A great and simple way to raise funds leading up to Christmas by providing a welcome time saving service that can add that little extra to some one's gift.

Most people at this time of year find it hard enough to find time to do their shopping so finding someone to wrap the present in an elegant and beautiful manner is a welcome investment. Another group that will take advantage of your service are those who can't wrap a present properly no matter how hard or long that they try. I know because I look for gift wrappers every year.

All you need are a few volunteers, a table, some wrapping paper in various styles and colour, a choice of small Christmas cards, some Christmas stickers and lots of sticky tape. All that you need is inexpensive and may even be donated by your members, your suppliers or the retailer who lets you operate in their area.

Approach major department stores or shopping centres and ask if you can set up your wrapping table at their entrance or a place of their choosing. Most will not object as you do not threaten their trade, in fact you will assist their trade by providing a welcome service. These organisations neither have the staff nor time to provide such a service, so will normally see your offer as good for their bottom line. In some rare cases they will help by donating some wrapping paper and tape. If in doubt ask, all they can do is say no and if you don't ask you will never know.

A little training in wrapping may be necessary however most people do not need much training. On-the-job training is an option that is available where necessary.

Those who are first time wrappers start in the simple wrapping section and move on as their experience grows. If you have someone to call on who can add that extra touch in the presentation area so much the better.

Having a varied price structure is a good idea. Adjust prices from $2 for a quick and simple wrap, $5 for more detailed wrap (this includes ribbons and a small card) to $10 for a deluxe wrap (this is where having someone 'gifted' in wrapping with a sense of artistic presentation comes in real handy). The deluxe wrap features the more expensive paper, ribbons and time for the wrapping.

Not only will volunteers be happy at the funds raised but also love the warm responses from those that take advantage of the time saving service you are providing.