MOOSE JAW (Qu’A) — Fundraising! What is the first emotion you experience when you hear that word? Does it strike fear in your heart? Do you get tired just thinking about it? Does a fundraiser have to be something to dread?
This summer, due to some unforeseen circumstances and expenses, the Diocese of Qu’Appelle’s Camp Harding in Cypress Hills Provincial Park was facing a deficit of about $5,000. The congregation of St. Aidan Anglican Church, Moose Jaw, recognizing the importance of this camp to all ages in our diocese, felt the call to help out.
It was mid-summer. Many people were away on holidays or involved in other summer activities. In light of this, what simp
le fundraiser could we do to support this cause?
Hosting an afternoon intergenerational “camp” in the parish to raise funds seemed appropriate. From this idea, the Sunday Sundae Camp evolved. People were invited to bring their own picnic lunches and meet in Wakamow Valley Park, following the Sunday morning worship service on Aug. 25.
The “fun” in fundraiser was the fellowship, some camp games and a campfire sing-a-long, complete with a “campfire” despite the fire ban.
The “raiser” in fundraiser was ice cream sundaes. Ice cream and a vast array of toppings were provided to one and all with encouragement to give a freewill offering for their sundae, in support of Camp Harding.
In addition to a fun afternoon, a total of $917.53 was raised for Camp Harding. At the end of the day, the question was asked, “Can we do this again next year?” Sounds like a plan!
Fundraisers don’t have to consume loads of our time and resources. This parish’s simple event raised funds to cover nearly 20 per cent of the deficit Camp Harding was facing. Missional work was done, joy was had, and the love of Christ was shared.
Stewardship can be fun as well as an expression of discipleship. Go, and do likewise. Thanks be to God!
