c)(3) saves time, ensures Title IX compliance, and prevents individual parents from facing unexpected tax burdens. 24:41 The Power of Local Loyalty: Why high school sports brand recognition outperforms NASCAR in customer loyalty—and how to use that to land sponsors. 34:10 Advice for New Volunteers: The single most "refreshing" question a new volunteer can ask their Athletic Director. Resources: Website: https://scottgarvisconsulting.com/ Beyond the Bench Podcast Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgarvis

What if your Booster Club didn’t rely on the same five people every single week? In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Sharon—better known online as "The Band Mom”—and her husband Jeremy, who ran concession stand operations for the Waxahachie High School band to unpack how they transformed concessions from a stressful scramble into a fun, well-run operation that volunteers actually wanted to be part of. From doubling volunteer participation to running concession stands like a real business, Sharon and James share practical, field-tested strategies that any Booster Club can use—whether you’re managing Friday night football in Texas or juggling shared facilities across multiple programs. This isn’t theory—it’s real-world Booster Club leadership from people who’ve done the work. Sharon and James show how treating concessions like a business and volunteers like valued teammates can change everything. Key Takeaways 0:30 Why this episode is for the few volunteers doing most of the work and how that burnout shows up in Booster Clubs. 1:27 Sharon’s journey to becoming the “Band Mom” and how long-term band involvement shaped her leadership approach. 4:00 What wasn’t working in concessions when Sharon and James took over and the common challenges most booster programs face. 5:47 How managing shared concession stands requires strong relationships with school staff and facilities teams. 8:27 The relationship-based strategy that helped double the number of volunteers. 10:20 Why a positive, fun volunteer experience keeps people coming back and attracts new help. 14:00 How assigning clear roles helps volunteers feel confident and reduces stress during busy events. 16:14 Using point-of-sale systems, inventory tracking, and credit cards to run concessions like a real business. 20:21 How creative, limited-time menu items help build excitement and boost concession sales. 22:07 Why adding drink-only lines improved speed, sales, and the overall fan experience. Resources: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealbandmom Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealbandmom/?hl=en Website: https://therealbandmom.com/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebandmom YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealBandMom

What do athletic directors really need from booster clubs—and where do things most often go wrong? With more than 40 years in education and athletics, Jake von Scherrer pulls back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes realities athletic directors face and explains why strong, well-aligned booster clubs are essential to successful school programs. Jake von Scherrer is a veteran educator, coach, and athletic director with over four decades of experience and is the author of the Athletic Director’s Toolbox series, former President of the Florida Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, and host of a podcast featuring 700+ interviews with athletic leaders worldwide. In this conversation, Jake shares the athletic director’s perspective on funding challenges, communication, boundaries, and how booster clubs can be powerful partners—not accidental obstacles. From fundraising and staffing pressures to sponsorship overload and volunteer burnout, this episode is packed with real-world examples and practical guidance for booster leaders, athletic directors, and coaches alike. Key Takeaways 01:55 The Modern AD’s Burden: Jake highlights the top three challenges facing athletic directors today: funding, resources, and staffing, and why an organized booster club is the primary solution to these gaps. 04:40 The Illusion of "Magic" Game Days: Why the seamless experience of a Friday night game is actually the result of weeks of AD-booster collaboration. 06:30 Symbiotic Leadership: How to manage two legally separate organizations (the school and the booster club) so they point toward the same goals. 13:25 Staying in Your Lane: A masterclass on boundaries—defining the roles of the coach, the director, and the "booster" to avoid conflict. 19:50 Avoiding the "Debbie-Do-Everything" Trap: Why centering a club around one person is a recipe for disaster and how to build a team that survives after your kids graduate. 25:30 The Power of Connection: Using school programs like the choir or band to enhance the athletic experience and broaden your support base. 33:15 Navigating the Funding Spectrum: Insights into how different school structures—from public to high-tuition private—handle the delicate balance of fees and fundraising. Connect with Jake: Website: https://www.victoryeducationalathletics.com/ Email Address: jakestouchdown@gmail.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-von-scherrer-cmaa-165b1292/ Podcast: The Educational AD Podcast Books: Available on Amazon (Note: Jake offers a free copy to first-year ADs who email him!)

