80+ Church Fundraising Ideas for Every Congregation

Churches and faith-based organizations do big things, regardless of size, and fundraisers are essential to supporting their impactful work. You may need to fundraise to build a new facility, expand your youth group, or fund a mission trip. Outside of upholding your church’s mission and day-to-day operations, fundraising also serves as a great opportunity to build a stronger community within your church. Encouraging your members to work together to support a greater mission is a great way to strengthen their bonds beyond simple Sunday morning greetings.

However, finding new church fundraising ideas can sometimes be difficult. That’s why we’ve created a list of ideas to help your church raise the funds you need.

The key to community-based church fundraisers

Many churches worry about overburdening their members by asking for additional support. The secret to raising money for important programs without alienating members is to offer fundraisers that add value to congregants, whether by fostering community connections, providing meaningful experiences, or addressing the community's direct needs.

So, how do you get people to participate in your fundraising efforts? You demonstrate how your church contributes to the surrounding community. For instance, if your area struggles with food insecurity, fundraising campaigns that drive donations to purchase food go a long way.

5 digital giving tools every church should consider

Given that 60% of religious donors are willing to give to their church digitally, it’s essential that your church incorporate digital giving into its fundraising efforts. Explore five popular giving tools that will help you reach supporters online.

1. Giving apps

Overview

If you’re not familiar with giving apps, they’re user-friendly smartphone tools that make it easier for congregants to give. Your congregation can use the app to tithe and sign up for events with their credit or debit cards.

Why we love it

Giving apps offer congregants another convenient and simple way to tithe. When you have a giving app available, congregants can give to your church immediately, whenever the mood strikes.

Additionally, you can personalize the way your giving app works. For example, you can choose the gift amounts that you want to appear on your donation form. It can also be branded to match your church’s colors and logo.

Getting started

If you’re interested in using a giving app, the first step is to find a provider. Bloomerang is an excellent option because it combines donor, volunteer, and member management into one user-friendly platform, allowing your church to easily connect with all congregants and run unified fundraising campaigns.

2. Crowdfunding

Overview

Crowdfunding uses social media and your network of supporters to raise funds for your church. Instead of asking for large contributions from a handful of your parishioners, crowdfunding helps you gain smaller contributions, but from the majority of your congregants.

Essentially, your church will create a campaign with a specific goal and share it on social media, via email, and other channels to spread the word and encourage supporters to give.

Why we love it

Crowdfunding campaigns are great for churches looking to raise funds for mission trips, new facilities, and so much more! Crowdfunding campaigns give you a platform to share your story and explain why you need funds.

Not only will your campaign reach supporters, but it will also reach their friends and family.

Plus, creating a campaign can be just a jumping-off point for the rest of your fundraising efforts. Try pairing your online campaign with interactive in-person events and creative moneymaking ideas to really maximize your fundraising potential.

Getting started

While crowdfunding is quick and easy, to reach your goals, you’ll need to put time and effort into planning your campaign.

The first step in planning a crowdfunding campaign is choosing a platform to host your fundraiser. Look for a platform that offers:

• Social sharing capabilities. A key part of your crowdfunding campaign will be spreading the word. With social integration and sharing buttons, you and your supporters can share your fundraiser and reach more interested donors. You’ll want to look for a platform with sharing buttons in prominent locations, as donors are more likely to use them if they’re easy to find.
• Customization features. Every platform will have different levels of customization. You want to create a crowdfunding page that is unique, so the more customization features, the better. Look for a crowdfunding platform that lets you add a logo, change the colors, and include images. Whichever platform you choose, be sure to customize your page to match your nonprofit’s brand.
• A way to track your goal’s progress. As with any fundraiser, it’s important to track your progress so you can see which strategies worked and which need improvement. The crowdfunding website that you use should have features to track the average donation amount, your donors’ information, and so much more. Additionally, you should look for a platform that can integrate with your existing software. That way, your information is located in one place.

There are plenty of options, so don’t settle for a platform that doesn’t offer exactly what you need. Spend some time searching for a platform that meets all your needs, as it will improve your chances of reaching your goal.

Once you have a platform, you just need to set your goal, tell your story, and start sharing your campaign with your network of supporters!

3. Peer-to-peer fundraising

Overview

With a peer-to-peer campaign, you’ll enlist the help of your congregants to raise funds on your behalf. They’ll ask their friends, family, and coworkers for gifts, and all the funds collected will be automatically transferred to your church.

Why we love it

Typically, churches raise funds through their congregations, but with peer-to-peer fundraising, you can broaden your reach to congregants’ friends and family. Your church members will be advocates for your cause, using their passion and personal stories to encourage their peers to give.

The fact that this is an inexpensive fundraiser to run and enlists the support of your congregation makes it one of our favorite church fundraising ideas!

Getting started

Turn popular youth group games like Sword Drill, Bible Jeopardy, or Reclaim the Cross (a fresh take on Capture the Flag) into a peer-to-peer fundraiser that the whole family can enjoy. Set up a fundraiser website where your participants can create their own personal fundraising pages. Make it easy for them to share their participation with social sharing buttons and ask them to reach out to their networks to help you raise money in the weeks leading up to your event.

4. Text-to-tithe

Overview

Text-to-tithe is a digital fundraising method that enables church members to make financial contributions via simple mobile text messages, offering a convenient, immediate way to give without needing cash or checks.

Text-to-tithe is a popular fundraising idea for churches because it allows congregants to give whenever and wherever they want. Your parishioners just have to text the amount they want to give to your church’s assigned text-to-tithe number, and they’re done!

Congregants can give via text message when they don’t have cash for the tithing plate, during events, and when they feel compelled to contribute.

Why we love it

Text-to-tithe is convenient for both you and your parishioners. Let’s break it down:

• For your church: You’ll have fewer cash and check tithes to track. The funds you raise through text-to-tithe will be processed and deposited into your bank account. Plus, you can easily track your congregants’ giving habits.
• For congregants: Text-to-tithe is a simple process that can be completed whenever congregants have their phones. With high limits and no cap on how many times a congregant can text a gift, your congregants can give as much as they want.

Getting started

If you want to accept text contributions, you’re going to need to find a mobile giving provider that offers text-to-give. The provider should set up your number so that all you have to do is let your congregants know about your new giving channel.

5. Online donation pages

Overview

Online donation (or tithing) pages have become a popular way for nonprofits, including faith-based organizations, to raise funds.

Your church can create a tithing page on your website that allows your parishioners to give whenever they have internet access.

Why we love it

With the right software provider, online tithing pages can be fully customized to match your church’s brand.

Plus, they offer additional features so that congregants can make recurring gifts and register for events using your online tithing pages.

Getting started

If you want to create an online tithing page, the first thing that you need to do is find online giving software. Choose a provider that offers customization features, easy-to-use page-building tools, and tech support.

Once your page is built, let your congregation know they can now make gifts on your website!

Now that you have the digital tools in place to collect funds, let's look at specific campaign ideas—starting with the biggest milestone a church can face: securing a physical space.

