Fundraising Ideas

Ecclesias that decide to take up this initiative have a variety of options for fundraising. For some, especially smaller ecclesias, simply encouraging members to donate may be the ideal method. Others may decide to organize something on a larger scale to promote more member engagement. Here are a few suggestions to consider.

Special Collection Day

Some ecclesias may choose to set aside a special collection for one or more of the above projects. It can be especially important for young people to see ecclesial members giving generously, and to participate in that giving when possible. If your ecclesia decides to hold a special collection for any of the above projects, consider involving the Sunday school students by taking up a collection in their classes as well.

Fundraising Events

Some ecclesias may decide to participate in a more hands-on way, by holding a fundraiser. This can be an excellent way to engage members and young people in the ecclesia. The following types of fundraisers have been implemented by one or more ecclesias.

• Music day - Ecclesias can take the opportunity to make a special appeal for a certain project, perhaps building the music program around a theme of giving, or weaving brief presentations into the day’s activities. Tickets can be sold to attend the music day or a box can be placed in the building to collect donations. 

• Bake sale - This is a great way to involve young people in helping prepare and sell the baked goods, encouraging them to see how they, too, can make a difference.

• Spaghetti supper - Like a bake sale, this is another opportunity to involve young people in the planning and serving, as well as the collecting of donations. 

• Bible art show - Have all ages create art that represents a Bible theme or an account from the Bible. Decide how much each piece should sell for, advertise the show during ecclesial announcements or through ecclesial emails, and use the profits for donations.  

• Bike-a-thon or 5K event - Both can build community spirit as some ride/walk/run, while others sponsor each mile and/or cheer the participants on. Members of every age can enjoy these events as family activities. It is suggested that those participating try to raise money from family or friends prior to the event, which will also help bring awareness to the organizations.

• Silent auction - Ask members to donate items they no longer need that are in good condition. Have members donate artwork or crafts to be auctioned off for donations. Some ideas are: quilts, knitted blankets, furniture no longer needed, baskets with themed items (coffee, tea, and spa items).

• Drawing for basket - Donated items can be assembled into attractive baskets to be raffled off at one of the above events. Bible art items could be included.
  

  If your ecclesia decides to take up the challenge to hold a fundraiser, please reach out to riseupandbuild@wcfoundation.org to share pictures or accounts from your event.