How can I do it for free?

The City of Fresno offered free soccer practices and games in the Fall 2017 through parks and recreation.

As a parent of five children, I know that it's pricey doing well, anything really, so I wanted to share ways I have figured out how to do it for free.

1. Volunteer: That's right your time is valuable. Who doesn't want volunteers? Most large events need them one way or another. Want to run a 5k? You can often volunteer to sign people in before hand and help clean up afterward, but during the event you are free to run- for free! Volunteering is a wonderful way to give to your community, meet new people and participate in local events you may have to pay admission for otherwise. Volunteering often expects a certain level of professionalism while you are "on the job" but once you have given your time you are often welcome to walk around and visit.

2. Participate: Host a party many independent consultants offer gifts for their hosts. House Party is a website where you can apply to host parties (they supply the goodies) in exchange for social media shout outs. You can be an extra, actor, or stage hand and it may not pay, or pay much, but at least you get to be a part of the magic. Community theaters, libraries, churches and similar organizations offer opportunities to be involved with no cost to you.

3. Work the Event: Be a part of the crew. Not only is it free, but you are getting paid something. If you are filming the game, then you get to watch it as well. Press passes to conventions are one example of how people get to work and play at the same time (Naturally you have to be honest and actually work for a blog or media outlet for this to work).

4. Trade: If you're willing to work for it, you might be able to negotiate a good trade. I use my swim lessons for trade, and my husband uses photography. Having a service you can offer is valuable because aside from your time and effort, (ideally) it doesn't cost you anything out of pocket. Be creative and speak up. I try to do direct value to value trades like $200 worth in swim for $200 worth in piano lessons. Heck even babysitting is a great trade commodity between friends.

5. Bring a Friend/Guest Passes: Many studios, gyms, and admission based venues like waterparks, zoos and the like offer promotions that allow members or season pass holders to bring-a-friend for free on certain days or at specific times.

6. Trial Periods: Trial periods are great, but can be trappy. You have to have incredible strong self control and set a reminder on the calendar to cancel memberships to not get dinged financially. Sometimes subscriptions will charge automatically- so keep careful watch on the credit card account so you can call immediately to cancel if you forget and get charged.

7. Watch for Free Event promotions: Free events come around now and then with companies that are admission based. The best way to hear about these promotions is through email lists/newsletters and social media. Locally the Central California Parent Magazine is a excellent resources for local events.

8. Enter Giveaways: You can't win if you don't enter. If you focus on local and low entry giveaways, your chances of winning will be much greater. Just take the time to enter- but don't spend hours entering giveaways cause your time is valuable too.
Not a freebee, but silent auction fundraisers are also great. Sometimes they have more donations than bidders so you can really get good deals at huge discounts (and your money is going to a good cause).

Good luck and have fun. Please share any ways that you have learned how to do it for free.