Fall is a season full of school traditions, community events and opportunities to bring people together. For Mini-THON® schools, these activities can also support a meaningful mission: conquering childhood cancer.

Across Pennsylvania, Mini-THONs are finding creative ways to make fall fundraisers engaging for students, families and local businesses. From a kids’ night out to a school sporting event or a Halloween celebration, these three fundraising ideas show how fun and familiar traditions can support Four Diamonds.

Children in Halloween costumes color and participate in activities around a table during Lower Moreland High School Mini-THON's Kids' Night Out.

Kids’ Night Out: An Evening of Fall Fun

At Lower Moreland High School, Mini-THON brings its mission to some of its youngest community members through its annual “Kids’ Night Out.” Designed for children in kindergarten through sixth grade, this event offers an evening of fall fun.

The student committee works hard to create a memorable experience, choosing a theme, decorating the school and planning seasonal activities. From a spooky haunted house to interactive games, food sales and entertainment, the event offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids’ Night Out also introduces younger students and their families to the Four Diamonds mission and shows them how they can make a difference in the fight against childhood cancer. By welcoming families into the school community, the event helps build connections and gives children an early opportunity to learn how they can make a difference for other kids.

Annville High School students wearing white jerseys gather in a team huddle with their hands raised during a nighttime powder puff football game.

Powder Puff Football: School Spirit for a Cause

At Annville High School, powder puff football combines friendly competition and school spirit in support of a cure for childhood cancer. This annual tradition gives students the chance to take on new roles as players, cheerleaders and coaches to create an exciting event for participants and spectators.

Student powder puff captains help organize the event and encourage participation throughout the school. The event also provides opportunities to incorporate Mini-THON's mission into the festivities, including a halftime activity that keeps the cause at the center of the celebration.

By pairing a familiar school tradition with fundraising for Four Diamonds, Annville High School creates an engaging way for students and spectators to support children and families facing childhood cancer. Admission donations, concessions and spirit wear can also help schools incorporate fundraising into sporting events while building on the school spirit that brings their communities together.

Palmyra Area High School Mini-THON students pose behind a decorated Trunk or Treat table featuring signs, candy and Four Diamonds materials.

Trunk or Treat: Halloween Fun That Gives Back

At Palmyra Area High School, the annual Trunk or Treat brings local small businesses, students and families together for a festive Halloween celebration. Four Diamonds families are also invited to participate, creating an opportunity for families to connect with the broader community.

Participants decorate their vehicles, hand out candy and share business cards while spreading awareness about childhood cancer. Families enjoy an evening of trick-or-treating and can donate any amount, making it easy for community members to take part in a way that works for them.

Planning for the event takes place throughout the year, with the Palmyra Area High School team building excitement through social media and community outreach.

By involving local businesses and families, the school transforms a seasonal tradition into an opportunity to support Four Diamonds. The event also shows how school clubs, community organizations and local businesses can work together to create a fundraiser that brings people together around a shared mission.

Ready to Plan Your School's Next Fall Fundraiser?

From family-friendly activities to spirited school competitions, these Mini-THON fundraising ideas reflect the creativity and commitment of Mini-THON communities across Pennsylvania. Each school brings its own traditions and ideas to fundraising, creating opportunities for students, families and community members to get involved.

The most engaging fundraisers often build on activities a community already enjoys. A school sporting event, seasonal celebration or evening of games can become an opportunity to raise funds, welcome new supporters and share the mission of Four Diamonds.

Have photos from your school’s latest Mini-THON fundraiser? Share them in the Mini-THON Content Gallery! By sharing photos and event highlights, your school can celebrate its efforts, inspire other Mini-THON schools and spark ideas for future fundraisers.

Every school has a unique story to tell, and sharing those moments helps strengthen the Mini-THON community as it works together For The Kids.