What happens when a “simple” school volunteer role reveals a world of legal risk, tax responsibilities, and structural gaps that no one warned you about? For attorney, author, and nonprofit advocate Sandy Pfau Englund, that moment didn’t send her running—it launched a national organization that now supports 7,000+ Booster Clubs across the country. In this week’s episode of The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with Sandy to unpack the surprising realities behind Booster Club compliance, the evolution of parent-led school groups, and how a PTO disaster in rural North Carolina sparked an entire movement toward better systems, safer practices, and empowered volunteers. Don't miss this insightful conversation that sheds light on the crucial steps every Booster Club needs to take to protect its volunteers and its funds. From understanding 501(c)(3) status to preventing fraud, Sandy’s expertise is a must-listen for anyone involved in school fundraising. Key Takeaways 0:30 — Meet Sandy Pfau Englund An attorney, author, and nonprofit expert with 30+ years of experience helping parent-led school groups operate legally and effectively. 2:01 — How Sandy Accidentally Entered the Booster World A writing assignment and a move to North Carolina unexpectedly launched her journey. 3:04 — The PTO “Disaster” That Changed Everything How seeing a poorly run PTO revealed the massive gap between volunteer intentions and legal responsibilities. 4:17 — The Need for an Easier Way Why Sandy built Parent Booster USA to remove fear, confusion, and liability for everyday volunteers. 5:01 — Starting Parent Booster USA Her big-picture approach, the leap of faith, and the early entrepreneurial realities. 5:51 — What Parent Booster USA Actually Does A clear breakdown of the paperwork, incorporation, tax-exempt setup, compliance support, and annual maintenance services. 7:02 — The IRS Group Exemption Model How Booster Clubs become nonprofits under PBUSA’s umbrella—without filing their own 1023. 8:25 — How Technology Keeps Booster Clubs Compliant Everything from EIN setup to state filings, charity registrations, and ongoing deadlines. 9:45 — Why Compliance Matters After Leadership Changes The critical role PBUSA plays in ensuring a Booster Club doesn’t lose its status when volunteers rotate out. 11:03 — Growing Pains & Lessons Learned Behind-the-scenes stories—including a near-crisis—that shaped today’s stronger systems. 12:42 — Building Better Tools for Volunteers How challenges led to automation, alerts, and streamlined processes for thousands of clubs. Resources Mentioned: Book: School Fundraising: So Much More Than Cookie Dough (available online) https://sandrapfauenglund.com https://parentbooster.org

Have you ever wondered how to transition out of a leadership role while ensuring your Booster Club not only survives but thrives? Leadership transitions don’t have to feel overwhelming. In this solo episode, Robin Eissler opens up for the first time about her own Booster Club journey—how she was unexpectedly recruited as a freshman parent, the challenges she faced stepping into leadership, and the systems she built to ensure her Booster Club would thrive long after she left. Robin walks through the heart of succession planning: recruiting across multiple grade levels, defining roles, establishing culture, documenting your processes, and creating a smooth handoff for future leaders. Whether you’re a new volunteer or a seasoned officer, this episode will help you build a Booster Club that’s stronger, more organized, and ready for the next generation. Key Takeaways: 3:13 Why recruiting across multiple grade levels prevents leadership gaps 4:47 The “mysterious binder” and the need for organized documentation 6:03 Meeting with program directors keeps leadership aligned 8:36 Building a pipeline of future officers through consistent involvement 9:11 Defining roles clearly to avoid volunteer burnout 12:31 Why a nominating committee strengthens succession planning 13:18 Simplifying tools and systems for smoother transitions 14:29 How consistent meetings and recognition build positive culture 16:02 Robin’s full recap of effective succession planning essentials

