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50 Best fundraising ideas for youth groups and teens

Whit Hunter September 4, 2026

Youth groups and teen clubs often need extra funds for trips, camp, equipment, or community projects. The good news: teens today are generous and tech-savvy.

In fact, a recent study found that about 71% of Gen Z reported doing some kind of charitable giving. With the right approach, youth can raise lots of money and have fun doing it.

Below are 50 fundraising ideas organized by category to help you plan high-impact campaigns.

What are the best fundraisers for youth groups and teens?

The best choice combines one online campaign with a youth-led activity. Crowdfunding and peer-to-peer pages provide a central place to give. A service day, a-thon, event, or business match gives teens an active role.

Easy online fundraising ideas for youth groups

Online tools are especially powerful now – over 63% of donors prefer to give online.

1. Launch a crowdfunding campaign

Create a web page (on a platform like BetterWorld) that tells your group’s story and goal. Include photos or a short video to draw supporters. Promote the page on social media, email, and community forums.

Tips: Pick a clear goal (e.g., “$2,500 for camp”), write a simple story about why it matters, and update the page often with progress. Ask each member to share it on their networks.

2. Create individual peer-to-peer fundraising pages

Have each teen set up a personal page linked to the main cause. On these pages, they explain why they care, set individual goals, and ask friends to donate.

Supporters feel more motivated to give to someone they know, and 92% of people trust recommendations from friends.

How to run it: Use a free fundraising platform that lets you create multiple sub-pages. Teach each student to share their page link by email and social media.

3. Run a 24-hour giving challenge

Pick one day for a “Giving Day” push – for example, take part in GivingTuesday (the global giving day) or pick your own date. Get supporters to donate in a one-day burst.

Publicize it heavily on social media and via email that “for 24 hours only,” every gift will count toward the goal.

Steps: Set a clear 24-hour goal. Ask a local business or donor to match gifts (see idea #7). Use countdown posts (“Only 6 hours left!”) to build excitement. After 24 hours, thank everyone immediately.

4. Start a birthday fundraising campaign

Teens can ask friends to give to the youth group instead of giving birthday gifts. Platforms like Facebook automatically prompt users before their birthday to create a fundraiser.

Overall, Facebook and Instagram fundraisers have brought in more than $7 billion for nonprofits.

How to do it: Encourage any member with a birthday to make a page (with a parent’s help). Write a personal message (“This year I’m fundraising for our youth mission trip…”). Share the link on the birthday and follow up with thank-you notes.

5. Create a social media challenge

Use a fun challenge or contest to engage the community online. For example, teens might do a dance-off, art challenge, or “read X books” challenge and post videos.

Ask each participant to gather pledges or donations from viewers (“If I reach 10 dances in 1 hour, sponsor me!”).

Tips: Choose a simple activity (dance, run up stairs, etc.) and a catchy hashtag. Encourage participants to tag friends to keep it spreading. Offer small prizes or shout-outs to those who donate.

6. Run an online wish-list campaign

Set up a wish list of items or services your youth group needs (e.g., sports gear, art supplies, books). You can use online tools (Amazon Wish List or a dedicated site) so donors can buy and ship items directly.

Promote the list via email and social media. Provide regular updates (“15 of 50 sleeping bags funded!”).

Ideas: Include wish-list items like uniforms, trail cameras for nature programs, or games for the youth center. It lets donors give specific things, which many find motivating.

7. Launch a matching-gift challenge

Find a local business or benefactor willing to match donations up to a certain amount. Promote it as “double your impact” to attract more gifts.

You might say, “Every $10 you give becomes $20 thanks to our sponsor!”

How to set up: Contact local businesses, community leaders, or parents who might match gifts. Promote the match in all your fundraising materials. After the campaign, report back how the match multiplied your total funds.

8. Start a monthly supporter club

Encourage donors to give a small amount each month instead of one big gift. For example, a “$5 Club” or “Camp Club” where 10 people giving $5 a month adds up fast. Monthly gifts build steady income and loyalty.

Recurring gifts now make up about 28% of online fundraising revenue.