Church fundraising ideas

Looking for a church fundraising idea to support planting, building, and maintaining your faith-based community? Explore our comprehensive fundraising ideas list to find the campaigns, events, and initiatives that will help you achieve your goals.

Church plant fundraising ideas

Every church has a beginning, and building a physical space for your congregation is a huge and costly step. Church plant fundraising involves raising money for your eventual physical church, without requiring a home base quite yet.

1. Buy-a-brick

Your congregants are the foundation of your church, so give them the opportunity to leave their mark with a buy-a-brick fundraiser. Offer your members the opportunity to buy an engraved brick to help fund your construction. They can use the brick as an opportunity to permanently mark their contributions to your church or to honor a special someone.

2. Sponsorship plaques program

Implement a sponsorship-plaque program in which individuals, families, or businesses can sponsor specific areas or amenities within the eventual church building in exchange for recognition. Create customized plaques or signage to acknowledge sponsors’ contributions and display them prominently in the sponsored areas. Offer different sponsorship levels and benefits to appeal to a range of church members and generate revenue for the building fund.

3. Naming rights auction

Offer naming rights for various parts of the church building or property as part of a fundraising auction. Allow congregants and community members to bid on naming opportunities for rooms, hallways, gardens, benches, or other features within the church. The highest bidders can have their names or dedications displayed prominently in recognition of their contributions to the building fund.

4. Adopt-a-room campaign

Launch an “Adopt-a-Room” campaign where members of your congregation can provide funds to sponsor specific rooms or areas within the church building. Create a list of available rooms or spaces, such as classrooms, offices, fellowship halls, or sanctuary seating, and assign sponsorship levels based on the size or significance of each area. Recognize sponsors with personalized plaques, engraved bricks, or dedication ceremonies to honor their contributions to the church building fund.

5. Memorial garden fundraiser

Create a memorial garden as a fundraising initiative for the church building fund. Designate a portion of the future church’s outdoor space for the memorial garden and invite congregants to purchase memorial plaques, benches, or landscaping features in memory of loved ones.

Offer different sponsorship levels for garden elements, such as trees, flowers, pathways, or water features, and recognize congregants with personalized signage or dedications within the garden. Use proceeds from the memorial garden fundraiser to enhance the church’s outdoor environment and contribute to building improvements.

6. Buy-a-handprint

This fundraising idea involves creating a vibrant mural in a designated area of your church to show your community’s unity and collective effort. Your congregation members can purchase a handprint spot on the mural as a gift, personalized with the congregant’s name, a short message, or even a small drawing, leaving a unique and lasting legacy within the church community. This initiative not only raises funds but also fosters a deep sense of belonging and connection as members see their contributions become a permanent part of your church’s history.

Online church fundraising ideas

7. Recipe book fundraiser

Compile a collection of favorite recipes from members of your congregation to create a unique recipe book fundraiser. Invite members to submit their favorite recipes for inclusion in the book, along with any personal stories or anecdotes related to the dishes.

Once assembled, print copies of the recipe book to sell to church members and the wider community. If you have the means, hosting a recipe tasting event or cooking demonstration would be a great way to promote the book and generate excitement. Proceeds from the sale of the recipe book can support church programs and initiatives.

8. Virtual pet walk

A virtual pet walk allows participants to walk their pets and track their distance online. Congregants can sign up for a small entry fee and get a chance to win prizes for the most creative pet costumes. Participants can share photos and videos of their walks on social media with a designated hashtag to create an interactive, inclusive online community.

You can also host virtual meet-ups or live streams where participants can show off their pets and discuss their experiences. This is a great way to engage pet owners while raising funds, bringing together animal lovers from various locations in a collective effort for a good cause.

9. T-shirt sales

Launch a custom t-shirt sale to foster community spirit while raising funds for your church’s initiatives. Have a creative congregant, local artist, or youth group design a unique graphic, an inspiring scripture verse, or a catchy slogan that represents your congregation's values or an upcoming church milestone.

To keep upfront costs low, consider a pre-order approach in which congregants purchase their shirts in advance, allowing you to print only what you need. Alternatively, you can partner with an online custom apparel platform to run the campaign, or order a bulk batch from a local print shop to sell directly at a booth after Sunday services and at other church events.

Promote the t-shirt sale during church announcements, in the weekly bulletin, and across your social media channels.

Church fundraising ideas that rely on local businesses

10. Local business fundraisers

The best kind of fundraiser is the one that requires minimal planning and work and lets church members support you by buying something they already spend money on. Teaming up with local businesses and franchises is a fantastic way to do that.

Chains like Chipotle, Target, and other major retailers regularly sponsor “spirit nights” for schools, in which a percentage of their sales is donated to the featured school. Similar fundraisers are popular with nonprofits, too. Reach out to local businesses and see if you can arrange a similar fundraiser, then make sure your congregants know where to eat or shop!

11. Craft nights or classes

Painting classes are a popular activity for small groups of people. They can be fundraisers, too! See if you have vendors in your town who can host a painting party—they often charge a flat rate that covers their services and supplies for attendees. You can fold that flat rate into the event cost.

You don’t have to limit lessons to painting, either. Check with your local colleges, art or craft supply stores, artisans, and local companies to learn about other crafting possibilities. And—in the age of Zoom—these classes don’t even have to be live.

You could have congregants create videos on topics ranging from crocheting to canning, and then the private link to watch (and keep) the video on YouTube is sent out in the thank-you email.

Because these fundraising events tend to have a higher direct cost than, say, a rummage sale, this might not be the best fundraising format for a large project. But they’re a great option for smaller groups that don’t need to work with large budgets, and they're a fantastic way to have fun with others in your community who share similar interests.

Outdoor fundraising ideas for churches

12. Fitness challenge marathon

Motivate your congregation with a Fitness Challenge Marathon, where members set personal fitness goals, such as running a set distance or completing workouts. Encourage them to collect pledges and gifts from sponsors based on their achievements, supporting church initiatives.

To boost participation, consider using peer-to-peer fundraising software if it’s in your church’s budget. This enables participants to create personal fundraising pages and share them with their networks, expanding the fundraiser’s reach and encouraging friendly competition. With simplified gift processes and real-time tracking, this approach maximizes engagement and fundraising success for your church.

13. Outdoor adventure challenge

Organize an outdoor adventure challenge fundraiser for church members and outdoor enthusiasts. Design a series of physical and mental challenges such as obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, team relays, and puzzle games set up around a nearby park.

Charge a registration fee for participants to join the adventure challenge and compete individually or in teams. Provide incentives such as medals, trophies, or bragging rights for the top-performing participants. Promote the event as a thrilling way to enjoy the outdoors, bond with fellow participants, and raise funds for the church.

14. 5k walkathon

Organize a 5k walkathon to encourage community fitness and raise funds for your church. Participants can gather sponsorships from friends and family for completing your walkathon, adding a personal fundraising element. Provide water stations along the route, set up first aid stations for emergencies, and offer medals or certificates to those who finish. To make your event more engaging, consider hosting a warm-up session with a fitness instructor and playing energizing music throughout the run.

