Church Fundraising: Good Ways To Raise Money

And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
-Acts 2:44-45

For many churches, fundraising is essential to the maintenance and operation of their organization. Without the extra income church fundraising provides, camps would not be attended, ministries would not exist, buildings would not get fixed, and employees and bills would not get paid.

The two largest allocations of spending in churches are staff compensation, accounting for about 40 percent of a church budget and maintaining the church facility, accounting for about 12 percent of the budget.

Ways to Raise Money

• A multi-family yard sale can be a great way to raise money.

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  The event can be held in the church parking lot and the congregation can donate their slightly used books, electronics, furniture and other goods.

• Another great idea is a bake sale. A large congregation should have plenty of people able to make different types of delicious treats, such as, cakes, cookies, pies and other foods. Each person should be designated to bring their specialty. This can also be incorporated into an event or fair, and can be moved to a booth.

• A fair can raise a lot of money. Different types of fairs include bake, holiday, craft and carnivals. Church members and staff donate their time and effort to make different types of fun booths. For example, dunking and game booths. Admission can be charged or tickets for rides and games can be sold. Also, refreshments could be served and prizes could be given out.

• An auction is a great church fundraising idea. Members can donate slightly used or new products or services, ranging anywhere from babysitting to tax help, for the purpose. The auction can be normal, silent, or part of another event.

• T-shirts are another fantastic proposal for church fundraising. Not only will the members of the congregation purchase them, but their friends and family will too. T-shirts also make excellent Christmas and birthday presents and are a great way to show pride for the church.

• Some churches choose to hold weekly events such as a bingo night that draws peoples attention. Not only does the church raise money but a few lucky people leave with a little extra change in their pockets.

With little or no money, these church fundraising ideas not only raise money for the cause, but will also help congregations come together and get to know one another in a fun way. Newer members will have the chance to meet other people and help out, and older members will have a chance to give back to the organization. Remind people that their money will help out the church in a number of ways and remember to thank each person individually, whether they donated money or time to the fundraising event.

All About God. 2006. 19 September 2006.

LaRue, Jr., John C. How Churches Spend Money. Your Church. Jan./Feb. 2000. 19 September 2006.

Unitarian Universalist Association. 2004. 19 September 2006.