Implementation: Offer an easy way to set up automatic monthly donations (BetterWorld and many platforms do this). Thank monthly donors publicly (on your website or newsletter). Make it feel like a club: send updates or small newsletters to members to show their gift at work.

A-thon and challenge fundraisers for teens

A-thons are pledge-based events where participants get sponsors to donate for each unit of effort (mile, chapter, hour, etc.).

9. Organize a walk-a-thon

Plan a group walk or fun run where each participant collects pledges per mile or simply pays an entry fee. Choose a safe, scenic route (like a park trail) and get permission. Each walker asks friends/family to sponsor them, e.g., “$2 per mile.”

Charge a small registration fee for extras.

Steps: Pick the date/time. Have each teen set up a pledge sheet or page. Promote the event at school and online. On the day, track everyone’s laps or miles. A prize for top walkers can add fun.

10. Run a read-a-thon

Turn reading into fundraising: participants get sponsored per book or per page they read over a set period.

Set a fun theme (mystery marathon, superhero reading, etc.) and get local bookstores or authors to donate rewards for top readers.

How to hold it: Provide a reading log for participants. Encourage them to read books of interest. At the end, tally pages and announce who raised the most. Even non-readers can support the readers’ cause.

11. Host a dance-a-thon

Choose a large space (gym or community hall), play nonstop music, and let participants dance for hours. Each dancer finds sponsors who pledge per minute or hour danced, or simply charges an entry fee.

Tip: Social media can help here: share short dance clips live to attract online donations.

12. Organize a bike-a-thon

Similar to a walk-a-thon, but on bikes. Pick a route (or laps in a parking lot). Each cyclist collects pledges per mile or per lap. Teens invite friends or family to join teams.

You could add a group ride through town or around a track. Make sure to stress safety (helmets, supervision).

Idea: Get local bike shops to sponsor the event by providing safety gear or water.

13. Run a shoot-a-thon or sports challenge

Have participants collect pledges for each free throw, goal, or basket they make. This could be basketball hoops, soccer goals, or even a “golf-a-thon” of putting golf balls.

Set up a tournament or practice session where each score raises funds.

For example: During a basketball shoot-out, friends sponsor a player’s total makes. Prizes for most points can boost interest.

14. Hold a gaming marathon

Teens love video games – so use that! Organize a gaming stream marathon (on Twitch, YouTube, or in-person) where participants play games for a set time, and viewers can donate.

For example, play a popular game for 24 hours, challenge friends, and ask online viewers for small donations.

How to do it: Pick kid-friendly games. Promote the live stream link. Offer incentives (e.g., play a requested game, or do something fun onscreen when a donation goal is hit).

15. Create a screen-free challenge

Flip the usual on its head: ask teens to get sponsors to stay off screens (phones, TV, etc.) for a day or week. Since Gen Z is always connected, this challenge can raise eyebrows and funds.

Participants find donors who pledge for every hour they avoid screens.

Example: “I pledge $2 for each hour I go without my phone for a day.” Set rules (emergencies allowed). Share updates via non-screen ways (notes, call-ins).

16. Run a service-hours challenge

Encourage teens to log volunteer hours for a cause (perhaps an unrelated charity or helping elders). Sponsors give a set amount per hour of service.

How to do it: Choose a service project (help at a food bank, clean a park, etc.). Ask community members to sponsor each hour (e.g., $5 per hour). After the project, tally the hours and collect donations.

Service-based youth group fundraising ideas

Combine community service with fundraising: people often love sponsoring good deeds.

17. Organize a neighborhood cleanup for donations

Young volunteers can pick up litter in parks, streets, or around the neighborhood.

Ask local businesses or residents to sponsor each bag of trash collected or pledge an amount for the team’s effort.

Tip: Provide gloves and trash bags. Afterwards, publicize the amount cleaned and funds raised to attract more donations.

18. Offer yard work and garden help

Set up a “Rent-a-Youth” service where teens do chores like lawn mowing, raking, weeding, or planting for neighbors (for a donation). Many homeowners will pay for help.