15. Step challenge

A step challenge motivates participants to stay active over a specified period. Set a time frame, such as one month, and have your participants track their daily steps using pedometers or fitness apps. They can gather sponsorships based on the number of steps they take, and you can provide prizes for the highest step counts at the end of the challenge.

To maintain enthusiasm, send regular updates to participants, including leaderboards and motivational tips. Host a kickoff event to explain the challenge and provide pedometers if necessary. This fundraising challenge promotes physical activity while engaging your community in a fun and competitive way.

16. Softball tournament

Host a softball tournament featuring teams from within your church or local community. Charge a registration fee for each team and sell refreshments like hot dogs, burgers, and drinks during your event. You can also award trophies or medals to the top teams, and even create categories such as “best sportsmanship” or “most enthusiastic team.”

For a smooth event experience, recruit volunteers to help with organization, umpiring, and food sales. A softball tournament can encourage friendly competition and provide a day of fun and camaraderie for participants and spectators alike.

17. Photography walk

Organize a photography walk where participants have the opportunity to capture scenic spots and hidden gems within the community. Chart out a scenic route that includes landmarks, nature reserves, and picturesque neighborhoods. You can charge a registration fee and offer prizes for the best photos in various categories, such as landscape, portrait, wildlife, and architecture. Collaborate with local photographers to provide tips and feedback throughout the walk, and perhaps hold a brief workshop before the event.

Entertainment-based church fundraising ideas

18. Mystery dinner theater fundraiser

Host a mystery dinner theater fundraiser where attendees can enjoy a thrilling evening of entertainment and intrigue while supporting the church’s building fund. Collaborate with local theater groups or performers to stage a mystery-themed dinner theater production with interactive elements and audience participation. Set up tables or seating arrangements in the church hall or fellowship area, and serve a delicious dinner or catered meal to guests.

Charge a ticket price for admission to the mystery dinner theater event and include opportunities for attendees to solve the mystery and win prizes. Promote the event as a unique and engaging fundraiser that combines food, theater, and sleuthing fun for a good cause.

19. Karaoke night

Give your musical church members something to sing about with a fun karaoke night. Charge a small participation fee to make it fun, and turn karaoke into a full night out by providing small bites and refreshments while everyone sings and dances.

20. Movie night under the stars

Host a movie-night fundraiser under the stars for an entertaining, family-friendly event. Set up a projector and screen in your churchyard or parking lot, and invite community members to bring blankets and chairs for a cozy outdoor movie experience.

Charge admission and offer concessions such as popcorn, candy, and drinks to enhance the movie-watching experience. Choose a selection of popular films or classic favorites to appeal to a broad audience and ensure a memorable evening for all.

21. Dance-a-thon fundraiser

Host a dance-a-thon fundraiser any time of the year, where participants can groove to their favorite tunes while raising money for the church. Set up a dance floor, hire a DJ or live band to provide music, and encourage attendees to dance for a designated period, such as several hours.

Participants can collect pledges based on the duration of their dancing or participate as sponsors to support the dancers. Offer refreshments, photo booths, and dance competitions to keep the excitement going throughout the event.

22. Trivia night challenge

Challenge church and community members to put their knowledge to the test at a trivia night fundraiser. Organize trivia teams and provide questions on various topics such as pop culture, history, sports, and Bible trivia.

Charge a team registration fee and offer prizes for the top-scoring teams. Include bonus rounds, interactive challenges, and music breaks to keep the energy high and the competition fierce. Promote the event as a fun way to socialize, exercise mental agility, and contribute to the church’s fundraising goals.

23. Talent show fundraiser

Showcase the diverse talents of your church community with a talent show fundraiser. Encourage members of all ages to participate by singing, dancing, performing magic tricks, or showcasing other special skills.

Charge admission for audience members and offer opportunities for additional fundraising through raffles or concessions. Not only does this event provide entertainment for attendees, but it also allows individuals to share their passions while supporting a good cause!

24. Awards shows

So many people offer their time and talents to a church and its ministries, even if they’re not paid staff. The paid staff often go above and beyond their roles to keep the church running. Putting on an awards program that recognizes the hard work those people offer is a way to raise some money while thanking the people who support you.

Go all out! Have some serious awards, like most valuable volunteer or most loyal program head, and some sillier ones, like goofiest VBS volunteer or youth group class clown. You can make it as formal or informal as you want! Go for a gala feel, complete with a “red carpet” and photos, or throw a more low-key event.

Members can be encouraged to buy tickets to the event (which is where the fundraising aspect of this comes into play), but be careful not to ask them to make large gifts at the event itself. Thanking volunteers and immediately asking them to give to you can make your appreciation seem less sincere!

One of the best things about this type of event is that it’s easy to make it either in-person or virtual! To change it to a virtual format, you would announce the winners during a live stream and then arrange for them to receive their prizes later.

25. Sporting event parties

People already pay to watch major sporting events, and they often make a night out of it. Try throwing a party for a major sporting event and selling tickets. You can keep direct costs down by keeping ticket prices low and asking attendees to bring a snack or a drink to share. In return for buying their ticket, they get to watch the Super Bowl, World Series, or another major sporting event on a large-screen television and get to share tons of snacks.

This is another opportunity to offer childcare, especially for younger kids who don’t watch sports! This is another example of a fundraiser that raises money, offers a good service, and provides an opportunity for fellowship with other members… all at the same time!

Food-based fundraising ideas for churches

26. Cook-off

Everyone loves a cook-off. There are a thousand different ways to theme a cook-off, too. Chili cook-offs are a classic. But what about a BBQ cook-off? Or a baking contest? What about a themed cook-off that emphasizes local agriculture? If your town is famous for its strawberries, for example, you could consider having a contest where cooks’ recipes must feature that ingredient.

Contestants in the cook-off can make a gift as an “entry fee,” and people who want to sample the entries can buy tasters’ tickets. It’s even more fun when winners get prizes–you could even recognize the best cooks at an award show!

27. Family brunch

Host a family brunch after Sunday service to bring your community together and cultivate a sense of camaraderie. Attendees can purchase a plate and sample a variety of delicious dishes, including breakfast classics such as pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, and pastries.

Family brunch can help you build a sense of togetherness in your community as families gather to enjoy a meal and spend quality time together, all while raising funds for your church.

You can also add activities for children, such as arts and crafts or a small play area, and live music from local musicians or choir members to enhance the atmosphere and make it a memorable experience for all attendees.

28. Refreshment sales

Many churches offer coffee or other light refreshments, but you can turn it into an ongoing fundraiser by selling specialty items on Sunday mornings. Instead of stopping by a Starbucks, your congregants can simply grab their much-needed caffeine at church and support your ministry.

29. Drive-thru bake sale

Host a drive-thru bake sale where members of the congregation can pick up freshly baked goods and treats without leaving their vehicles. Coordinate with volunteers to bake a variety of cookies, cakes, bread, and pastries to sell.

