What happens when a “simple” school volunteer role reveals a world of legal risk, tax responsibilities, and structural gaps that no one warned you about? For attorney, author, and nonprofit advocate Sandy Pfau Englund, that moment didn’t send her running—it launched a national organization that now supports 7,000+ Booster Clubs across the country.

In this week’s episode of The Boosted Volunteer, host Robin Eissler sits down with Sandy to unpack the surprising realities behind Booster Club compliance, the evolution of parent-led school groups, and how a PTO disaster in rural North Carolina sparked an entire movement toward better systems, safer practices, and empowered volunteers.

Don't miss this insightful conversation that sheds light on the crucial steps every Booster Club needs to take to protect its volunteers and its funds. From understanding 501(c)(3) status to preventing fraud, Sandy’s expertise is a must-listen for anyone involved in school fundraising.

Key Takeaways

0:30 — Meet Sandy Pfau Englund
An attorney, author, and nonprofit expert with 30+ years of experience helping parent-led school groups operate legally and effectively.

2:01 — How Sandy Accidentally Entered the Booster World
A writing assignment and a move to North Carolina unexpectedly launched her journey.

3:04 — The PTO “Disaster” That Changed Everything
How seeing a poorly run PTO revealed the massive gap between volunteer intentions and legal responsibilities.

4:17 — The Need for an Easier Way
Why Sandy built Parent Booster USA to remove fear, confusion, and liability for everyday volunteers.

5:01 — Starting Parent Booster USA
Her big-picture approach, the leap of faith, and the early entrepreneurial realities.

5:51 — What Parent Booster USA Actually Does
A clear breakdown of the paperwork, incorporation, tax-exempt setup, compliance support, and annual maintenance services.

7:02 — The IRS Group Exemption Model
How Booster Clubs become nonprofits under PBUSA’s umbrella—without filing their own 1023.

8:25 — How Technology Keeps Booster Clubs Compliant
Everything from EIN setup to state filings, charity registrations, and ongoing deadlines.

9:45 — Why Compliance Matters After Leadership Changes
The critical role PBUSA plays in ensuring a Booster Club doesn’t lose its status when volunteers rotate out.

11:03 — Growing Pains & Lessons Learned
Behind-the-scenes stories—including a near-crisis—that shaped today’s stronger systems.

12:42 — Building Better Tools for Volunteers
How challenges led to automation, alerts, and streamlined processes for thousands of clubs.

Resources Mentioned:

Book: School Fundraising: So Much More Than Cookie Dough (available online)

https://sandrapfauenglund.com

https://parentbooster.org

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