2. Family movie night
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $$$ Volunteers: 5–10
Most churches have a great audio/visual setup. Why not use it for showing movies? This can be a weekly event that happens all summer—or all year! If you live in a college town, a movie night followed by a discussion about its themes and characters can be an interesting way to bring people into your church.
You might be surprised by the suggested financial investment and time commitment here, but this isn’t a great idea you want to get into unless you’re willing to invest in the proper non-theatrical public performance license which can be pricey (dependent upon what kind of movies you plan on showing).
If you’re going to spring for the license, you might as well make family movie nights a regular event.
3. Super Bowl party
Time commitment: Once a year Investment: $$ Volunteers: 5–10
The Super Bowl is one of the year’s biggest events, and it can be a wonderful opportunity to get people into church—but it has to be done correctly. Most people would prefer to watch this event at home or with close friends, so there needs to be some real thought put into how you’ll attract people.
Not only will you need a commitment from your congregation to show up themselves (and invite their friends), you might want to invest in some items to raffle off. This can be done during the halftime show—which is often not something you want to associate yourself with anyway.
Most of your investment money will go into creating invitations, buying snacks and food, investing in some great raffle items (you can probably get donations or discounts from local businesses, too).
Make sure you know what the NFL expects from churches sponsoring such an event.
4. Support a senior center
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
This is another idea that’s more about investing in the community than it is about getting an immediate return on your outreach. There are a number of ways you can invest in local senior centers:
- Lead worship services
- Serve during meals
- Visit with seniors
- Stock the facility with resources like books and movies
Not only can you really minister to the seniors in your community at a time in their life when they feel cast aside, but you also get to teach your congregation how to serve others. Your outreach spills over into the lives of the center’s staff and family members of the residents.
5. Host a concert
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$$ Volunteers: 10–20
Depending on your goals, hosting a concert can be a bit of a risk. You need to ask yourself if you intend to charge for the event, take a “love offering,” or make it a free church event.
If you have local talent, you can negotiate the cost of getting them to come play. This is your best bet for holding a free event. This can be a great way to make your church a place that’s known for supporting local artists. If you want to host a more well-known artist, you’re probably going to need to make a significant commitment to pay for them.
6. Organize a block party
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–20
If your church has nice grounds, or even a good-sized parking lot, you can put on an incredible block party. Make sure there are plenty of games, food, and entertainment, and you’ve got yourself a great way to get the neighborhood connected.
You’ll probably want to invest in some flyers or invitations, go door to door around the local community, and create a Facebook event to help encourage families to attend. If your church isn’t the best location, find a couple of different families in the church and host block parties from their homes. This is a great opportunity for a larger reach.
7. Organize a community festival
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–20
A community festival is a long-term outreach opportunity that can help a church become a well-known and trusted part of the neighborhood. Many churches partner with local vendors who set up booths to share their products and services, alongside food stalls, live music, and games for kids. While it may not bring immediate results, hosting a recurring festival each year builds strong community ties and creates ongoing opportunities for church engagement.
8. Halloween alternatives
Time commitment: Depends Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–20
Many families look for safe, family-friendly activities on Halloween, making it a great opportunity for your church to serve the community. If your church prefers to avoid Halloween themes, consider hosting a harvest party with games, snacks, and candy. It’s a fun way to welcome families and connect with parents while their kids play.
Another popular option is a Trunk or Treat, where church members decorate their car trunks and hand out candy in the parking lot. These events are often well-attended and offer a simple, welcoming atmosphere—just be sure to plan well so that things stay organized and engaging for visitors.
9. Community garden
Time commitment: A year Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–30
If the church or a church member has an acre or more of garden-worthy land, you can put together a public garden. With plowing, planting, maintenance, and harvest, you’re committing to a year-long project (at least). You need someone knowledgeable to head it up and make sure you have a really good idea of what’s needed:
- Volunteers
- Tools
- Plants
- Watering system and cost
- Fencing
A well-run community garden can really pull people together, and it can also provide some food for local shelters and food pantries.