What if hitting your fundraising goal meant dumping a cooler of ice water on your band director? That's exactly the fun, high-stakes gamble the Polar Bear Band Boosters in West Virginia used to raise over $10,000 in a single week! Join host Robin Eissler as she talks with this week's guest, Chris Sharps, the social media coordinator for the Fairmont Senior High School Polar Bear Band Boosters. Chris, whose background is in higher education recruitment, enrollment, and technology integration—including a forward-thinking approach to AI in knowledge management—shares the secret sauce to their massively successful social media fundraising campaign. Discover how cleaning up their online presence, using short-form video, and leveraging the power of alumni storytelling transformed a modest $2,000 campaign into a $10,000 capital replacement success! Plus, find out how accepting credit cards dramatically increased their concession sales. This episode is packed with tactical, real-world advice to help your Booster Club stop struggling with traditional sales and start seeing major returns on their digital efforts. Key Takeaways: 7:20 - Credit Card Sales: Switching to credit cards at concessions boosted sales by 30% to 50%. 11:17 - $10,000 Social Fundraiser: How a "Polar Bear Plunge" challenge raised over $10,000 in one week for a new trailer. 19:15 - Alumni Gold: Use storytelling to tap into alumni and alumni parents, who are often your largest donors. 21:43 - Matching Funds Power: Securing matching funds upfront raised the average donation to about $75 and encouraged more first-time giving. 26:03 - Magic Seven: The power of seven: Consistent daily posts for a week is the key to driving action and donations. 28:15 - Streaming Tech: Invest in tech like external microphones and a gimbal—and watch out for your phone overheating during live streams.

How safe are your student athletes and band members in the heat? In this episode of the Boosted Volunteer podcast, host Robin Eissler sits down with Melissa Fortenberry, founder and CEO of HeatSense, to talk about the critical issue of heat safety in youth athletics and marching bands. From her personal experience as a parent to developing cutting-edge wearable technology, Melissa shares how HeatSense empowers coaches, parents, and administrators with real-time data to prevent heat-related illness before it becomes dangerous. HeatSense combines a lightweight wearable with a powerful app and a coach dashboard to monitor athletes' vitals in real time, helping prevent heat-related illness before it becomes an emergency. Key Takeaways 2:00 – The inspiration behind HeatSense: Melissa’s personal experience in the Texas heat. 2:37 – Three problems with current heat regulations: waiting for symptoms is too late, WBGT’s limits, and challenges in measuring core body temperature. 4:37 – How HeatSense works: non-invasive wearables, apps, and dashboards that provide coachable insights in real time. 6:00 – Alerts and customization: notifications for coaches, parents, and leaders to respond before students overheat. 7:02 – Marching bands vs. athletes: the added challenges of uniforms, asphalt, and turf. 7:55 – Empowering parents without “helicoptering”: how data builds advocacy and peace of mind. 9:10 – Team vs. individual solutions: how coaches and schools can monitor dozens of students at once. 11:26 – Advocating for better heat safety at schools: asking about emergency action plans. 13:00 – The future of HeatSense: personalization, prediction, and performance improvements through data. 15:15 – Lessons from high school sports: how soccer shaped Melissa’s resilience and leadership. Resources: Website: https://heatsense.com/ Facebook: Facebook Twitter: Twitter/X Instagram: Instagram Linkedin: LinkedIn

What happens when a passion for music, family, and community blends with strong leadership and smart fundraising? This week’s episode of the Boosted Volunteer Podcast, hosted by Robin Eissler, shines a spotlight on Jessica Enneking, Co-President of the Lakeville South Band Boosters. With over 20 years of nonprofit experience and a deep commitment to giving back, Jessica shares her journey from parent volunteer to co-leading one of the largest band booster programs in Minnesota. From building a “band family” of 600 students and parents to launching creative fundraisers like the Band Breakfast Bonanza and their first-ever craft fair, Jessica offers invaluable insight into what it takes to keep a thriving music program alive and growing. You’ll also hear how Booster Hub transformed their communication and organization, making life easier for both directors and families. Key Takeaways: (2:45) How Jessica’s early involvement prepared her for Booster leadership. (6:11) The growth of Lakeville South’s band program and opportunities it provides. (8:53) Why Booster Hub has been “life-changing” for communication and efficiency. (10:06) Fundraising strategies: Band Breakfast Bonanza, silent auctions, raffles, and craft fairs. (15:14) Defining roles between directors and boosters to align vision and reduce conflict. (17:19) Creating structured board positions to encourage accountability and engagement. (20:14) Celebrating a decade of passion and pride in competitive marching band. Whether you’re running a band, sports, or arts booster, Jessica’s story is full of inspiration and practical strategies you can apply to your own organization. Resources: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-enneking-lmft-b6888410/

