Awesome Auction Bids to Bless Missions

Trinity Episcopal’s Fundraiser Raises $22,000 and Inspires New Ideas for Church Fundraising

Trinity Episcopal in Wauwatosa recently hosted a highly successful fundraising event, raising over $22,000 to support mission work locally and globally. This milestone not only celebrates the hard work and dedication of the congregation but also offers inspiration for other churches seeking to expand their fundraising efforts beyond traditional bake sales. With a mix of creativity, community involvement, and strategic promotion, Trinity’s event highlights how fundraising can be impactful and enjoyable.

Celebrating Success: Over $22,000 Raised

With approximately 75 people in attendance, the event included activities for all ages, such as a costume contest, a pie-throwing auction, and trivia for both kids and adults. Trinity’s creative approach to fundraising helped attract a diverse crowd and ensured there was something fun for everyone.

Photos courtesy of Patrick McSweeny and Betsy Johnson. Featured are Barb Jermyn, Jill Paradowski, Marlene Udovich, Emcee and Auctioneer Erik Eisenmann, Xander Waites, and other event attendees!

One of the event’s highlights was a playful auction in which participants bid on chances to throw a cream pie at Rector Gary Manning. This opportunity sparked excitement and friendly competition, bringing new energy to the fundraiser. Packages ranged from $15 for a single chance to $150 for multiple tries, turning a lighthearted activity into a significant fundraising boost.

Trinity Episcopal’s team used a strategic promotional plan to reach their fundraising goal. The event was announced in Sunday bulletins, from the altar, and included in the church’s monthly newsletter and on social media. This multi-channel approach ensured that news of the event reached the congregation multiple times, a proven way to increase awareness and attendance. Trinity also utilized Vanco for electronic payments, making it easy for everyone to participate and contribute.

For churches planning similar events, the lesson is clear: promote the event through a variety of channels and reinforce the message in the weeks leading up to ensure maximum engagement. Reach beyond the congregation and ask folks to bring friends to the event for food, wine, and all-around fun.

Auction Highlights: Creative Contributions from the Congregation

One of Trinity’s event's standout features was the diverse auction items, reflecting the creativity and generosity of congregation and community members. Popular items included a week at a lakeside cottage, an apartment in Montreal, and even a stay in Naples, Florida. One item—a five-night stay in the Northwoods—led to a memorable experience for Senior Warden Patrick McSweeney and his family, who delighted in seeing loons for the first time. “My wife and I are from Ohio, where there are no loons, and we spent 20 years in Florida, which has a different type of ‘loon’ altogether! This event gave us the wonderful opportunity to experience the Northwoods and see loons for the first time,” McSweeney shared with a smile.

The auction also featured a wine pull, where guests could purchase a random bottle at a $15 or $30 price point and potentially receive a high-value wine as the labels were hidden. Activities like these added surprise and excitement, encouraging more engagement and contributions

Supporting Local and Global Missions

The funds raised will directly support Trinity’s mission work, both locally and internationally. Local beneficiaries include Kathy’s House, which provides accommodation for families of hospital patients, while global support extends to projects in Haiti. This mission-driven focus resonates deeply within the congregation, as Trinity does not have a dedicated budget line for missions, so every dollar raised is essential to sustain these outreach efforts.

Inspiration for Other Churches

Trinity Episcopal’s fundraiser shows that with a blend of creativity, community spirit, and thoughtful planning, churches can create enjoyable and impactful fundraising events. Senior Warden Patrick McSweeney encourages other churches to think outside the box: “It doesn’t have to be the ‘Price is Right’ but go in looking at what can we do, what the goal is, who you are helping, seek donations, and have fun doing it.”

By thinking beyond traditional fundraisers, involving the community, and aiming high, other churches can create events that not only raise funds but also deepen connections within their congregations and broaden their mission work.

To get ideas on some of the items bid upon, and spark ideas of your own, click the link below!