Two Great and Cheap Programs

I've run across two really fun and inexpensive program ideas that I wanted to share.  I know that everyone is searching for those supplemental programs-- those events that fill up the holes in the program calendar after the budget is spent.  Perhaps these will help.

A Car Show:  Host a car show on campus.  You can choose an Antique Car Show, a Classic Hot Rod Show, or a combination.  There is likely local car club with whom you could co-sponsor, or just do it yourself. 

It may sound hard to believe, but the owners of these special cars will actually pay a fee to put their car on display.  You could include a competition-- because every car owner wants to win a "Gold Medal" or "Best In Show."  If you're not familiar with the categories, you've likely got some "motorheads" on your program board or in your community to help with categories and judging.

I won't go into all the details, because you know them already from other shows and events.  Reserve a parking lot or green space for your car show, create the signs, to direct people there, and publicize both on and off campus.  It's a great family-oriented weekend event, and a great community outreach.  You will be amazed at how many people will come and look at cars!

Of course, don't forget to sell refreshments-- hot dogs, burger, soft drinks, and popcorn.   You might provide some "kid activities" too, like face painting.

A Spa Day:  You can host a Spa Day on your campus.  While this initial concept is targeted at women, you could certainly modify it for your men students, too.

You can contact your local Mary Kay dealers, or Avon, and they will send out associates to do make up and "make overs."  Of course, they will likely want to sell their products.

If your campus has majors in physical therapy or sports medicine, you may be able to get students to offer chair massage as a part of spa day.  Find a source for nails, and you've got most of a full Spa Experience.  And you can do it in the ballroom of your student center for next-to-nothing.