The results of a 1982 survey of California school districts concerning their efforts at private fundraising are presented here. It was found that 123 (or 61 percent) of responding districts either have programs or are planning programs. Although six districts raised more than $100,000 in 1981-82, the majority raised less that $20,000. Of the 66 school districts that reported financial results, 40 have set up foundations to handle the task. Districts with foundations were significantly more successful in fundraising. Districts suggested several "keys to success" in fundraising: an independently governed foundation, requests for general support and specific program support (such as an "adopt-a-program" approach), encouragement of nonmonetary gifts, and emphasis on communicating the need of the district. The authors suggest several guiding principles for districts considering fundraising. Districts should be prepared to make a serious and longterm commitment, establish a clearly defined strategy, set organizational, programmatic, and administrative policies to govern fundraising, establish goals and objectives, develop and implement programs, and install a feedback mechanism. The paper concludes that more fundraising will occur in California districts if the current financial climate continues. (JM)