10. Art show
Time commitment: Open Investment: $ Volunteers: 1–5
Many towns have a vibrant community of artists, but the church isn’t always seen as a place that supports the arts. Hosting local art showings is a meaningful way to change that perception and build new connections.
Churches can feature rotating displays in fellowship areas or host larger events that showcase multiple artists throughout the year. These gatherings not only celebrate creativity but also create a welcoming space for people who may not otherwise engage with a church community.
11. Free lunches
Time commitment : Open Investment: $$ Volunteers: 1–5
If your church is located near local businesses or office parks, offering free lunches can be a simple and effective way to connect with working professionals in your area. Hosting a weekly barbecue in your parking lot, or even offering delivery, creates an opportunity to serve your neighbors and build new relationships.
To make the most of this church outreach effort, communicate clearly with nearby businesses. Start by reaching out to office managers, executive assistants, or HR departments, as they’re often the best point of contact for sharing the opportunity with employees.
With a little planning and consistent follow-through, a lunch outreach event can become a trusted and appreciated presence in your community.
Be sure to follow local health guidelines and consider food safety and liability coverage before preparing or distributing meals.
12. Free school supplies
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–20
Providing school supplies is a practical and meaningful way to support families in your community.
Encourage your congregation to contribute financially rather than purchasing items individually. This allows the church to purchase high-quality supplies in bulk, ensuring consistency for the students who receive them.
Once supplies are gathered, consider a few distribution options:
- Donate directly to local schools or shelters
- Partner with school staff to identify students in need
- Set up a low-cost pop-up shop at your church, allowing families to “shop” for what they need with dignity
Whichever route you choose, this outreach effort conveys care, respect, and a commitment to addressing genuine needs in your neighborhood.
13. Parents’ night out
Time commitment: Open Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
Offering a Parents’ Night Out is a simple way to serve families in your community. Open your church on a Friday or Saturday evening and offer safe, fun childcare, allowing parents to enjoy a night out. With a few adult volunteers, some responsible teens, snacks, and activities, this event can run smoothly and make a big impact.
To keep the focus on outreach, be intentional about inviting families from outside the church, not just regular attendees. Encourage church members to invite friends or neighbors and use the opportunity to connect more deeply.
It’s an opportunity to provide practical support while fostering trust and relationships with local families.
14. Mother’s morning out
Time commitment: Open Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
This is similar to the outreach idea #13, except its focus is on women’s ministry and it happens during the morning and provides mothers an opportunity to get out and get some stuff accomplished without having to drag everyone along.
With both of these events, you’ll want to make sure you have a well-defined start and stop time.
15. Raise money for a local cause
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 10–20
There are many real needs in every community, and raising money to support one of them is a powerful form of community engagement. It shows that your church is not only aware of what’s happening locally but is also willing to take action and care for others in meaningful ways.
To lead a successful fundraising effort, it’s important to plan carefully. Choose a cause your church can genuinely support, and make sure someone with experience in project management, fundraising, and communication is helping lead the way.
When done well, this kind of event can build trust, raise awareness, and strengthen your church’s role in the community.
An online donations tool like Pushpay can also be very helpful as you raise money for a local cause. Empower people to donate online or on their mobile phones at any time, regardless of whether they have cash on them or if they are able to attend a weekly service.
16. Homecoming service
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
Hosting a special service to welcome back former members can be a thoughtful and meaningful way to reconnect with them. It shows your current congregation that your church values every person who has been part of its story and creates space for past members to feel seen and included.
For this kind of event to be effective, it’s important to approach it with a spirit of grace and openness. Extend the invitation widely and focus on creating a warm, welcoming environment.
A homecoming service can offer a powerful opportunity for healing, renewed relationships, and a deeper sense of community.
17. Themed mid-week service
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
Is there a local, national, or international event that has deeply affected your city? Plan a midweek church service with themed worship, communion, and a relevant message. Many people turn to the church when they are going through a difficult or uncertain time.
These moments provide a chance to offer peace, hope, and support to those who may not attend church regularly. It’s important to consider how your church can respond with care and compassion during significant events.
If people are open to attending a service like this, they are often willing to share their contact information and return for future connection.