How to run it: Create flyers or social media posts saying “Youth Group Yardwork Service.” Teens volunteer on weekends or after school. Charge a fair rate and encourage tips that go toward the group.

19. Run a car wash

A classic for a reason: people love clean cars. Park at a busy spot (a school or church parking lot, with permission) and wash cars for donations.

Charge about $10 per car as a suggested donation. You can also offer extras (vacuuming interiors) for added donations.

Setup: Bring buckets, soap, sponges, hoses, and towels. Use signs or social media to advertise. Offer the wash on a hot weekend day for maximum turnout.

20. Offer pet washing or dog walking

Similar to yard work, pet washing (or dog walking) is a helpful service. Hold a “Puppy Wash” day at a local park: owners bring their pets, and your team washes them for donations.

Or launch a dog-walking schedule where kids walk dogs for tips.

Idea: Partner with a local pet store or shelter to advertise, or provide dog treats as a bonus for owners.

21. Host a parents’ night out

Give parents a break by organizing an evening of childcare and fun for kids (movie night, games) in exchange for a donation.

Charge per child or per family. Use trusted, vetted teen volunteers to entertain younger kids with crafts, movies, and snacks.

How to do it: Set rules (age limits, sign-in sheets). Offer simple activities and a safe play area.

22. Wrap gifts during the holidays

Set up a gift-wrapping station in a busy shopping area or church lobby during the holiday season. Volunteers wrap gifts (for a suggested donation) while people shop.

Tips: Stock festive paper, ribbons, and tags. Clearly display suggested donation amounts.

23. Offer technology help for older adults

Many seniors need help with computers, smartphones, or social media. Teens can hold tech clinics or one-on-one sessions where they teach basics (email, video chat).

Charge a small fee or ask for donations.

Example: “Tech Tutoring Thursday” at the local library or senior center, with advance appointments for families and seniors.

24. Run a community recycling drive

Collect recyclables that can be turned in for cash (aluminum cans, plastic bottles). Set up drop-off points or drive around collecting from neighbors.

Teens can raise money by redeeming bottles/cans at recycling centers or by partnering with a recycling fundraiser service.

Pro tip: Before starting, research local recycling rules (some centers pay per pound). Advertise a drop-off box at church or school.

Creative fundraising events for youth groups

Get creative! Events that entertain can bring in donors and raise awareness about your cause.

25. Host a talent show

Showcase the skills of youth group members: singing, dancing, comedy, magic, etc. Sell tickets to the audience, and offer snacks or a bake sale at the event.

Competitions with prizes (like vote-by-donation) can increase donations too.

Step-by-step: Recruit performers, find a venue (school auditorium or church hall), schedule a date, and advertise. Sell tickets beforehand at a set price. Have a microphone, stage area, and maybe a panel of friendly judges (teachers or local leaders).

26. Organize a battle of the bands

If your youth group has musical talent or local young bands, host a mini-concert competition. Teams or solo performers book slots on stage.

Charge an entry fee for bands and/or tickets for listeners.

How it helps: You can sell refreshments at intermission. Prizes (like studio time or gift cards) can be sponsored by local businesses.

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27. Run a trivia night

Put the youth group’s smarts to use. Organize a trivia competition on fun topics (pop culture, sports, school subjects).

Teams pay an entry fee to play.

Tips: Keep questions family-friendly if younger participants attend. Partner with a local restaurant or bookstore for prizes. Have a student host or charismatic teacher as quizmaster.

28. Host a game night or tournament

A board-game night or e-sports tournament can bring people together. Participants donate for entry and play games like chess, video games, trivia apps, or even sports (e.g., table tennis).

Encourage a donation per game or charge an all-night pass.

Example: A youth soccer or basketball tournament can also fit here – teams register with fees and raise money through the games. Game nights work especially well in colder weather indoors.

29. Organize an outdoor movie night

Pick a popular family-friendly movie, borrow a projector and screen (or white sheet), and show the film outside at a park or school field.

Charge a small admission or sell concessions (popcorn, candy).

