FIND CREATIVE WAYS TO FUND YOUTH PROGRAMS

When the high school’s baseball team finished their annual season, Todd, a junior, walked back to the dugout with the other players. “With baseball over, I’ll miss seeing you guys this summer,” he said with a downcast look across his face.

“Just because baseball’s over, that is no reason to not spend time together,” smiled John as he patted his friend on the shoulder. “Tell you what, our church has a fantastic youth group. We have fun together while learning new skills. I agree, we are a small church, but we have many activities we all enjoy. Such as summer camp, youth conferences where we visit a big city and stay in a hotel, and camping.”

“Sounds great. But my parents couldn’t afford the cost of all those things,” Todd replied.

“You don’t understand”— interrupted John. “There is no cost to participate. Our youth work with church leaders and some parents, open a bank account, and earn enough money for our expenses.”

Yes, small churches can do great things for the Kingdom. Of the 2,100 or so churches that turned in an Annual Church Profile, 1,385 reported less than 100 in average attendance. That means two thirds of our TBC churches run less than 100.

Ryan Keaton, strengthening evangelistic disciples team leader for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, said, “There are many great events and resources for children and youth — without having to have an elaborate budget line item for them. I would imagine there are many churches out there that don’t offer anything for their age bracket because they don’t feel like they have the resources to do it. But that is not the case.”

Claim this verse: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23-24).

Projects to raise funds for youth programs

When parents and church leaders work together and include children and youth—everyone benefits. They grow spiritually. Learn responsibility. Share new skills. Work toward a common goal. Establish friendships. And adults have the opportunity to mentor youth in a Christian setting.

Youth do not accept the money, but the youth minister or pastor deposits the funds in the bank in a separate account.

These are only a few of the projects to raise funds for youth programs in small churches.

1. Rent-a-kid: The youth pastor prints out a survey of suggested jobs for older children and youth. The congregation checks the survey as to small jobs they need help with, such as picking up sticks from the yard, mulching flower beds, and simple yard care.
2. Date-night: Are there parents in your congregation that have small children who would appreciate a night out—perhaps a quiet restaurant meal or a special event? The children are brought to the church and youth play with the kids for a couple of hours. Parents donate what they would pay a baby-sitter at home. A responsible adult is always present.
3. Car wash: Print out advertising fliers and post around town. Announce in the church newsletter or bulletin. Schedule on a Saturday morning on the church parking lot. Bring a vacuum, rags, and soap.
4. Free yard sale: Let your community know your church is aware of clothing needs. Promote by posting signs around town or rural area. Donations accepted; but not required. This is a good way to show the love of Jesus to others.
5. Plan a holiday bake sale made by youth. Orders may be picked up at the church.
6. Schedule a walk-a-thon or half marathon. Plan a route or use the church parking lot. Give ribbons or simple awards for the winners. Each participant pays a small entry fee.
7. Plant and grow a community/church garden and sell the produce.
8. Tutor young children in math, science or reading at the church. Assign an adult to be present.
9. Youth teach adult computer skills. Our youth are experts when it comes to technology. Many adults would appreciate knowing simple computer skills.
10. Youth teach adults cell phone usage. Phones are changing rapidly, but your youth are keeping up with the newer models.
11. Youth serve as a waiter or server for a church meal.
12. Volunteer to answer the phone in church office.
13. Volunteer to program your church worship service for online viewing.
14. Form a team to maintain church grounds and cut back small scrubs.
15. Clean out and organize church closets and clutter.
16. Replace hymnals in racks after services.
17. Adopt a nursing home patient and visit often.
18. Dog-walk for neighbors.
19. Bring in mail and newspapers for seniors with mobility issues.
20. Write grants from local businesses, including utility companies, banks, insurance, and restaurants that have a national franchise.

Suggest that a family sponsor a youth and provide funds for this person’s volunteer work. B&R — Carolyn Tomlin, Jackson, Tenn., writes for the Christian market and teaches the Jackson Christian Writers Fellowship.