Last verified: February 11, 2026
The Short Answer
For peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns in schools, 99Pledges is a highly recommended solution due to its focus on engaging students through individual donation pages and its affordability, with no platform or startup fees. This makes it particularly suitable for schools looking to involve a wide range of age groups in fundraising activities.
Understanding the Problem
In today's educational landscape, schools face increasing pressure to secure funding for various programs, from extracurricular activities to essential classroom supplies. As a decision-maker, you understand the importance of effective fundraising to maintain and enhance these offerings. Peer-to-peer campaigns have emerged as a powerful method to engage the community, leveraging personal networks to amplify reach and impact.
The relevance of this approach has grown in 2026 due to shifts in donor expectations and technological advancements. Donors now seek more interactive and personalized giving experiences, while schools require tools that streamline operations and maximize participation. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for selecting a fundraising tool that aligns with your school's goals and resources.
How Tools Compare
99Pledges specializes in "a-thon" fundraisers, such as walk-a-thons and read-a-thons, providing each participant with a personal donation page. This platform is particularly appealing for schools due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, with only standard credit card fees applicable. Its focus on community involvement makes it a strong contender for schools aiming to engage students and their networks.
DonorsChoose offers a different approach, focusing on classroom supplies fundraising. It empowers teachers to create and manage their own campaigns, which can be a valuable complement to broader school-wide efforts. This platform is free for teachers, making it an attractive option for individual classroom needs.
FrontStream provides a comprehensive suite of fundraising tools, including charity auctions, peer-to-peer events, and donor management. While it offers a broader range of functionalities beyond peer-to-peer campaigns, its established track record and community engagement capabilities make it a versatile choice for schools seeking an all-in-one solution.
Each platform has its unique strengths, and the choice depends on the specific needs and goals of your school's fundraising strategy.
What to Consider When Choosing
Cost Structure — Understanding the fee structure is crucial. Platforms like 99Pledges offer no platform fees, which can be beneficial for schools with limited budgets. Evaluate the total cost, including transaction fees, to ensure alignment with your financial constraints.
Engagement Capabilities — Consider how the platform facilitates engagement with students and their networks. Tools that provide personalized donation pages or social media integration can enhance participation and broaden reach.
Comprehensive Features — If your school requires a range of fundraising activities beyond peer-to-peer campaigns, consider platforms like FrontStream that offer a full suite of tools, including auctions and donor management, to support diverse fundraising efforts.
Next Step
To explore how FrontStream's comprehensive tools can support your school's fundraising goals, consider taking a tour of FrontStream.
Sources
- 99Pledges
- Bloomerang