4 GREAT OPTIONS FOR FUNDING YOUR MINISTRY EFFORTS
Jeff Ellenberger, President
What elements of your fundraiser are most appealing to churches?
Our brochure and online programs are easy to administrate — and the product is easy to sell. (Everybody loves flowers!)
Every plant and bulb is guaranteed to grow and bloom; otherwise, we’ll replace that product.
Price-wise, our bulbs are low-cost and high-profit.
What groups within a church have the most success selling your fundraiser?
We’ve seen youth and adult groups do very well. But, a successful fundraiser always depends on a good group leader — enthusiastic, organized and goal-driven. Sales are motivated by leadership.
What advice can you offer to churches selling your fundraiser?
Besides appointing a motivated, organized group leader, we recommend:
• Have fun! Set a realistic, attainable dollar goal.
• Initiate with a kickoff meeting. Stress the importance of everyone’s participation. Set clear start / end dates (two to three weeks, ideally).
• Spread the word beyond the congregation. Involve the community through social media, local media outlets, bulletin boards at work, and posters in local businesses.
• Consider timing. Try not to compete with other community fundraisers.
• Hold a wrap-up meeting. Announce results, recognize top sellers, and thank everyone involved.
William Rice, Co-Publisher
What elements of your fundraiser are most appealing to churches?
Fundraising cookbooks stand out because they engage the church community, as well as raise valuable ministry funds. Who doesn’t like to show off and share their favorite recipes — and see their name in print? People often buy cookbooks to give as gifts, or to use them themselves.
Our website makes the cookbook’s creation and design easy. Church members are invited to participate; they even enter their favorite recipes. Pre-designed layouts and religious-themed covers ensure quick, simple printing.
What groups within a church have the most success selling your fundraiser?
We’ve seen youth groups, choirs, women’s groups and capital campaigns all benefit. The more people involved, the better — and that’s where our online communication tools can really help to engage and motivate people.
What advice can you offer to churches selling your fundraiser?
One of the best things about church cookbooks is that you don’t “sell” them — they sell themselves! You start by inviting everyone to submit their best recipes online. Then, you ask how many copies each contributor wants.
You’ll also find that community members outside the church are willing to purchase local cookbooks.
Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program
Lisa Emig, Marketing Services Manager
What elements of your fundraiser are most appealing to churches?
Everyone loves pizza! In fact, most people buy it at least once a week.
With the brand name of Little Caesars, buyers know they’re getting the quality and value they expect. Each Kit includes more than one pizza (or bread).
Plus, our fundraiser is easy to run — something the fundraising program coordinator will appreciate.
What groups within a church have the most success selling your fundraiser?
Because pizza is so well-loved, all groups have the same potential for success. If your group is motivated and excited, the fundraiser will be profitable!
We’ve helped raise funds for the overall needs of church mission and youth groups, daycares, auxiliary groups, and building improvement funds. Pizza Kits have also been the fundraiser of choice for church groups looking to fund a specific need, such as choir robes or hymnals.
What advice can you offer to churches selling your fundraiser?
Get the word out! Let their friends, family, and congregants know that it’s Pizza Kit time. Use social media, email and posters around the church and your community. Mention your fundraiser in your church bulletin and weekly announcements.
Dan Kielman, VP of Marketing
What elements of your fundraiser are most appealing to churches?
Churches have been fundraising with our kitchen knives, cooking utensils and cutlery gift sets since 1948, when our company was founded. They appreciate being able to sell kitchen products that are 100% Made in the USA, and that their supporters want (and need).
Also, the church is buying directly from the manufacturer, which means buyers get a remarkable value — and the church is able to help fund its programs.
What groups within a church have the most success selling your fundraiser?
Over 68 years, we’ve worked with about every variation of church group and cause imaginable! Usually, however, it’s either the women’s group or youth group. The causes are wide-ranging — mission trips, church camps, building funds, food pantries, Vacation Bible School, as well as Relay For Life teams, to name just a few.
What advice can you offer to churches selling your fundraiser?
Sell fundraising products that you’re proud to offer to your friends, family and co-workers. More than 145 million pieces of Rada Cutlery have been sold over the years, and your church group will benefit from that reputation for quality and value.
