Getting ready for your Discipleship School at Orama Academy is exciting, but it also takes a bit of planning. If you need to raise funds for course fees, travel, and living expenses, we’ve put together some practical ideas and saving tips to help you get there. With a little effort and creativity, fundraising can be enjoyable and a great way to prepare for your time at Orama.
Fundraising Starts with a Plan
The first step is to set a clear goal. Work out how much money you need, then plan how you will reach it. Break your goal into smaller amounts and aim to reach each one by a set date. Write down your plan so you can track your progress and stay motivated.
Simple Fundraising Ideas
Raising money can be fun and a great way to connect with your community and church. Here are some easy and effective ideas that have worked for many people.
Sausage Sizzle or BBQ
A Kiwi classic that never fails. Set up outside Bunnings, Mitre 10, your church, or a local sports ground. Ask friends to help with cooking and promotion. Make it more inviting by offering drinks or baked goods as extras.
Car Wash
An easy way to earn quick donations. Find a good spot like a church car park or local school and advertise in advance. Bring buckets, sponges, and enthusiasm. People are often happy to give a little extra when they know it’s for a good cause.
Garage Sale
Collect unwanted items from friends, family, and your church community. Set a date and make it a social event. You’ll be surprised how much you can raise in a single morning while helping others declutter.
Quiz Night
A great option for youth groups or churches. A great option for youth groups or churches. Book a hall or talk with your church to host one, plan fun quiz rounds, and charge an entry fee per team. Include raffles, auctions, or snack sales to boost funds. It’s a night of laughter that can make a real difference to your savings.
Bake Sale
Everyone loves homemade treats. Bake your favourite recipes and sell them at school, work, or church. Adding a donation box often encourages people to give more than the price tag.
Getting Creative with Support
Sometimes people want to support your journey but need to see your story first. Create a short video or post explaining your goals and what the Orama Discipleship Training Programme means to you. Share it on social media with a link to an online fundraising page.
You can also make handmade crafts, design T-shirts, or offer simple services like lawn mowing, babysitting, or cleaning. The goal is to match your time and talent with something that helps others while raising funds for your trip.
Practical Saving Tips
Alongside fundraising, saving money is just as important. Here are ten simple ways to save for your Orama journey.
Set a Clear Goal
Know exactly how much you need and when. Break it into smaller weekly or monthly goals so it feels achievable.
Create a Budget
Write down what you earn and what you spend. Look for things to cut back on such as takeaway coffee, streaming subscriptions, or impulse buys.
Open a Separate Account
Keep your Orama Academy savings separate so you’re not tempted to use it. Seeing the balance grow helps you stay focused.
Eat Smart
Plan meals, cook at home, and make use of leftovers. Simple home-cooked meals can save a lot.
Share Your Goal
Tell family, friends, and your church what you’re saving for. People often want to help when they see your dedication.
Match Your Savings
If someone donates to your fund, try to save the same amount yourself. It shows ownership and commitment.
Track Your Progress
Keep a record of how much you’ve raised and saved. Celebrate milestones along the way to stay encouraged.
Trust God and Take Action
Raising money for your Orama Academy Discipleship Training Programme is as much about faith and trusting God as it is about planning and taking action. Take small steps, stay consistent, and trust in God that as you put effort in, opportunities will open up. Each act of service and sacrifice brings you closer to your goal and prepares your heart for what’s ahead on the island.
