Many times, non-profit organizations such as churches and schools are located in historic buildings that have slate roofs. While many slate roofs can last for over a hundred years, there will come a time when roof shingles need to be replaced or removed. Since slate is the most expensive roofing material, the cost of a new slate roof, depending on the size, can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Even if the replacement roof is not made of slate, the cost will still be substantial.
Of course, raising money for a new roof can be a daunting task for a nonprofit organization. Organizations often need to raise funds over several years to raise enough money for a new roof or other construction project. The option of obtaining a grant from national, state or local governments should be considered. Sometimes a donor has the means to donate the full amount or can set up a matching fund program.
Since slate roofing shingles are so valuable, they should never be taken to a landfill and thrown away. Old shingles can be recycled and used to help raise money for your organization.
Some of the ways to raise money with your old slate tiles are:
Ask the company that will install the new roof to buy the old slates. Often the company will do this and use the boards for another project.
Sell used slates to slate roofing recyclers or construction salvage companies.
Sell the slates to other organizations or individuals who need them for their roofing installations.
Save some of the old chalkboards to use for your fundraising activities.
Slate roofing shingles usually have two drilled holes which make them ideal for converting into boards. You simply attach a chain and you have a plaque or wall hanging. You can sell the boards blank, as is, or you can decorate them. If there are artistically talented people in your organization, you can decorate the chalkboards in many ways. Or, you can ask an artist from your community to decorate them. The boards can be decorated as souvenirs for members of your organization, for example by applying a picture of your building. Slate tiles can also be made into clocks and other decorative items.
The price of your shingles will depend on your fundraising. If you are using them as a souvenir, you can ask for a minimum donation of, say, $50 or more, and give them as a gift in exchange for the donation.
Even if you’re getting rid of your slate tiles, you should try to keep some of them for fundraising. Your board of directors or fundraising team can probably brainstorm some creative and lucrative ideas on how to use them.
