15 Church Camp Fundraising Ideas That Actually Work

Every student should have the opportunity to laugh under the stars, grow in faith, and build lasting friendships at camp. Cost doesn’t have to be the reason they miss out. With the right plan, your church can raise what’s needed and even strengthen your community along the way.

So how do you cover camp fees, transportation, and scholarships without overwhelming parents or leaders? Start with simple, parent-friendly ideas that really work. Here are 15 church camp fundraising ideas to help your youth group reach camp this year

Quick Wins You Can Start This Week

Some of the best youth group fundraising strategies are fast and flexible. These “quick wins” can be launched in just a few days and bring in early momentum:

1. Envelope Wall Fundraiser

One of the simplest Christian youth fundraiser ideas involves labeling envelopes with amounts such as $5, $10, $20, or $50 and displaying them on a wall. Supporters select an envelope and donate the corresponding amount. It’s visual, fun, and easy for anyone to participate.

2. Text-to-Give

Set up a keyword text code and share it during services and small groups. Parents, grandparents, and even students themselves can give instantly.

3. Matching Gifts

Ask a few generous families or business owners to offer a donation-matching fundraiser. It doubles the impact and inspires quick giving. Many large employers offer matching donations, but small businesses often agree to support specific causes when it benefits the community.

4. Spare Change Jars

Place jars at ministry events to collect change. Then, invite students to share one sentence about why camp matters, and use it to create a sign next to the jar. Change adds up quickly when hearts are touched.

Church Fundraiser Events That Bring People Together

Fundraising doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth. Hosting church fundraiser events not only raises money but also strengthens community ties. Ideas might include:

5. Pancake Breakfast

Youth cook and serve after the Sunday service. Sell tickets in advance and accept donations on the day of the event.

6. Chili Cook-Off

Families enter their best recipes, and church members vote with their dollars. The winning chef gets bragging rights.

7. Car Wash Fundraiser (with Pre-Bookings)

Everyone loves a car wash fundraiser for church youth groups. Sell time slots ahead of time so people can plan a quick stop.

8. Dessert Auction

Ask small groups to donate cakes or pies, then hold an auction after the service. It’s one of those fundraising ideas for church youth that’s always a hit.

Service-Based Fundraisers Students Can Own

When students roll up their sleeves, it’s not just about money; it’s about discipleship.

9. Yard Workday

Create volunteer crews for mowing, raking, and small cleanup jobs. Families get chores done, and youth groups learn the value of earning money for camp.

10. Parents Night Out Fundraiser

Youth provide childcare at church with games and snacks, parents get a date night, and students raise funds for camp.

11. Pet Wash

Think car wash, but for dogs. Students wash and dry pups while owners socialize.

12. House Helpers List

Offer a menu of small jobs like organizing closets, hauling boxes, or painting fences.

Partnerships and Digital Options

Not all Christian retreat camp fundraisers happen on-site. Some of the best use community partnerships and digital tools.

13. Local Business Partners

Ask a coffee shop or restaurant to host a give-back night, where a percentage of sales will go to camp. It’s free advertising for the business and easy money for you.

14. Email + Social Drive

Post short student stories online about why camp matters. Link everything to a giving page. It’s a powerful way to show how to raise money for a church camp beyond your own congregation. Personal stories drive generosity.

15. Silent Sponsors

Invite donors to sponsor a seat on the bus, cover a counselor stipend, or provide a camp scholarship fundraising gift. Donors love knowing exactly what their money supports, and it connects their gift to something specific and meaningful.

How to Plan Your Fundraising Timeline

8–10 weeks out: Set your fundraising goal, recruit leaders, create your giving page, and schedule two events.
6 weeks out: Launch quick wins, such as the envelope wall fundraiser and text-to-give. Announce events during services.
3 weeks out: Push stories on social, confirm volunteers, and gather supplies.
Final week: Celebrate early wins, share progress, and make a last call for matching gifts.

Make Giving Simple

The easier you make it, the more people give.

Use one clear link or QR code for all giving.
Offer both cash and card options at events.
Thank donors promptly with a brief update or a photo, if possible.

Tie It Back to Discipleship

Fundraising initiatives are about more than dollars. It’s about helping students encounter Christ at camp. Invite students to share testimonies after they return from camp. Then send donors a recap of what God did for your group. When people see the spiritual fruit, they’ll be eager to help again.

Where to Start

If you’re exploring peaceful places that support youth groups year-round, some Arizona Christian camps and Christian retreat centers, such as Emmanuel Pines, are designed with leaders in mind.
Our camp and retreat programs include lodging, meals, worship spaces, and quiet trails, making it easy for you to focus on your people instead of logistics.

Retreat options

Contact the team

Because raising money is about more than sending kids to camp, it’s about sending them into a life-changing encounter with Christ.

15 Church Camp Fundraising Ideas That Actually Work