This is a great National Youth Gathering fundraiser. The purpose of this fundraiser is to encourage congregational members to “invest” in an individual youth or the group as a whole. It would also work well with other big events.
Offer “stock” in the youth ministry. People can “invest” at different levels–$10, $25, $50, etc. Each “investor” receives a “stock certificate” and “quarterly updates” on activities as the group prepares for the event and asking for regular prayer. While at the event, youth should sent each stockholder a postcard. Following the event, host a Stockholder’s Brunch or Dinner. It’s a great time for sharing, photos, memories, videos and more from the event.
Previously published at thESource, in Fundraising with Teens, and 2010 National Youth Gathering Resources. Updated for thESource in April 2012.