Set up a designated drive-thru area in the church parking lot with signage and volunteers to facilitate transactions. Accept freewill gifts for the baked goods and provide pre-packaged items for easy grab-and-go purchases.

30. Small group luncheons

Host intimate luncheons for your church’s Bible study groups or interest groups, providing an opportunity for members to bond over delicious food and engaging conversations. These gatherings can be more than just social events—they can also serve as fundraising opportunities for the church’s building fund or specific projects. Consider charging a modest attendance fee or suggesting voluntary gifts from participants to support the fundraising efforts.

Additionally, incorporate fundraising elements such as a silent auction or raffle, where attendees can bid on gifted items or purchase tickets for prizes. Encourage group leaders to personalize the luncheons with themes or topics relevant to their group’s interests, fostering a sense of community while contributing to the church’s financial goals.

Youth group fundraising ideas

31. Babysitting nights

Parents and guardians often put off self-care or important errands because finding a reliable babysitter is time-consuming and expensive. Putting on a babysitting fundraiser helps you raise money for a good program and offers a valuable service to grown-ups who need it!

Nursery workers, teenage babysitters, and members with childcare experience volunteer to watch kids for a few hours, and grownups make a gift in exchange for a few hours of childcare.

Volunteers raise money for their groups, the grownups have some time to themselves, and the kids have a chance to play with their friends.

This idea can also be paired with a number of other fundraising event possibilities, like movie nights, lock-ins (for older students), and other childcare activities.

32. Work-a-thons

Walkathons are a staple of schools and nonprofits all over the country. But work-a-thons are a little different. Participants (workers—they don’t have to be students!) collect pledges in return for participating in a big community service day. On the day of the event, crews of participants gather supplies and head out to do work around their neighborhoods.

Here are a few ideas for work-a-thon participants:

• Shopping assistance for older members of the congregation
• Computer or technology assistance for seniors or individuals with limited tech knowledge
• Workshops or classes that teach skills such as gardening, breadmaking, and woodworking.
• Housecleaning or organizing assistance for individuals with disabilities
• Home repairs for community members in need
• Landscaping or yardwork for elderly or disabled neighbors
• Transportation assistance for those who are unable to drive
• Meal preparation or delivery for individuals or families facing hardship
• Tutoring or homework help for students in the community
• Legal aid or assistance with paperwork for those navigating legal processes
• Financial counseling or budgeting assistance for individuals facing financial hardship
• Babysitting or childcare services for parents and caregivers

Work-a-thons make for a great way for your congregants to raise funds while sharing their gifts with others in your community! People who give to this fundraiser know they’re supporting church programs and get a chance to provide much-needed services to friends, family, and community members. It’s a wonderful fundraising tactic that raises money and gets church members involved in community outreach.

33. Online or in-person craft sale

If you have talented artists, knitters, jewelry designers, and candle makers in your youth group, consider hosting a craft sale at your church. Gather all your artisans and ask them if they’d be willing to participate in a craft sale and donate part of the profits to the fundraiser. Then, set up booths in your lobby or a common gathering area so your members can peruse goods for sale before or after a Sunday service.

34. Adopt-a-mile fundraiser for mission trips

Heading out on a youth group mission trip and looking for an effective way to fund your travel expenses? Consider organizing an adopt-a-mile fundraiser! This creative approach involves asking congregants to sponsor your trip by giving predetermined amounts based on the number of miles you’ll be traveling. For example, if your mission trip is 500 miles long and a congregant pledges $1 per mile, their total gift would be $500, which would contribute significantly to your travel expenses.

To make it easy for supporters to contribute and track progress, set up a dedicated website for your fundraiser. Include a fundraising thermometer on the site so your congregation can visually track how close you are to reaching your mission trip fundraising goal.

35. Church lock-in

Give parents a well-deserved night off while sparking excitement among the kids with a church lock-in fundraiser! Simply charge a small admission fee and organize an evening packed with entertaining games, engaging activities, and tasty snacks.

Consider hosting a movie marathon featuring popular films, setting up interactive game stations such as board games or video game tournaments, and organizing craft stations for creative projects. You could also plan a talent show where kids can showcase their skills, or a dance party with a DJ or karaoke machine.

Encourage kids to invite their friends to join in on the fun, doubling the enjoyment and boosting your fundraising efforts for the youth group.

36. Car wash fundraiser

Get your youth group together and organize a car wash fundraiser in the church parking lot or a nearby high-traffic area. Participants can split into teams and take turns washing cars for gifts from drivers. Advertise the event in advance through social media, fliers, and word-of-mouth to attract a steady stream of customers. Not only does this fundraiser raise money for your youth group, but it also fosters teamwork and community interaction.

37. Game night fundraiser

Host a game night fundraiser where members of the youth group can invite friends and family to enjoy an evening of friendly competition. Set up a variety of board games, card games, and party games to appeal to different interests and age groups. Charge a small admission fee for attendees and offer snacks and beverages for sale to generate additional revenue. With prizes for game winners and a lively atmosphere, this fundraiser is sure to be a hit with participants of all ages.

38. Scavenger hunt fundraiser

Organize a scavenger-hunt fundraiser in which teams compete to complete challenges and collect items from a predetermined list within a set time frame. Participants can pay an entry fee to join the hunt and earn additional gifts from sponsors based on their performance.

Include a mix of physical challenges, trivia questions, and photo opportunities to keep the competition exciting and engaging. With prizes for the winning team and a celebratory gathering afterward, this fundraiser offers a fun and adventurous way for youth groups to raise funds and build camaraderie.

39. Community cleanup day

Make a positive impact on your neighborhood while raising funds for your youth group by hosting a community cleanup day. Partner with local businesses, schools, and organizations to recruit volunteers and gather supplies for litter pickup, tree planting, or beautifying public spaces.

Participants can collect gifts from sponsors based on the amount of trash they collect or the number of trees they plant. Not only does this fundraiser support your youth group financially, but it also fosters a sense of pride and stewardship within the community.

40. Read-a-thon

A read-a-thon is an excellent way to raise funds for your church or community projects. Your congregants can volunteer to gather sponsorships based on the number of faith-based books or bible pages they read over a designated period, such as a week or a month.

Organize an event to kick off your read-a-thon and offer small prizes for the most books read or the most funds raised. To keep your participants motivated, you can also host midway check-ins where readers can share their progress and favorite books they’ve read so far. Consider inviting local faith leaders to give talks or host virtual story-time sessions as part of the event.

41. Penny drive

A penny drive is a simple fundraiser that anyone can host. Encourage youth group members to collect spare change from their homes, neighbors, and extended family. Set up collection jars in the church, local businesses, and community centers. Advertise the penny drive through fliers, social media, and church announcements to maximize participation. This activity teaches the value of every contribution, no matter how small, and can be a great lesson in collective effort and community spirit.

