Thursday, November 10, 2011

Virginia PTA 90th Annual Convention

We just returned from the Virginia PTA 90th Annual Convention in Richmond, VA.  It was great to meet some of our current Payment Partners, as well as talk to potential partners.  We spoke to some of the schools that already use Pay4SchoolStuffOnline, and they told us their success stories, and how much parents love the web site.  From the PTAs that aren't using the web site yet, we overwhelmingly heard their favorite feature was eliminating checks.  It appears a lot of PTAs are having trouble with bounced checks, either from fundraisers and/or dues, and we are looking forward to helping them eliminate this problem with online payments.

It was also interesting to walk around the exhibit hall and meet some of the other vendors.  Most of the vendors had something in common - online payments.  Apparently we aren't the only ones trying to eliminate forms and checks, and make it easier for parents, teachers and administrators!  The vendor next to us, LoveToGive, provides a way for schools to do online fund-raising.  They have a great product, and if your school is looking for a fund-raiser that has a high profit margin, no selling, and no check collection - you should check them out.  Another one of our favorite vendors were School Supplies and More.  They eliminate parents from having to fight the crowds and visit numerous stores in search of their kids school supplies.  They offer supply kids online, based on school and grade requirements. Parents go online to order the kits, which are then delivered directly to their doorstep! 

And we can't forget Virginia Photobooths and More.  If your PTA is looking for a fun activity for a post-graduation party, Prom or other event at your school, your PTA needs to check them out .  The adults at the convention were giggling non-stop in the photobooth, so just imagine how much fun the kids at your school would have with it.  They even got me in the photobooth at the end of the show.  And, yes, I got a little silly too!

Thank you to everyone that stopped by our booth to say hi at the convention!  It was great to meet you and chat. We can't wait until our next convention and meet even more of our Payment Partners in person!  Not a partner yet and interested in online payments?  Visit us a www.Pay4SchoolStuffOnline.com for more information.

Were YOU at the convention?  What was your favorite part?  Learn something new in a workshop, meet a great vendor, catch up with an old friend?  Leave a comment, we'd love to hear from you!