When disaster struck his community, Justin McKenzie and the Comfort Area Foundation quickly realized that running a relief effort takes more than just good intentions. Managing donations, ensuring compliance, and coordinating volunteers brought challenges they hadn’t expected. In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, Justin shares how Booster Hub helped his team fundraise responsibly, stay organized, and maintain donor trust during a crisis. He also reflects on the lifelong impact of booster clubs, from his Friday night football days to his journey as an Ironman athlete. Key Takeaways: 06:15 Why online fundraising is more complex than it looks — and common mistakes to avoid 12:48 How the Comfort Area Foundation navigated compliance, receipts, and transparency when managing donations 20:37 The role Booster Hub played in turning volunteers into an organized, reliable team 28:54 Lessons from Justin’s high school sports and Ironman training that still influence his leadership today 35:12 Why booster clubs are vital for shaping kids’ experiences and strengthening communities Resources: Justin McKenzie Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinmckenzie/

What does it take to build long-term infrastructure for a Booster Club that supports athletes, coaches, and parents? This week, Robin Eissler sits down with Jason Stover, Vice President of the Eagle Touchdown Club in Prosper, Texas, and former officer of the Reynolds Athletics Booster Club. With experience leading clubs at both the middle school and high school levels, Jason brings a wealth of insight into what it really takes to build strong, lasting support for student-athletes. Jason is a former military serviceman whose journey began in high school Junior ROTC, led to serving in the Army, and eventually transitioned into a career in IT. Throughout the episode, Jason shares how the sense of camaraderie he experienced in the military deeply influenced his approach to leadership and community engagement. He also shares the key differences between managing general athletic booster clubs and sport-specific ones, how club needs shift between school levels, and why building long-term infrastructure is critical. Whether you're stepping into a volunteer role for the first time or leading a well-established board, this conversation is packed with strategies you can use right away. Key Takeaways 1:26 Jason’s start as a Watch D.O.G.S. dad. 2:51 Volunteering during COVID at Reynolds. 4:18 Booster clubs as a bridge for communication. 5:59 Challenges with scattered platforms. 8:22 Creating structure for parent engagement. 9:58 Switching to BoosterHub for consistency. 11:31 Building infrastructure that lasts. 13:47 Sport-specific support vs. general athletics 15:54 Fundraising: call-a-thons vs. sponsorships. 17:28 Differences between middle and high school clubs. 19:45 Jason’s advice to future volunteers. 25:13 Transition to Civilian Life: From Army to IT 27:27 Finding Community: The Importance of Connection 29:59 Gratitude and Acknowledgements Resources: Jason Stover LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jasonstover Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stovieus

Struggling to get enough hands to help out with your booster club? You’re not alone. In this solo episode, host Robin Eissler tackles one of the biggest challenges Booster Clubs face: volunteer recruitment. Discover a practical, tested system that goes beyond just sending sign-up emails—because getting people to help isn't just about asking; it's about connecting. Robin introduces the I-CHAT framework—a five-step volunteer recruitment strategy that’s already helping booster clubs around the country grow their volunteer base and strengthen their community. If you’re tired of doing it all alone, this episode is for you! Key Takeaways 1:02 Why volunteer burnout is so common and how to set better expectations 2:52 The 5-part “I-CHAT” method to build a reliable volunteer base I – Introduction: How to raise awareness of your Booster Club (2:52) C – Contact: Why contact info is your most powerful tool (4:30) H – Hype: Create emotional buy-in beyond “we need help” (5:45) A – Ask: The 3-layered approach to making the right ask at the right time (7:08) T – Thank you: Turning volunteers into future leaders (10:57) 15:28 The danger of the “Debbie Do Everything” syndrome 14:20 How to avoid cliques and create a welcoming culture for new volunteers 17:14 Build a culture of 100% participation and track it publicly 13:04 Why transparency in roles and time commitment breaks down barriers 16:54 Letting things fall through the cracks—on purpose—to spark change