At the end of the drive, gather everyone for a “counting day” to sort and tally the collections, making it a fun and educational experience. To increase engagement, you could turn the counting day into a community event with refreshments, music, and games for children, making the entire process enjoyable for all ages.

Church choir fundraising ideas

42. Dinner event

Ticketed dinner events are a good way to raise money for your church while offering a service to your members. Spaghetti dinners, fish fries, potlucks, pancake dinners, and low-country boils are all popular versions of this concept, but the possibilities are endless!

Draw congregants in by advertising your dinner as both a meal and a show, with the choir providing some entertainment. You can also turn your dinner into a full night out by setting up a dance floor and planning a fun setlist to get your diners on their feet dancing once they’ve cleaned their plates.

Encourage your diners to buy their tickets in advance to help you keep costs to a minimum. It also gives families a chance to plan ahead for their night off from cooking and doing dishes. Consider allowing people to eat at the church or take their food to go, so even those who can’t stay for socializing can get a tasty meal.

43. Singing telegrams for birthdays or Christmas

Give your congregants the opportunity to send each other a fun musical gift by holding a singing telegram fundraiser. Set up a table and ask people to pay a small fee to send a fun singing telegram to their friends and family. To provide more personalization for the telegrams, offer a selection of songs your choir members can sing that your congregants can choose from when sending a telegram.

This is a great idea around the holidays when your choir can pull out some classic Christmas carols and go door-to-door in festive gear. For a long-term, ongoing fundraiser, you can set up a box where people can submit telegrams they’d like to send at any time for birthdays or any other occasion.

44. Benefit gala with a concert

Roll out the red carpet for a fun, one-night-only benefit gala and church choir concert. To add some spice to your event, set a fun theme you can plan your concert setlist around and your guests can dress up for. You can also add a silent auction to your gala to raise extra money and give people the opportunity to take home a fun gift.

45. Choir CD recording

Produce a professional CD recording featuring performances by the church choir. Collaborate with local recording studios or production companies to create high-quality recordings of favorite hymns, spiritual songs, or original compositions.

Sell the CDs to church members, supporters, and community members as a fundraising initiative. Host CD release parties or concerts to promote the recordings and generate excitement for the choir’s music. Consider offering autographed copies or exclusive bonus tracks to encourage sales and support for the choir’s fundraising efforts.

46. Choir talent show

Organize a choir talent show fundraiser featuring performances by choir members and special guests from the congregation. Invite singers, musicians, dancers, comedians, and other performers to showcase their talents on stage. Sell tickets to the talent show and offer concessions or refreshments during intermissions. Encourage audience participation with voting for favorite acts or fundraising challenges. Incorporate elements of fun and creativity to make the talent show a memorable and successful fundraising event for the church choir.

47. Choir calendar fundraiser

Create a choir calendar fundraiser featuring photographs of choir members and inspiring quotes or scriptures. Organize a photoshoot to capture choir members in various settings and poses. Design and print calendars with professional-quality photos and sell them to church members, supporters, and community residents.

Offer personalized calendars with special dates or messages for an additional fee. Host a calendar release party or signing event where choir members can autograph copies for purchasers. With beautiful photography and meaningful content, the choir calendar fundraiser can generate revenue and promote community engagement for the church.

48. Singing workshop

Your choir can host a singing workshop where experienced members teach a variety of vocal techniques to attendees, including breath control, pitch accuracy, tonal quality, and harmonization. Engage participants in practical exercises and provide personalized feedback to help improve their singing abilities. Charge an entry fee for participation and provide refreshments, such as coffee, tea, and snacks, throughout the session to keep everyone energized.

This fundraiser can attract both current choir members looking to refine their skills and newcomers interested in enhancing their vocal abilities, helping you foster a more vibrant and skilled singing community within your church.

49. Instrument auction

Give new life to old instruments with an instrument auction! Encourage your congregation members to give musical instruments they no longer use or have outgrown, including pianos, guitars, violins, flutes, and other instruments, and auction them off to raise money for your choir.

This helps instruments find new homes where they will be appreciated and used while raising money for a good cause. To add more excitement, consider inviting a local celebrity or a well-known musician to host the auction.

50. Songwriting competition

Organize an exciting and inclusive songwriting competition within your church community to foster creativity and discover hidden talents. Participants can pay to register for a chance to win a prize for the best song. Possible prizes can include a gift card, a recording session, or the opportunity to have their song performed during a church service.

Encourage participants of all ages and backgrounds to submit original compositions, and provide a platform for each participant to perform their song live or submit a recorded version. A panel of judges will evaluate the entries based on creativity, lyrical content, and musicality.

This competition can create excitement, foster a creative atmosphere, and bring your community together through the power of music and songwriting. You can also compile the top entries into a music album for purchase.

Fundraising ideas for small groups

51. Wine tasting

A wine tasting event can attract many attendees and provide a nice experience for attendees. Partner with a local vineyard or wine shop to supply a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. Charge an entrance fee and offer complimentary cheese and crackers to enhance the tasting experience. Invite a sommelier to educate guests about the different wines, proper tasting techniques, and food pairings.

You can also offer guided tasting sessions where the sommelier explains the origin and characteristics of each wine. This enriching experience will leave attendees with a deeper appreciation for wine pairings.

52. Comedy show open mic

Organize a comedy show or open mic night at your church to showcase the talents of congregation members. Ask for a small entry fee and sell snacks and drinks during the event. Encourage participants to prepare jokes, songs, or skits, and you can have a panel of judges or an audience vote to add an element of competition.

To increase participation, offer a few workshops beforehand to help entrants polish their acts. An open mic night can bring much laughter and joy to your community while providing a platform for hidden talents to shine and creating lasting memories for attendees.

53. Escape room

Set up an escape room challenge within your church or rent a local facility to accommodate a larger group. Design various themed rooms, each with unique puzzles and clues that teams must solve within a set time limit. You can consider themes like a haunted mansion or spy mission for an exciting experience. Charge teams a participation fee and offer prizes to the fastest teams, such as gift cards or themed trophies.

54. Wine pull

A wine pull is an easy and enjoyable fundraiser that can attract wine enthusiasts and casual participants alike. Gather a variety of gifted wine bottles, ranging from everyday table wines to high-end selections, and number them. Participants can pay a set fee to draw a number and win the corresponding bottle.

You can enhance the experience by creating a festive atmosphere with music and decorations and providing information about the wines, such as tasting notes and food pairings. Consider including some rare or premium bottles to add an element of surprise and delight.

55. Canvas painting

Host a canvas painting night where attendees follow a guided painting session led by a skilled instructor. You can choose a specific theme for the evening to inspire participants and allow them to unleash their creativity. Charge a fee to cover supplies, such as canvases, paints, brushes, and aprons. You can also provide refreshments, such as wine, coffee, and snacks. Consider displaying the artworks at the end of the session for a mini-exhibit, allowing participants to admire each other’s creations.

56. “When We Were Young” guessing game

A “When We Were Young” guessing game is a great way to raise money for your ministry while also helping your congregants get to know each other better.

