Christian Fundraising Ideas - Part I

Posted by Fundraising Pro on June 17, 2009

Church groups look for fundraising events that feel appropriate for Christian nonprofit organizations. Here are several ideas for Christian fundraising events that provide a wholesome atmosphere for family fun.

Church carnival

A family-oriented carnival on church grounds is a great way to raise funds. You can contract for carnival rides with an outside firm, rent inflatable enclosed jumping areas that small children love, offer face painting, sell handicrafts, offer prizes for children’s games, do a cakewalk, and dozens of other fun activities.

Sell inexpensive tickets from a huge roll that to use for each activity or to purchase food and drinks. Position several tables full of silent auction items donated by local businesses in a strategic place so they’ll draw lots of bids.

Charity auction

Auctions are great fundraisers. To get a good turnout, you must promote heavily with press releases, roadside signs, newsletters, emails, posters in local businesses, etc.

Approach all your supporters for donations of items or services to be auctioned. Handcrafted items, gift certificates, vacation rentals, and lawn services always draw a lot of bids. Ask your supporters also works their own list of personal contacts for more donations.

Bake sale

A well-promoted bake sale always draws a good crowd. It can be a Christmas cookie day, follow a Mothers Day or any one of dozens of seasonal themes. Ask around and compile a list of good bakers and cooks, then strategize with them on how best to put this event together with a Christian theme.

We’ll look at more ideas next time but remember,  these event are fun but require a lot of work.  For easy fundraising, keep in mind selling the Samaritan Card, the wallet-sized discount card that practically sells itself.