The Associated Student Government will begin to fundraise in order to stabilize its budget after last year’s deficit reached almost $5,000.

As the senate attempts to reverse last year’s budget mishap, the members are also discussing attending a possible leadership conference in Washington, D.C. this fall.

“Two weeks ago we had our first meeting for the fundraising committee,” said Yeihoon Choi, vice president of finance and operations.

As chairmen of the fundraising committee, Choi and other senators have created a list of five fundraising ideas.

One suggestion was hosting a mass game of dodgeball, which Choi said was done two years ago and provided a successful and low cost event.

Other suggestions included renting out food trucks in parking spaces near East Beach, movie nights, a market where students can sell their items on campus, and a college prom.

The fundraising committee is thinking of surveying students to hear their opinions on the ideas, Choi confirmed.

While the fundraising plans bounce around, senators are still deciding whether to take a trip to Washington, D.C., which could cost up to $30,000. The trip would include attendance at the National Conference on Student Leadership on Nov. 19 through the 22.

Senators would have the chance to speak with prominent politicians and build their foundation as leaders, Senator Bryanna Siguenza explained.

According the conference’s web page, the weekend would include various workshops on “being an effective leader, running an efficient meeting, communicating with the public, strategies for social change,” and many more.

Although there are other conferences offered in California, Siguenza stated that this one would offer the most benefits and help train all senators to become better leaders.

“I think it’s important that we look at all options,” said Senator Emily Gribble. “But we need to make a decision soon.”

The student leadership conference and fundraising will be discussed further, and any final decisions will be talked about at 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18, in the Campus Center Room 223.