Safety: Get the film license if required. Advertise as a community family night, as parents will come with younger kids.

30. Run a community scavenger hunt

Set up a themed scavenger hunt around town or in your venue. Teams pay an entry fee and compete to solve clues or find items.

You can partner with local businesses to sponsor clues or donate prizes.

Implementation: Create a route and clues in advance. Each clue could lead to a business giving a stamp or token. The first team to finish wins a prize.

31. Host a youth-led art show

Have youth artists (painters, photographers, sculptors) display their work at a school or community center. Sell tickets to a gallery opening or auction off art pieces.

Alternatively, sell prints or small items.

Make it special: Theme it (e.g., local history, nature, portraits) and invite families. Offer a “pay what you wish” entry or bake sale alongside.

32. Organize a karaoke night

Rent a venue or use a community centre with sound equipment. Volunteers or guests pay a small fee to sing a song on stage (friends can sponsor their performance).

Charge an admission fee for audience members too. Provide a variety of music choices.

Extras: Offer “song of the night” contests or audience voting for funny prizes.

33. Host a themed dinner or cultural night

Plan a potluck or catered dinner around a theme (Mexican fiesta, 80s night, international dishes). Attendees buy tickets or donate at the door.

Ask members to prepare food or have each family bring a dish.

How to maximize: Pair it with silent auction baskets for extra revenue.

34. Run a youth skills clinic or workshop

Have talented teens teach others a skill (coding, photography, dance, art, cooking). Students pay a class fee to attend a short workshop led by peers or volunteers.

Details: Choose skills popular with youth (dance moves, game design, robotics). Provide supplies or ask participants to bring materials.

Food and product fundraisers for teens

Selling items or food is a classic fundraising method.

35. Hold a bake sale or bake-off

Set up tables at school or a local event with home-baked treats (cookies, cupcakes, pies). In a bake-off contest, people pay to taste or vote for the best bake.

How to increase sales: Pre-sell items, accept online orders, or pair the sale with a larger event (concert, meeting). Provide clear prices (or even suggested donation amounts).

36. Run a concession stand fundraiser

Partner with a sports event, school game, or community event and run the snack bar. Sell popcorn, hot dogs, soda, or candy.

Advice: Work with venue managers for permission. Use mobile payment options (Square, Venmo) to make buying easy. Donors prefer online or digital payments, so accept cards on-site if possible.

37. Create a youth group cookbook

Collect favorite recipes from members (meals, desserts, snacks) and compile them into a cookbook. Design and print copies, then sell pre-orders and bulk orders.

Add photos and group member bios to make it personal.

Promotion: Sell them at church, school, or online. A launch party (taste-test night) can boost interest. BetterWorld suggests a launch event and limited editions to maximize sales.

38. Sell pre-order spirit wear or merchandise

Design t-shirts, hoodies, or hats with your team’s name/logo and sell them to members, families, and fans. Take orders in advance so you don’t overprint.

Offer various sizes and designs. You could even run a design contest among youth to pick the artwork.

Tips: Use an online store (many fundraising platforms integrate merchandise). Encourage youth to wear the shirts around town for free publicity.

39. Run a holiday wreath or seasonal sale

Sell holiday items like wreaths, poinsettias, candles, or raffle off gift baskets. Advertise to friends and community via flyers or social posts.

Example: Arrange for orders ahead of a holiday season. Deliver items through your members or at a pickup event.

40. Sell student-made crafts or artwork

Encourage artistic members to make things (bracelets, paintings, ornaments, pottery). Set up a booth at events or an online store to sell these crafts.

How to do it: Host a craft workshop day where youth produce items together. Ask local craft stores to donate some materials or prizes for top sellers.

41. Partner with a restaurant for a give-back night

Work with a local restaurant or café on a night where a portion of all sales goes to your youth group. For example, 15% of all dinner receipts that night are donated.

Promote this event in advance to get families to dine there.

Plan: Call local chains or independent eateries to set a date. Promote through flyers and social media.

Community and donor-led fundraising ideas

Engage outside donors, sponsors, and alumni.

