Prepare Yourself:
For some groups simply coming up with the money necessary to fund a trip becomes one of the biggest challenges. Fortunately, this task doesn’t need to be as daunting as we might think.

Costs:
In terms of International short-term trips, a service trip with Here’s Hope Ministries is one of the less costly trips for participants, but still we recognize that many people may not be able to afford to pay for a trip on their own.  For that reason, we would suggest organizing a group fund raiser or two.

Benefits:
Though we often times shy away from anything having to do with raising money, there are actually some benefits that can take place from organizing a fund raising effort that’s inviting to people without pressuring them to participate.  First, it helps create visibility for an intentional ministry effort that many people might not otherwise be aware. Other people might be encouraged to participate in future trips or want to partner with yours when they become aware of your trip. Secondly, working together as a group to help raise necessary funding can help to generate a team mindset before the trip actually takes place.  The more a team works together for a common ministry goal in the states, the more likely they will be to carry that passion with them overseas.

Ideas:
We’ve seen and heard of a number of great fundraising ideas over the years. Here’s just a sampling of some of those creative options:

1. •Father’s Day Cinnamon Roll sale
   

2. •Mother’s Day Rose Sale
   

3. •Special Missions Offering
   

4. •Missions Garage Sale
   

5. •Silent Auction
   

6. •Odd Jobs Work Day
   

7. •Craft/Bake Sale
   

8. •$20 Giveaway (give each participant $20 and six weeks to turn that money into a greater return).