Ask everyone to submit a fun story or tidbit about something from their childhood. Once you’ve collected every submission, there are many ways you can host the game. Print every story or fun fact out on sheets of paper and display them gallery-style in your church lobby for a set period of time. Your congregants can walk through to read every entry and pay to submit their guesses for who each submission belongs to.

As a virtual alternative, have each of your congregants set up a personal fundraising webpage. Post submissions one-by-one on your social media sites and ask people to give to personal fundraising pages to indicate who they think the story or fact is about.

This is a great fundraiser for small churches where everyone knows each other well, and your whole church community can guess. To adapt this game for a larger church, consider having church leadership and staff submit, and then the congregation makes their guesses.

57. 40 days of Lent challenge

The 40 days leading up to Easter are dedicated to reflection, fasting, and generosity, so why not give your members an opportunity to practice giving with a “40 Days of Lent” fundraising challenge?

One way to run a “40 Days of Lent” challenge is to provide all your congregants with jars. If they choose to give up something like coffee or another daily expense, ask them to put the money they would’ve spent in the jar. When Lent is over, they should bring the jars back to church as a gift.

58. Seasonal plant sale

Harness the beauty of nature and the enthusiasm for gardening by organizing a seasonal plant sale fundraiser. Partner with local nurseries or garden centers to obtain a variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs for sale. Set up tables outside your church or in a designated area, and advertise the sale to community members. Encourage attendees to browse and purchase plants to beautify their gardens while supporting your church’s initiatives.

59. Community yard sale

Declutter and raise funds simultaneously with a community yard sale fundraiser. Encourage members of the congregation and local residents to donate gently used items, such as clothing, household goods, toys, and furniture, for sale.

Set up tables or stalls in the church parking lot or a nearby space and advertise the yard sale to attract shoppers from the community. Charge a small fee for vendors to participate and collect proceeds from item sales to support church programs and outreach efforts.

60. Christmas cards

Designing and selling Christmas cards is a festive and creative way to raise funds during the holiday season. You can involve different members of your church in the creation process to make it a collaborative effort and host workshops where participants can create handmade cards or design digital ones for printing.

You can sell the cards within the church community, at local events, or through an online store. Offer personalized messages or custom designs for an additional fee to increase sales. To add a special touch, you can also include a brief history or significance of the Christmas season inside each card, making them not only a purchase but also an educational piece.

61. Easter egg hunt

Hosting an Easter egg hunt is a classic way to bring families together while raising funds for your church during the Spring season. Hide eggs filled with candy, small toys, or scriptures around the church grounds and charge a small entry fee for kids to participate. For a full-day event, include other activities such as face painting, crafts, games, and a photo booth with the Easter Bunny.

You can also offer refreshments like hot cross buns, coffee, and lemonade for sale. Promote your Easter event through fliers, social media, local community boards, and after church service to attract a larger audience. You can create different hunting zones for various age groups and even add a community picnic or a short Easter-themed play put on by the church’s youth group.

Easy and low-cost fundraising ideas

62. 50/50 raffle

50/50 raffles are usually held in conjunction with other fundraising activities, such as silent auctions or contests. The concept is simple; members buy a raffle ticket, and all the money goes into one big bucket. At the end of the event, someone draws a ticket, and the owner of that ticket gets half the money while the church gets the other half.

These can be especially fun if you have a competitive group of people—everyone wants to have the winning ticket! They’re also an effective way to keep people engaged throughout an event—if you sell raffle tickets at a cook-off and draw the winner at the end, your attendees are more likely to stay until the last moments of the dinner. It’s a fun way to encourage people to stick around!

63. Shoe drive fundraiser

Everyone has shoes that they no longer wear. Rather than letting them wind up in a landfill, encourage churchgoers to repurpose them by giving them to your church’s shoe drive fundraiser. They’ll appreciate the opportunity to declutter their homes and support your mission. Plus, this is a great way to instill a philanthropic spirit throughout your congregation.

All you need to do is partner with a shoe drive fundraiser facilitator. They’ll provide you with all the materials you need. For example, Funds2Orgs is a company that will collect your shoes and send you a check based on their weight.

Place the collection materials around your church and the community. Then encourage churchgoers and community members to donate their gently worn, used, or new shoes they no longer wear. Watch as the shoes pile up and your church’s funds skyrocket.

64. Food or toy drives

Over the holiday season, many families can count on having a turkey on the table and gifts under the tree, but not everyone is as fortunate. Help your congregants get into the giving spirit while also raising funds for your church by hosting a toy or food drive to support those who might be in need of some extra festive cheer.

Partner with a food bank or toy drive facilitator to collect the supplies you’ll need to run your drive. Place collection boxes around your community, or host a drive-thru event where people can swing by and drop off any goods during a specified time. Once your collection boxes are full, send your goods off to your drive facilitator and celebrate the funds you’ve raised!

65. Envelope fundraiser

An envelope fundraiser is an easy and engaging fundraiser any church can run, and the best part is that it’s accessible to all of your church members. All you need is a stack of envelopes, some tape, and an empty wall in a highly trafficked area like your church lobby.

Simply number your envelopes from $1 to $100 to indicate specific gift amounts, then tape them to your wall. Your congregants can stop by your fundraising wall before or after your church service and give the amount written on the envelope of their choice. If you’re looking to raise more money, add more envelopes to your wall.

This is a great fundraiser, in part, because it gives your congregants a visual gauge of how close you are to meeting your goal. Studies show that people are more likely to give as you get closer to your goal, so when there are only a few more empty envelopes left on your wall, you’re sure to find dedicated congregants who will fill those final empty spots.

66. Used book sale

Do you need to make some space on your church library’s bookshelves for the latest in Christian literature? Consider holding a used-book sale to clear out books you no longer need and give your members the opportunity to take home a few new reads for their own collections.

If your congregants are looking to clean out their bookshelves at home, turn your used-book sale into a community effort by asking members to bring their own books. Advertise your sale around your community to draw more people in, and you can even turn your book sale into a larger event with food and entertainment.

67. Legacy giving program

Establish a legacy giving program to encourage planned giving and long-term financial support for the church. Educate church members about the benefits of including the church in their estate plans through bequests, trusts, or beneficiary designations. Offer resources and assistance for members interested in making legacy gifts and recognize individuals who participate in the program.

68. Rent out church facilities

Generate income by renting out church facilities for events, meetings, and gatherings hosted by community groups, businesses, and individuals. Offer rental packages for event spaces, meeting rooms, classrooms, and recreational facilities with competitive rates and flexible booking options. Advertise rental opportunities through the church website, social media channels, and local community listings.

69. Church-wide rummage sales

How many items in your house could you stand to get rid of? How many items do you think your members have in their homes that they could stand to get rid of? Instead of throwing away their clothes, furniture, and household items, members can give them to the church. One person might not have enough to hold their own garage sale, but a whole congregation probably does!

