Fundraising for Church Groups

A great idea for a church fundraiser is puttingauction item. Make sure the descriptions are typed in
together an annual 'Church Feastival' where goodlarge fonts so no one has to pull out their reading
food, carnival games, auctions, and family funglasses to bid.
combine for a wonderful fundraising event. The ideaFor large dollar value items, use a live auction format
is to attract a broad spectrum of the local populationand a professional auctioneer when appropriate.
to your fundraiser by having something forPeople will donate unusual and valuable items for a
everybody.good cause, so put the word out well ahead of time
The benefit to the church is that many newcomersto friends and local businesses about your auction
will form a very positive impression of your ministryfundraiser.
and facilities that will in time translate into a largerPublicity tips
congregation. And of course, there's all the wonderfulTo draw a big crowd, you have to get the word out
things you can do with all the funds raised by yourabout what a great event your 'Feastival' will be. Use
'Feastival.'your newsletter and email lists to send reminders to
Getting startedmark the day and create a sense of anticipation well
You'll need to arrange for carnival games, inflatableahead of the event.
amusements, plenty of good food, live music, tickets,You can also use flyers, roadside signs, posters and
and all the other seemingly endless tasks any largeother traditional methods of attracting attention.
fundraising event requires. Always divide and conquerPlacing carnival rides where they can be seen by
- split up all the major tasks among your organizingpassing traffic is another good way to create
committee and don't overload any one person.interest.
Approach local businesses and prominentMost importantly, put together a press release and
congregation members for help with signature fooddistribute it to all the newspapers, TV and radio
items such as barbecue, fish fry, corn on the cob,stations in your market. Make sure you put the most
regional specialties like oysters or Cajun shrimp, etc.newsworthy aspect of your fundraiser in the
Getting these items donated instead of purchasedsummary paragraph up top. Include pictures for use
adds tremendously to the bottom line.by newspapers and offer live broadcast spots to
For live music, work with a booking agent who canradio stations.
line up the right talent for a church fundraiser crowd.Church fundraiser wrap-up
You want quality entertainment that won't offendMake your 'Church Feastival' an annual event by
while still encouraging young and old to join in the fun.creating the most fun, family-oriented day of
Fundraising tipsentertainment possible. Publicize your event well
There are lots of ways to raise funds with a bigahead of time and also put the word out about how
event. You can include additional fundraising activitiesto donate goods and services.
like a bake sale, a cake walk, face painting, craftContract for carnival rides and inflatable rentals like a
sales, and various carnival games.Moonwalk or jump house. Arrange for great live
Auctions can raise incredible amounts if you haveentertainment and large quantities of excellent food.
desirable goods and services for sale. Group togetherSaturday or Sunday afternoons work best and
related smaller items into larger gift baskets andremember to allow plenty of space for people to
offer those through silent auction bids.just spread out and enjoy everything.
Do all that you can to make it easy to bid. TapeMake your 'Feastival' your best church fundraiser
down bid sheets, pens, and descriptions next to eachever!