42. Host an online or silent auction

Collect donated items or services (gift baskets, art, sports tickets, classes). Then hold an auction – either online (via a platform) or in-person with bidding sheets.

Guests bid on items, and the highest bidders win. Silent auctions can fit inside other events, or you can do a stand-alone virtual auction.

Tips: Host your auction with BetterWorld for zero cost.

43. Create an envelope or giving-wall challenge

Make a visual board of envelopes labeled with donation amounts (e.g., $5, $10, $20, etc.). People pick an envelope, donate the amount, and mail it back.

How to run it: Set up the display at church or school. Include a clear list of what the money will fund (“$100 fills one pack of supplies”).

44. Run a sponsor-a-student campaign

If the group is raising money for an event like a trip, have donors sponsor individual students. Donors can choose a name and send encouragement along with their gift.

Note: Keep sponsors updated on how their sponsored student’s experience went (thank-you letters after the trip).

45. Ask local businesses to sponsor a specific need

Approach businesses with a clear “ask”: “Sponsor our $500 camp fee” or “Cover the cost of sports jerseys ($1,000).” Offer to put the sponsor’s name/logo on a T-shirt or banner.

Businesses like to help kids and get a bit of publicity.

Idea: Create sponsorship levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold) with different perks (logo in newsletter, plaque, etc.).

46. Organize an alumni or former-member giving campaign

Reach out to graduates of the youth group or older siblings who were once in the group. Alumni often feel fond memories and may be happy to give back.

Create a mailing list or social media group for alumni, and share how funds will support current youth.

Example: Offer alumni-exclusive updates or events (like an alumni barbecue) to keep them engaged long-term.

47. Run a grandparents and extended-family appeal

Families often support youth activities. Send newsletters or make calls to grandparents and relatives describing the program and inviting their support. Customize your message: “Your grandkids love youth group; help send them to camp.”

Make it personal: Include photos or stories of the youth in action.

48. Create a fund-a-need campaign for one group goal

Instead of vague giving, focus on one specific need. At an event (like an open house or auction), do a live call for funds: explain the need and ask everyone to give.

Example: If raising $1,000 for musical instruments, set that as the goal. People often give on the spot when they see a concrete result of their gift.

49. Host a community open house with a giving appeal

Invite the community to your space (church, youth center, or school) for a showcase day. Serve refreshments, have demonstrations by the youth (e.g., a brief performance or presentation), and let guests mingle.

During the event, make an appeal for donations (as simple as setting out donation boxes with a sign about your goal).

Work it: Have youth give tours or presentations about their work. At the end, a clear “please give now” moment helps.

50. Hold an online giveaway or raffle (where permitted)

You can run an online raffle or giveaway by selling virtual tickets and drawing a winner. Always check your local laws first!

Many states require raffles to be supervised by an adult and forbid online ticket sales.

Important: In California, for example, raffles must be supervised by an adult over 18 and cannot be conducted over the internet. Always follow rules: designate an adult organizer and sell tickets in person if needed.

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Importantly, BetterWorld’s free plan has a 0% platform fee and unlimited campaigns – so every dollar donors give goes to your mission.

You get features like automated thank-you emails, an easy donor database, and no hidden costs. In other words, BetterWorld helps you manage all 50 of these ideas (and more) without juggling different tools.

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FAQs

1. What is the easiest fundraiser for a youth group?

Online fundraisers tend to be easiest, since they require no venue or big setup. A simple crowdfunding campaign or Facebook birthday fundraiser can quickly reach many donors.

2. What are good fundraisers for a small group of teens?

If the group is small, focus on low-cost or online ideas: create a joint crowdfunding page, run an online giving day, or do a small bake sale.

3. How can teens raise money quickly?

Viral online efforts or matching challenges can generate funds quickly. Also, peer-to-peer campaigns (each teen reaching out to their network) multiply your outreach fast.

4. Can teens collect donations online?

Yes – but under-18 fundraisers usually need adult supervision. For instance, BetterWorld is designed for fundraising and can be set up by an adult on behalf of a youth group.