Fourth and fifth graders raised $1,800 for research at a Valentine's Day "Dance for Diabetes."

Many of the most creative fundraising ideas don't come from old people in business suits. They come from ordinary kids.

Every year, Stephanie, age 10, from Ohio gives a presentation to her class about life with diabetes. One year, a classmate named Samantha decided to do something to help Stephanie.  So Samantha's mom helped to organize a school Valentine's Day "Dance for Diabetes." Over 250 fourth and fifth graders showed up, raising more than $1,800 for JDRF. And it was all because of two girls who cared.

If you're seeking a great excuse to dress down for a day, you might want to request a Jeans Day, when each student donates one dollar to wear his or her favorite jeans to school.

Other kids may wish to hold bake sales featuring nutritious treats. This way, you get to raise money as well as raise awareness about living (and eating!) with diabetes.

Do you have a fundraising idea of your own? E-mail us.