[lovethesun]

Just bought a coupon book from neighbor across the street (neighbor #1) a couple weeks ago to support her child's fundraiser. Now the other neighbor's daughter (neighbor #2) 2 doors down is selling a coupon book for her fundraiser. This is also the same neighbor I've had disagreements and a bit of a falling out with in the past year. And neighbor #2 sent a group message asking us to purchase the fundraiser thing so if I decline I look like a you-know-what to the other neighbors on the message. Am I obligated to purchase from Neighbor #2 fundraiser? Should I just make a donation? Or just say "No"?

You're not obligated to do anything that you don't feel like doing. Take care of yourself first and foremost. Their fundraiser isn't your problem nor your responsibility.

[I'm Worth It]

Originally Posted by lovethesun

Just bought a coupon book from neighbor across the street (neighbor #1) a couple weeks ago to support her child's fundraiser. Now the other neighbor's daughter (neighbor #2) 2 doors down is selling a coupon book for her fundraiser. This is also the same neighbor I've had disagreements and a bit of a falling out with in the past year. And neighbor #2 sent a group message asking us to purchase the fundraiser thing so if I decline I look like a you-know-what to the other neighbors on the message. Am I obligated to purchase from Neighbor #2 fundraiser? Should I just make a donation? Or just say "No"?

You are never obligated to do anything. However, are you feeling as though you want to mend the bridge with that neighbor? If you are, you could make a donation at least, but that doesn't mean the neighbor will view it the way you intend it. You can say no either way.

[Arwen_78]

Originally Posted by lovethesun

Just bought a coupon book from neighbor across the street (neighbor #1) a couple weeks ago to support her child's fundraiser. Now the other neighbor's daughter (neighbor #2) 2 doors down is selling a coupon book for her fundraiser. This is also the same neighbor I've had disagreements and a bit of a falling out with in the past year. And neighbor #2 sent a group message asking us to purchase the fundraiser thing so if I decline I look like a you-know-what to the other neighbors on the message. Am I obligated to purchase from Neighbor #2 fundraiser? Should I just make a donation? Or just say "No"?

First off no you don't have to buy the coupon book. I'm sure this person was hoping her group message would force someone hands or make someone feel obligated in purchasing one. I'm sure if anyone looks down on you for not doing so would be out of jealousy for not having the guts to do so themselves.

If you can afford the purchase and want to be friends with the neighbor again I would do so. Yet, they might not make the effect to be friends after. I mean it's a small step but is it worth it to you? If not I would take the $10-$20 whatever the small amount they are and treat yourself to something fun. (I'm guessing they aren't a big hit but I don't know)

[divine1966]

I used to gave neighbors who sold crap like that all the time. I felt forced to buy. Annoying to say the least

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[hannabee]

I'd just say your benevolent funds are taped out for a bit, as you've made quite a few donations already this year. Ask me again NEXT YEAR. And no, don't feel guilty one bit!!!

[A Red Panda]

You can just say no. If you think it's not very expensive and want to just be polite then go ahead. If someone asks me and it's $5 or less, I just tend to do it because it's helping out with different clubs, teams, etc and those are all pretty expensive.

[healingme4me]

It's not always seen the way you are expressing fear over. At least, not in my circles. We mention fundraisers, sometimes on an off chance someone wants those candles or wrapping paper or chocolates, etc. My kids father and myself discuss any budgets in regards to chintzy rewards the kids may come home with. We truly don't try to get others to help us get any of the kids the big grande prize...

[IceCreamKid]

I'd say no. I find it irksome when children are used to sell things/gain donations. Frankly if it is for a school system, let the administrators get out there and wear out some shoe leather selling stuff.

[lovethesun]

Originally Posted by IceCreamKid

I'd say no. I find it irksome when children are used to sell things/gain donations. Frankly if it is for a school system, let the administrators get out there and wear out some shoe leather selling stuff.

I agree with you. My kids are on a club swim team that is private. We pay lots of money in dues every month for them to participate. Yet, every fall they have to ask people to make donations based on how many laps they will swim on the "Lap Day" that they host. I mean, why don't they just ask the kids to go door to door begging for money. I'd feel better if they were actually selling a product. It's the most ridiculous fundraiser!! And I don't even understand why they need to do a fundraiser with all the money parents pay in dues. Grrrrrrr!! Makes me so MAD!!!

Just say sorry, you can't do it right now. I teach and am hit up for fund raising several times a week, sometimes several times a day. I've learned the art of simply saying "sorry, can't do it right now."

[Nina Simone]

For starters you are a very nice person. When people ask me to buy crap for school fundraisers I tell them I pay property taxes. I don't need to do anymore. No matter what it is school, church, scouts, etc. nobody wants that crap! (except for cookies LoL) I don't do fundraising and I resent people thinking I should support their cause just because. I give to who I want. It Is What It Is.

[eeyorestail]

I will participate in fundraisers for friends'/family's kids but I generally won't with neighbors. I don't think you should feel an obligation with neighbors unless they are also friends. It would be unsustainable to contribute to all of your neighbors.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Nada w]

Originally Posted by lovethesun

Just bought a coupon book from neighbor across the street (neighbor #1) a couple weeks ago to support her child's fundraiser. Now the other neighbor's daughter (neighbor #2) 2 doors down is selling a coupon book for her fundraiser. This is also the same neighbor I've had disagreements and a bit of a falling out with in the past year. And neighbor #2 sent a group message asking us to purchase the fundraiser thing so if I decline I look like a you-know-what to the other neighbors on the message. Am I obligated to purchase from Neighbor #2 fundraiser? Should I just make a donation? Or just say "No"?

I would simply say, I've already been hit up and donated to this. Sorry maybe next year.