This accomplishes a few goals. One, members get a chance to do something good with the items they no longer want. Two, the event's overhead cost is kept relatively low because all the goods to be sold at the rummage sale are donated. And three, the church can raise money and open the rummage sale to the community, which is great for meeting new people and introducing them to your church.

Consider having a low-key gathering the night before the rummage sale to tag items and set up tables. It’ll save you a lot of stress and energy on the day of the event!

70. Candle fundraiser

Candles make great gifts for the holidays or even for Mother’s Day. But the great thing about selling candles is that they can work for any time of the year! Plus, you can sell a variety of different candles to meet everyone’s preferences.

If you’re interested in starting a candle fundraiser, look for a wholesale provider that sells candles at discounted prices. You can buy candles for your fundraiser at a discounted price on Goodshop. Not only will you be able to find candles for a discount, but a percentage for the money you spend will go towards a charity of your choice.

Have your congregants start selling them to their friends and family.

In addition to selling them around the community, you can sell candles online to raise even more money.

Extra fun church fundraising ideas

71. Singles Valentine’s Day dance

Valentine’s Day is a fun holiday for those with significant others, but what about individuals who are still looking for someone to celebrate with? Turn Valentine’s Day into a holiday worth celebrating for everyone regardless of their relationship status with a Valentine’s Day Dance for singles at your church. Not only will people have the opportunity to meet and connect with someone new, but you’ll also raise money for your ministry in the process.

72. Speed dating

It’s not always easy to meet someone you connect with or with whom you share the same values when you’re in the dating scene. Make meeting new people easy, fun, and safe for singles in your congregation by hosting a speed-dating event. Plan your event and charge a small registration fee to encourage participation.

This can also be a great event for those who aren’t necessarily looking for a romantic partner but are just looking to meet new friends. Partner with other churches in your area so your members can meet people from outside their immediate church community who share similar values.

73. Family photo day

Getting the family all dressed up and looking nice on any given day can be difficult. Make family photos easy by offering a photo day at church when everyone’s already dressed up in their Sunday best. Advertise your photo day for a specific Sunday and set up a simple photo studio where families can stop by before or after a church service to pay to take home a few photos.

Pro tip: Plan your family photo day before the holiday season starts so you can get your Christmas card photos taken!

74. “Festival of Lights” holiday carnival

During the holiday season, bring joy to your community with a Festival of Lights carnival. Engage local businesses by seeking sponsorship for carnival game booths and invite nearby restaurants to offer a variety of carnival treats and refreshments. This festive event promises fun for the entire family and offers congregants an enjoyable way to celebrate the winter holidays with their church community.

75. Pet parade and costume contest

Organize a pet parade and costume contest for church members and their furry friends. Invite congregants to dress up their pets in creative costumes and participate in a lively parade around the church grounds. Charge an entry fee for participants and spectators, and award prizes for the best pet costumes in various categories. Capture the fun moments with photos and videos to share on social media and attract participants from the wider community.

76. DIY craft workshop

Host a do-it-yourself (DIY) craft workshop where attendees can unleash their creativity and make handmade crafts to take home. Provide all the necessary materials, tools, and instructions for crafting projects such as wreath-making, candle-making, or seasonal decorations. Charge a workshop fee or sell tickets to cover material costs and raise funds for the church.

Encourage participants to invite their friends and family for a fun-filled crafting experience while supporting the church’s fundraising efforts.

77. Pie in the face challenge

Organize a pie-in-the-face challenge fundraiser where church members and community leaders can volunteer to take a pie to the face in exchange for gifts to your church. Set up a designated area with a backdrop and protective covering for participants to stand while attendees line up to make their gifts and select a pie to throw.

Charge a fee for each pie thrown, and encourage participants to challenge their friends, family, or colleagues to join in the fun. Capture the hilarious moments on video or social media to promote the event and attract gifts from a wider audience.

78. DIY home improvement workshop

Offer a DIY home improvement workshop where church members and local residents can learn practical skills and tackle common household projects while supporting the church’s fundraising efforts. Partner with skilled volunteers or professionals to provide instruction in painting, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical repairs. Set up workstations with tools and materials for participants to practice their skills and complete small projects.

Charge a registration fee for workshop attendance and offer opportunities for participants to purchase DIY kits or supplies to take home. Promote the event as a hands-on learning experience that empowers individuals to enhance their homes while contributing to the church.

79. Book swap and storytelling event

Host a book swap and storytelling event where church members and community members can exchange gently used books and enjoy storytelling sessions. Set up tables with books across different genres for participants to browse and select from, encouraging them to bring their own books to trade. Invite local authors or storytellers to share their work with the audience and engage attendees with captivating tales.

Charge a small admission fee for entry to the event and offer refreshments for sale to generate additional revenue for the church. Emphasize the importance of literacy and lifelong learning while fundraising in a budget-friendly and inclusive manner.

80. Angel festival

An angel festival is an exciting, family-friendly event where you can raise money while your congregants dress up and get creative. Congregants can design and create angels to showcase at the festival. At angel festivals, you can sell angel cake, offer angel-themed art projects, and play carnival games.

For this event, you’ll need a space to hold your festival, tables and booths to sell wares, and collection plates in front of the angels for gifts. Choose a date for your festival (Christmas is a great time to host your event). Promote your fundraiser by passing out flyers and sharing the event details on social media.

To make your event run smoothly and to sell tickets in advance, you can use event software to help track gifts and your fundraisers’ details.

81. Holiday decorating

If you’ve got a few artistic congregants, you can raise money by offering holiday decorating services. You can have congregants design wreaths and ornaments to sell and offer to decorate the outside of houses.

What makes this fundraising idea so great is that it’s inexpensive to create, and your congregants will have a strong incentive to give to your cause.

For this fundraiser, you’ll need volunteers not only to create the holiday decorations but also to set them up and take them down after the holidays.

You’ll also need a wholesale provider to get all the supplies for your decorations. Don’t forget to promote your services around the community early so that community members and congregants can sign up for your decorating services before the holidays are over.

82. Silent auctions

Organize a silent auction as a standalone, elegant evening event or alongside an existing church gathering, like a community potluck or annual gala. This highly engaging fundraiser allows congregants and community members to bid on a variety of appealing items, experiences, and services donated by local businesses and talented church members.

To pull this off, you’ll need a dedicated volunteer committee to solicit donations in the months leading up to the event. Great auction items include themed gift baskets, weekend getaways, handmade crafts, or specialized services like a catered dinner prepared by the pastor or landscaping help from the youth group. Set up visually appealing display tables in your fellowship hall with bid sheets that outline each item's value and minimum starting bid.

If you want to modernize the experience, consider using mobile bidding software. This makes it easier to track bids, notify winners, and process payments securely. Build anticipation by teasing high-value items on social media and in the church newsletter beforehand to guarantee an enthusiastic turnout.

How to recruit volunteers for church fundraisers

Now that we’ve gone over all the potential fundraising events you can host, how do you go about actually recruiting volunteers to put them on? It goes without saying that recruiting volunteers for church fundraisers is vital to the success and sustainability of your fundraising efforts.

