Let’s face it; if you have participated in many church fundraising events, you know it can be more work than you bargained for. Sometimes the product isn’t too profitable, other times it just isn’t the right product for your group, or there are too many hassles. How can you raise the money your church group or youth organization needs easily, without so much stress and work in the planning stage? This article offers you some great tips and ideas the will make church fundraising something you actually enjoy again.
Sometimes you can raise all of the money you need simply by selling a good product, one that offers value and gives you a good profit margin. When it isn’t possible to raise all of the funds you need through product sales, think of other things you can do in combination with product sales, such as bake sales, auctions and car washes. These things are usually pretty easy to organize, and every little thing you do adds more to the funds you need. Sometimes you will find that having many people input their thoughts and ideas helps you come up with fundraiser ideas that are unique and profitable.
Church fundraising should be fun for everyone involved, and not something that everyone dreads. There are some other little things you can do that take no work or thinking at all on your part, such as recycling. You may want to consider placing cans or plastic tubs not only around your church, but in other public areas so that people can place plastic, aluminum cans, old cell phones and printer cartridges in them. Make sure these containers are clearly labeled as to what items are supposed to go in them, then take them to a recycling center when they’re full for payment.
You might also consider having a church choir concert to raise funds, especially if you have a large choir. Sell tickets, and let the congregation enjoy some great music while they fellowship and enjoy other members of the church. Others from outside your church family are likely to come if you advertise in the local newspaper or put out fliers. Church fundraising doesn’t have to be hard – sometimes it just requires a little creative thinking to get those innovative juices flowing!
It often helps make your church fundraising efforts more successful if you ask around for ideas, particularly of those who are going to be involved. For example, if teenagers are going to be the ones actually selling a product or participating in an activity, ask them what they think are some good and profitable ideas. You might be surprised at some of the things they come up with, and they will likely make more money because they will be selling a product or doing an activity they actually enjoy.
If you do choose to sell an item along with your other activities and efforts, discount cards are a great choice because they are affordable for most any budget, and offer you a good profit margin. They offer exceptional value to your customer, support your church’s money needs, and support local area merchants in general. Church fundraising is often made much more difficult than it has to be! Put a few of these ideas to work, and see how fast you can raise the money you need for your church or youth group.
Mark South
Easy Church Fundraising
Fundraising has always been a necessity for churches, youth groups, and non-profit organizations. Most people realize that funding is a tool to do God’s work and the amount of funding earned helps to determine the effectiveness of our giving.
Determine the single cause for which all of the money will be used. This needs to be something “extra”. A van for the youth group, a new roof or pews for the church, the 2009 South American Mission. This step is absolutely essential, as the cause must create enthusiasm and determination among the group. The greater the cause the more people will want to participate and make it happen.
I recommend fundraising discount cards because they are quick, easy and profitable. The church members sell the fundraising cards just like they would sell candy bars or pop corn. They sell for $10 and cost as little as $1.50 each. Supporter can sell 10 – 20 cards. On the front of your fundraising discount card will be your organization’s name, logo, and expiration date. The back will contain twelve (12) to twenty (20) local merchants, each giving a buy one get one free offer or other discount. The cards are valid for one (1) year of continuous use by the bearer.
Church fundraising is often necessary for those special activities, trips or equipment needed for the church or youth group. If you have been there and done that, you know that it can not only be a huge undertaking, but can be much more work than you bargained for. You may need a new bus for the youth group, money to take the children on a special trip, or funds for a new piano. No matter what you need the money for, church fundraising should be a fun experience that is enjoyed by all who are involved – including the ones who do the organizing!
some of the products may be getting old. How many times do you want to offer jerky or candy bars? As the time approaches, everyone in your community knows what you will be selling; the same old thing you have been selling in the past. When it comes 