Tired of asking your community for another donation? What if your Booster Club could raise money every time someone shops online—without spending anything extra? This week, Robin Eissler welcomes Eric Peck, founder of FanFundU, a platform that turns everyday shopping into a sustainable fundraising tool for Booster Clubs. With 15 years of experience in loyalty programs and affiliate marketing, Eric shares how he built a system that allows schools to earn real dollars by simply guiding families to start their online purchases through FanFundU. Eric explains how the model works, the kind of retailers involved (Nike, Expedia, Macy’s, and 500+ more), and how Booster Clubs can use it to reduce volunteer burnout and replace constant one-off fundraisers. You’ll also hear why this “set it and forget it” tool is perfect for reaching not just parents, but the broader community. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 2:35 How FanFundU works 3:28 Challenges and Benefits of Traditional Fundraising 4:01 Why traditional fundraising burns people out 5:46 Fan Fund U's Impact and Future Plans 7:01 Average earnings per shopper 8:06 How Booster Clubs get started 10:22 Club visibility and reporting 13:06 Big-name retailers on the platform 14:11 Building Community Relationships through Fundraising Ready to Try It? Sign your club up today for free at www.fanfundu.com and start earning while your supporters shop. Resources: Eric Peck | www.fanfundu.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/efpeck/ Twitter: https://x.com/fanfundu @FanFundU Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567622018638# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fanfundu/ @FanFundU

What do you get when you combine military discipline, musical passion, and multigenerational spirit? You get the Troopers Legacy Corps—an all-age drum and bugle ensemble committed to legacy, community, and lasting impact. In this episode of The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with Mark Kincaid, fundraising chair and advisory board member of Troopers Legacy Corps, a proud extension of the historic Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps from Casper, Wyoming. Mark shares how a one-time reunion group transformed into a sustainable, mission-driven organization that brings together alumni, families, and first-time volunteers alike. He walks us through his personal journey—from a military career to a leadership role in the Corps—and the challenges and triumphs of managing a diverse and passionate group of volunteers. You’ll learn how Troopers Legacy balances urgent needs like new equipment with long-term goals like scholarships and endowments. From streamlining communication through BoosterHub to creatively engaging “age-outs,” Mark offers practical strategies and heartfelt lessons for any booster leader working to build something meaningful. Whether you're leading a performing arts booster or launching a brand-new volunteer group, this episode is packed with inspiration, tools, and real-world insight. Key Takeaways: 1:00 How Troopers Legacy Corps grew from a one-time idea into a full-fledged ensemble 4:16 Creating a space where members from ages 14 to 80+ can march together 11:06 Mark’s multi-pronged fundraising approach—from targeted appeals to affiliate links 18:17 Using BoosterHub to simplify logistics and engage volunteers 19:00 The reality of raising money now vs. planning for the future 21:01 Why booster clubs need to be run like a business 24:34 Mark’s proudest achievement: turning performance into purpose 25:00 Advice for new booster leaders: recruit strategically and think long-term 27:05 Upcoming performances and how the Corps is welcoming the next generation of alumni Resources: Website: https://trooperslegacycorps.boosterhub.com/home/8939

What happens when a high school band program says yes to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—with just weeks to prepare? You get a story of passion, partnership, and pushing past expectations. In this week’s Boosted Volunteer Podcast, hosts Robin and Evan Eissler welcome James Rees, Director of Bands at Grapevine High School, and Diane Pintar, Vice President of the Grapevine Band Boosters. Together, they share the incredible behind-the-scenes story of how preparation, community, and a little serendipity landed their high school band the chance to perform for none other than Post Malone, a Grapevine alum, at AT&T Stadium. Together, they share how vision, collaboration, and sheer determination helped turn a last-minute request into an unforgettable, student-centered success story. They talk about the power of aiming high, manifesting more, and knowing when to say yes—and when not yet is the wiser move. Key Highlights: (03:57) The phone call that changed everything (07:24) A whirlwind two-week timeline to showtime (11:18) The logistics, community support, and behind-the-scenes hustle (19:47) Why “do it” is the best advice for programs facing big opportunities (20:59) When your vision outgrows expectations—and why that’s a good thing (22:06) Balancing epic experiences with everyday responsibilities (23:11) The art of leading from a place of “yes”—while managing real-world limits (24:02) Final reflections and a challenge to dream even bigger Whether you’re an educator, parent, or volunteer leader, this episode will leave you motivated to dream bigger and act boldly for your students.