Creative Fundraising Ideas for Your Church and Community

Need fresh ways to bring in funds without spending a fortune? You’re in the right spot. Below are simple, proven ideas that work for small parishes, youth clubs, and any group that wants to raise money fast. Each suggestion includes a quick start guide so you can get off the ground this week.

Low‑Cost Events that Actually Work

Start with events that need little equipment and rely on people’s willingness to help. A classic bake sale can be upgraded with a theme—think “Chocolate Lovers’ Day” or “International Desserts.” Ask volunteers to donate a single treat, price items low, and place the table near the main entrance after Sunday service. The key is visibility; people walking by are reminded of the cause while they grab a snack.

Another crowd‑pleaser is a community car wash. All you need are buckets, soap, and a few volunteers. Offer a discount to parish families and charge a flat rate for everyone else. If you have a soccer field or parking lot, set up a “Kids’ Sports Day” with simple games—relay races, sack jumps, or a mini‑tournament. Charge a small entry fee and sell water bottles. Parents love a safe place for kids to play, and the money rolls in.

Online and Social Media Fundraisers

Digital tools make it easy to reach people beyond your neighbourhood. Create a simple donation page on a platform like JustGiving or GoFundMe, then share the link in the church’s WhatsApp group, on Facebook, and during weekly bulletins. To keep it interesting, launch a 30‑day challenge where members do a small act—praying for a neighbor, sharing a verse, or walking 5 km—and ask supporters to sponsor each day.

Video content works wonders. Record a short clip of your choir rehearsing, the youth group painting a mural, or a senior’s birthday celebration. Pair the video with a clear ask: “£5 supplies a new set of hymn books.” People feel connected when they see the impact, and they’re more likely to chip in.

If you have a regular newsletter, add a “Fundraising Spotlight” section. Highlight a specific need—new choir robes, a community garden, or a mission trip—and include a QR code that links directly to the donation page. QR codes are quick to scan and remove the friction of typing a URL.

Don’t forget to thank donors publicly. A shout‑out in the Sunday service or a thank‑you post on social media reinforces goodwill and encourages repeat gifts. Simple gestures like a handwritten note or a “Donor of the Month” board keep the community spirit alive.

Finally, mix and match. Pair a low‑cost event with an online push. For example, host a “Charity Quiz Night” in the parish hall, livestream part of it, and ask online viewers to vote for their favorite team with a £1 donation. This hybrid approach doubles your reach and makes the event feel bigger than a single night.

With these ideas, you have a toolbox you can start using right away. Pick one that matches your group’s size, resources, and interests, then tweak it to fit your community’s personality. Fundraising doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be a fun, shared experience that brings people together while supporting the mission you care about.

Gareth Sheffield

Fun Fundraising Ideas: Creative Ways to Raise Money in Your Community

Spice up your fundraising efforts with creative and fun ideas that bring people together and help you raise more money for your cause. Simple tips, engaging examples, and strategies to make fundraising enjoyable for everyone.