Engaging volunteers not only provides valuable support but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose within your church. Here are some strategies and tips to effectively recruit volunteers for your fundraising initiatives:

• Engage existing church members: Encourage current members to volunteer by emphasizing the importance of their contributions and the positive impact they can make on your church community.
• Use personal invitations: Invite members during church services, meetings, or one-on-one conversations to volunteer for specific roles or tasks.
• Use social media and church communications: Use social media platforms, church newsletters, and bulletin announcements to spread the word about volunteer opportunities and how individuals can get involved.
• Collaborate with community partners: Reach out to local businesses, schools, or organizations to enlist volunteers from the broader community who may be invested in supporting the church’s mission and activities.
• Offer flexible volunteering options: Provide short- and long-term commitments, as well as opportunities for individuals with varying schedules and skill sets to participate.
• Provide recognition and appreciation: Acknowledge and celebrate volunteers' contributions through public recognition during church services, social media shoutouts, or handwritten thank-you notes, expressing gratitude for their dedication and support.
• Take advantage of volunteer management software: Use volunteer management software to organize and coordinate your volunteers effectively. This tool ensures that every event runs smoothly and that volunteers feel appreciated and valued.

Church fundraising best practices

1. Limit fundraising appeals during services. Switch up how you tell your members about fundraisers. It helps prevent giving fatigue and wariness about how the money you raise is used.

A short message about tithes and offerings is pretty standard before the Sunday morning collection is taken up. But talking extensively about church fundraising activities aside from the Sunday offering can overwhelm your members. Worse, it could make members skeptical about giving at all.

Instead, consider including announcements about various fundraising activities before or after the service begins. If your church uses bulletins, list upcoming fundraisers there! You can also make announcements in other places, like small groups, Wednesday-night church, Bible studies, and other gatherings.

1. Focus on community engagement. Cultivate strong relationships within your church community and the broader local community. Engage with members, neighbors, and local businesses to build support and participation in fundraising efforts.
2. Emphasize personal connections. Use personal invitations, one-on-one conversations, and relationship-building to encourage involvement in fundraising activities. Highlight the meaningful impact individuals can make through their contributions.
3. Use multi-channel communication. Use various communication channels such as social media, church newsletters, bulletin announcements, and personal outreach to spread the word about fundraising initiatives and volunteer opportunities.
4. Provide clear goals and objectives. Clearly define fundraising goals, timelines, and intended outcomes to provide clarity and motivation for participants. Transparent communication helps garner support and accountability.
5. Offer diverse fundraising opportunities. Provide a range of fundraising activities and events to accommodate the diverse interests, preferences, and abilities of your church community. This diversity encourages broader participation and engagement.
6. Prioritize stewardship and transparency. Practice responsible stewardship of funds and maintain transparency in financial matters. Clearly communicate how funds will be used and provide regular updates on fundraising progress and outcomes.
7. Celebrate successes and milestones. Recognize and celebrate achievements, milestones, and contributions made by volunteers, congregants, and supporters. Publicly acknowledge their efforts and express gratitude for their dedication.
8. Encourage volunteerism. Encourage active participation and volunteerism within your church community. Provide opportunities for individuals to contribute their time, talents, and resources towards fundraising initiatives.
9. Invest in relationship building. Prioritize relationship-building and community engagement as integral parts of fundraising efforts. Foster a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and shared purpose among church members and supporters.
10. Incorporate adaptability and flexibility. Remain adaptable and flexible in fundraising strategies and approaches, taking into account the evolving needs, preferences, and circumstances of your church community and the broader environment.

Where church fundraising ideas fit into your fundraising strategy

Now that you have found your church fundraising idea for community-based fundraising, let’s talk about where it fits within your overall fundraising strategy! Faith-based organizations rely on multiple sources of donations to fund their overall mission. Here are three of the most common:

Church grants

Pursuing a grant is a great option for all churches, but especially for those with such tight budgets that even small fundraising events seem out of reach. From building repairs to hiring more staff, church grants have you covered.

Like most grants, there are criteria churches need to meet, but thankfully, size isn’t one of them. As long as you’re a registered nonprofit, have a clear mission, and have proven financial responsibility, you’re often right where you need to be.

While most federal grants won’t apply to faith-based nonprofits, private foundations, corporations, or even other churches have grants you can apply for! You’ll need to do some research to find out which avenue is right for you, but a grant can help sustain your fundraising efforts and provide consistency in the often challenging world of church fundraising.

Tithes and recurring donations

You can have a fundraising idea for a great fundraising month, but tithes and recurring donations are what keep the lights on. Beyond the immediate boost from individual fundraising events, establishing a strong foundation of regular tithes and recurring donations is paramount for your church’s long-term financial stability and ability to consistently fund its mission. While many of the ideas listed focus on specific campaigns, they can also serve as powerful springboards to cultivate a culture of sustained giving.

Capital campaigns

Church capital campaigns are a great way to raise large sums of money for specific goals for your organization. Things like new construction, launching new ministry initiatives, and debt reduction… the list goes on. Your capital campaigns need to align with your church's fundraising ideas. You don’t want to be running two fundraising campaigns at once and confuse your audience! Whatever it is, this is a great option when you need substantial financial assistance for long-term projects. It’s important to note that these are probably the most difficult of all the options, as they require a lot of planning and organization; however, more work often means more reward!

Church fundraising FAQ

What is the most profitable church fundraiser?

The most profitable church fundraisers are those with minimal overhead and high community engagement. Typically, capital campaigns, pledge drives, and silent auctions yield the highest returns. Because local businesses and members donate the goods and services for an auction, almost all of the revenue generated from winning bids goes directly toward your church's specific funding goals rather than covering expenses.

What are the 5 Ps of fundraising?

A successful church fundraising strategy relies on five core elements, commonly known as the 5 Ps: Purpose (a clear, compelling reason for raising money), People (dedicated donors, volunteers, and staff), Plan (your strategic roadmap and timeline), Process (tools and systems used to securely collect donations), and Performance (tracking ongoing progress and measuring overall campaign success against your goals).

How do you ask for church donations without sounding pushy?

The key to asking naturally is focusing on the impact rather than the money itself. Share compelling stories about what the funds will achieve, like supporting a local food drive or fixing the roof. Frame your request as an invitation to partner in ministry, not an obligation. Always use clear language, express genuine gratitude, and respect their financial boundaries.

How can churches encourage more recurring donations?

The best way to boost recurring donations is to make the process incredibly easy and to demonstrate ongoing value. Set up a secure online giving platform that allows members to easily automate their weekly or monthly tithes. Remind your congregation how consistent support sustains the church's daily operations and community outreach, and frequently share updates on how their gifts matter.

Final thoughts

There are endless ways you can raise money to support your church community and your mission. Churches, especially small ones, are often caught between the demand for programs and services and the reluctance to ask members to give beyond their weekly offering. But by holding fundraisers that members want to participate in, you can help relieve giving fatigue and provide services members already want. That’s a win for everyone involved!