18. Recognition service
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
If there’s a charity, ministry, service, or business doing amazing things for your community, recognize them in a special service. Let them know you’re planning a service in their honor. With enough notice, many from the organization will attend. Maybe you can even take up a special offering for them!
This service could be for students who have led an important fundraiser or volunteered at a charity event, the staff at a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter, or a business that has developed a reputation for giving back.
19. Multi-church service
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
Look for large community service projects where it makes sense to partner with other local churches. Working together can increase your impact and build stronger relationships across congregations. These efforts could include:
- Park restoration
- City litter cleanup
- A neighborhood barbecue
- School landscaping
Partnering with other churches not only helps you do more with fewer resources, but also demonstrates what church unity can look like in action. It’s a meaningful way to serve your city while building connections and trust.
20. Multi-church community VBS
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$$ Volunteers: 20–30
Instead of hosting a typical summer Vacation Bible School (VBS) on your own, consider partnering with other churches in your area to create a larger community-wide event. By combining resources, you may be able to rent a community space or use a larger church facility to accommodate more families.
A multi-church VBS also allows smaller congregations or those with limited summer availability to take part. Sharing the planning and volunteer load makes it more manageable for everyone involved.
This type of outreach takes strong coordination and a large volunteer team, but with the right tools and planning, it can have a lasting impact on your community.
21. Community Thanksgiving event
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$ Volunteers: 5–10
Hosting a free Thanksgiving meal is a meaningful way to serve individuals and families who may not have the resources or community to celebrate the holiday. Churches can partner with local restaurants, caterers, or volunteers to prepare and serve the meal.
These events create a welcoming space for anyone in need of food or fellowship, offering not just a meal but a sense of belonging. They also open doors for new relationships with community members and local businesses.
With thoughtful planning, a Thanksgiving event can reflect hospitality, generosity, and care.
22. Host recovery groups
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 1–5
If your church has available space during the week, consider opening it to local recovery groups. These can include:
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Narcotics Anonymous
- Divorce recovery groups
- Eating disorder support groups
- AL-ANON
Providing a safe, consistent meeting place can be a lifeline for people on the path to healing. It also gives your church a meaningful way to serve the community quietly and with compassion.
Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people from diverse backgrounds ensures that your church is a safe and supportive space for anyone seeking healing and community.
Over time, participants may feel more comfortable exploring your church and attending services, simply because they already feel at home in the space.
23. Community talent shows
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$ Volunteers: 5–10
Hosting a community talent show is a fun and creative way to bring people together. Invite local performers of all ages and skill levels to participate, and ask local businesses to donate prizes or sponsor the event.
Talent shows draw more than just the participants—friends, family members, and neighbors are likely to attend, making it a great opportunity for connection. This kind of event creates a welcoming space where your church can celebrate creativity, build relationships, and strengthen community ties.
24. Community yard sale
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 10–20
A community yard sale is a simple and effective way to raise funds for a local cause while connecting with your neighbors. Invite community members to donate gently used items, and then host the sale on your church grounds with all proceeds going to a meaningful cause in your area.
This outreach creates multiple touchpoints. People engage when donating items and again when attending the event. It’s a practical way to serve others, build relationships, and show your church’s commitment to the wider community.
Be mindful that organizing a community yard sale takes a significant amount of preparation. Sorting, cleaning, and pricing donated items can take many volunteer hours, so plan ahead and make sure you have enough help to manage the workload.
25. Free car wash
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 10–20
The key to this outreach is to offer the car wash completely free, with no donations accepted. People may try to give money, but the greater impact comes from showing generosity with no strings attached. Choose a central, visible location that’s easy for the community to access.
When promoting the event, use multiple platforms. Facebook is helpful, but also consider posting on Eventbrite, Nextdoor, and local community calendars to reach a broader audience. During the event, have printed cards ready with your church location, service times, and a brief welcome message.
A free car wash like this leaves a strong impression. It shows that your church is willing to serve without asking for anything in return, which builds trust and opens the door to future relationships.
Be sure to plan for the cost of supplies like soap, buckets, and towels, and confirm access to a reliable water source at your chosen location.
