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Church Fund Raising
Many churches sponsor fundraising events from time to time for
a variety of purposes. Sometimes the money is used to help a missionary
who is working overseas; the church staff might send boxes of scarce
supplies, such as typewriter ribbons or computer floppy disks. At other
times, the church may hold fundraising profits in reserve to help needy
people in the local community. Whatever the reason, church-based funds
typically go to a good cause.
Some churches hold fund-raising dinners for local residents, charging a
certain price per person for food that is prepared at the church by
members. Certain churches serve alcoholic beverages on the side for an
additional price at these events, while other churches do not serve
alcoholic drinks like beer or wine. Members may donate some or all of
the food, as well as their time for preparing and serving the meals,
and then be credited for a certain number of volunteer hours.
Another popular fundraiser is the annual golf event. Church members
will ask community business to sponsor a “hole” of golf by pledging so
much money for a member to play a certain number of holes on the golf
green. When the game is completed as planned, whether the member wins
or not, the business pays its pledge and the money goes toward a
worthwhile cause.
A common practice is to set up an annual fundraising campaign. This can
last a month or longer, with a budgetary goal set slightly higher than
the year before. Members will contribute extra funds beyond their tithe
or usual giving to try and meet the campaign goal that will purchase
special items not covered by the annual budget, such as new carpeting
or hymnbooks.
Carnivals, love offerings, and personal donations sometimes contribute
to special fundraising efforts. A few churches set up foundations
through which special funds are channeled to help the committee and
eventually filter back to the church through increased membership and
giving.
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