26. ESL Bible studies
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 1–5
Many immigrant communities face language barriers that can make it difficult to fully participate in church life. Offering Bible studies in other languages is a meaningful way to welcome and include people who may feel overlooked or isolated.
If your church has multilingual members or connections to trusted translators, consider starting small group studies in languages spoken in your community. This could include Spanish, Vietnamese, Somali, Ukrainian, Tagalog, or others, depending on your local context.
These gatherings provide a space for spiritual growth, mutual support, and relationship-building across many cultures. They also help your church reflect the diversity of the community it serves in a way that honors people’s lived experiences.
27. Fair booth
Time commitment: One time Investment: $$ Volunteers: 10–20
Setting up a booth at a local fair or community festival is a great way to meet people where they already are. These events draw large, diverse crowds and offer a relaxed setting for conversation and connection.
Your booth can feature activities for kids, giveaways, friendly volunteers, and resources about your church. You might also include something interactive like a prayer request wall or a casual Q and A with a pastor or ministry leader.
More than just handing out flyers, a fair booth gives your church a visible, approachable presence and creates natural moments to build trust with people in your community.
28. Election Day prayer service
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 5–10
During election season, many people feel anxious, divided, or overwhelmed. Hosting a community-wide prayer service on Election Day offers a space for peace, reflection, and unity. Keep the focus on praying for wisdom, justice, and the well-being of the community and nation, without any political messaging or agendas.
Make it clear that everyone is welcome, regardless of background or beliefs. A quiet, respectful gathering like this can offer comfort, restore perspective, and remind people that faith communities are here to seek the good of all people, not just one side.
It’s a simple yet powerful way to show leadership, compassion, and hope when it is needed most.
29. Financial courses
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 1–10
Offering financial courses is a practical and compassionate way to support people in your community. Many individuals and families face financial stress due to job changes, rising costs, or debt. A course that provides tools, guidance, and encouragement can make a real difference in helping them find stability and confidence.
You don’t need to create a program from scratch. Trusted resources like Crown Financial Ministries and Financial Peace University offer ready-to-use materials that are easy to implement. Hosting a course like this shows your church’s care for the whole person and creates a welcoming environment for learning and growth.
30. Food pantry
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $$ Volunteers: 20–30
A well-run food pantry is one of the most effective ways to meet real needs in your community. Even if open just a few days a week, it can provide steady support for individuals and families facing food insecurity. It also helps your church stay aware of local challenges and build trust with neighbors through consistent care.
Most of the work involves collecting donations, managing supplies, and staffing the pantry during open hours. A pantry also creates regular opportunities for church community engagement, inviting volunteers to serve in meaningful, hands-on ways that reflect the heart of your ministry.
31. Hold a supply drive and distribute items to communities in need
Time commitment: One time Investment: $ Volunteers: 1-10
Many people in your community may be facing unmet needs, and a supply drive is a simple, thoughtful way to offer support. Those experiencing financial hardship might need help with groceries, while older or immunocompromised individuals may benefit from access to sanitation or personal care items.
A supply drive also invites participation from the entire congregation and beyond. With a low financial investment and just a few volunteers, it can create a strong sense of shared purpose while meeting practical needs in a meaningful way.
Digital church outreach ideas
More churches are embracing digital tools to stay connected with those who may not be able to attend in person. Online platforms offer new ways to reach people, build community, and extend your church’s presence beyond the building.
Here are a few creative digital outreach ideas to help your church engage with the wider community.
1. Host a virtual dinner party
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 5-10
Although some church members may not be able to get together in person, you can socialize with your community online using conferencing tools such as Zoom. A fun take on this activity is to host a dinner party.
Have members of your congregation join and invite friends who aren’t yet part of your church. To make the event more engaging, consider selecting a volunteer to “host” each party. The host can then plan the menu and share the recipes with those that RSVP so that attendees can feel like they are truly sharing the same table.
2. Hold an online class
Time commitment: Ongoing Investment: $ Volunteers: 1-5
Does a member of your church have a unique skill or special interest? One way to hold a church outreach event digitally is to host an online class. Have someone from your church volunteer to lead a free how-to seminar and invite members of the community. This can be a one-time church event or recurring if there is enough interest.
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