52 FRESH IDEAS TO ENGAGE WITH YOUR COMMUNITY
Our team are here to support and serve your church
Our National and State Reps are here to offer guidance, resources, and ideas to help you engage with your community.
Phil Cutcliffe | QLD & NT
Aaron Pryce | WA
Garry Leech | SA
Dermot Cottuli | TAS
Josh Hammann | NSW & ACT
Cheryl Forrest | VIC
Paul Bartlett | National
Welcome to our first Community Engagement magazine!
Over the past 12 years, ACC churches have become renowned for their commitment to engaging with their local communities. Ten years ago, 62% of our churches were actively involved in community engagement; today, it’s over 93%! Well done, everyone!
We know that finding fresh ideas for engaging your community seven days a week can be challenging, or that the thought of starting a largescale program can feel overwhelming. Thanks to WA leader Aaron Pryce and Chosen Church, we now have a menu of innovative, adaptable ideas that meet community needs while building on the strengths in your local context. The best part? These ideas can be implemented by churches of any size and budget.
As you explore these ideas, remember that the most successful churches in community engagement aren’t just those with lots of programs. The churches that see the most growth and life change are those who build genuine relationships with their communities. These ideas prioritise connection and relationship over simply doing outreach.
We’d love to hear which ideas worked best for you! Please share your stories with us at acccommunityengagement.org.au by clicking the ‘Stories’ icon.
If you’re looking for further training in community engagement, we’ve partnered with Alphacrucis University College (AC) to offer the Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services. Additionally, for training your team to mobilise every day of the week, check out Mobilise Australia at mobilise.au.
We hope this magazine inspires you to engage even more deeply with your community!
Paul Bartlett | National Leader, Community Engagement
Free Oil Change Day
Offer free oil changes to single parents or people in need in your community.
Rally volunteers with automotive skills from your church or hire a local mechanic for the day. Set up a dedicated space for the service, and provide free refreshments and waiting areas for the recipients. Make sure to promote the event through local media and community groups.
This event not only provides practical help but also builds trust and goodwill with the community, showing a tangible care for their needs.
Curry Cook Off
Host a curry cooking competition at your church, inviting community members and local restaurants to participate.
Set up cooking stations or have participants bring their dishes ready to be judged. Offer prizes for various categories like ‘Best Traditional Curry’ or ‘Most Creative Curry’. Include entertainment like live music or a local band to make the event more festive. Engage local food critics or celebrities as judges to add excitement.
This event brings together different cultures and fosters community spirit through shared food experiences.
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Brainwashed Night
Host a “Brainwashed Night” where the question “Does God Really Exist, or Are We All Just Brainwashed?” is explored through a thoughtprovoking discussion.
Organise an evening event at your church and invite a knowledgeable Christian apologist to lead the discussion. Promote the event within the community through social media, flyers, and local community boards. Set up a welcoming space with comfortable seating, and have copies of Timothy Keller’s book The Reason for God available as free gifts for attendees. Encourage open dialogue and provide an opportunity for attendees to ask questions. Offer light refreshments and create a relaxed atmosphere where people feel comfortable engaging in deep discussions.
This event addresses common doubts and questions about faith, providing a platform for meaningful conversation. It helps to build community by engaging both believers and skeptics in a respectful dialogue, and it serves as an outreach opportunity to those who may not regularly attend church.
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Book Swap Storytelling
Afternoon
Organise a “Book Swap and Storytelling Afternoon” for families and book lovers in the community.
Invite community members to bring books they no longer need to swap with others. Set up a space at your church or a local park with tables where books can be displayed according to genre. During the event, arrange for local storytellers or volunteers to read stories to children and adults. Provide comfortable seating areas and light refreshments like tea, coffee, and biscuits. Promote the event through local schools, libraries, and social media to encourage participation.
A Book Swap and Storytelling Afternoon encourages reading, reduces waste through book recycling, and provides an opportunity for community bonding. It’s a low-cost way to promote literacy and foster a love for books among all ages.
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Community Cleanup Day
Organise a community clean-up event where volunteers gather to pick up litter, remove graffiti, and beautify local parks, streets, or public spaces.
Choose a date and identify areas in your community that need attention. Gather volunteers and provide them with trash bags, gloves, and basic cleaning supplies. Partner with local councils or businesses for additional support, such as waste disposal or access to cleaning equipment. Promote the event through local media, social media, and community networks. On the day, divide the volunteers into teams and assign them to different areas. After the clean-up, gather for a light meal or refreshments to celebrate the effort.
A clean community promotes a sense of pride and well-being. This event not only improves the local environment but also brings people together in a positive and productive way.
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Community Garden Project
Create a community garden to promote local food production and encourage community engagement.
Select a suitable location and plan the garden layout. Secure funding through donations or sponsorships. Prepare the land with raised garden beds or pots, and install irrigation. Organise planting days with community involvement, such as schools, nursing homes etc, providing seeds and tools. Set up a maintenance schedule and offer gardening workshops.
A community garden fosters a sense of community, provides fresh produce, and promotes sustainable living. It utilises local space productively and encourages healthy habits.
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Health Fair
Organise a health fair offering free health screenings, wellness information, and activities for the community.
Secure a venue, such as a community hall or park, and partner with local health professionals, clinics, and organisations. Arrange for a range of services such as blood pressure checks, glucose testing, and general health advice. Include wellness workshops on topics like nutrition, mental health, and exercise. Provide health-related literature and resources. Promote the event through local media, flyers, and social media to attract attendees.
A Community Health Fair provides valuable health services and information to the community, promotes healthier lifestyles, and raises awareness about local health resources.
*This should only be done in collaboration with a local healthcare organisation.
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Picnic in the Park
Host a family-friendly picnic in a local park, complete with activities for children and families.
Plan a day of fun with face painting, balloon animals, and outdoor games. Provide free food and drinks, or encourage a potluck-style picnic where everyone brings a dish to share. Promote the event through local schools, community groups, and social media. Consider including live music or a local talent show to add extra entertainment.
This event fosters community connections, provides a relaxed and enjoyable day out, and offers a welcoming environment for families and individuals to engage with your church.
Christmas Food Baskets
Assemble and distribute holiday food baskets to families in need during major holidays like Christmas or Easter.
Plan the basket contents, including non-perishable foods and holiday treats. Partner with local businesses and community members for donations. Set up a collection point at your church. Organise volunteers to assemble and decorate the baskets. Work with local social services to identify recipient families and arrange for distribution.
Holiday food baskets help alleviate food insecurity, allowing families to enjoy festive meals and strengthening community ties by showing support during special times of the year.
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Street Party
Organise a “Get to Know Your Neighbours” street party to build community connections.
Plan the event for a central, accessible location within your neighbourhood. Set up tables and chairs, and arrange for a variety of foods, including potluck-style dishes contributed by attendees. Provide entertainment such as music, games, and activities for children. Encourage local residents to bring their own special dishes or desserts to share. Use social media, flyers, and word of mouth to promote the event and invite all residents.
A street party is a great way to strengthen community bonds, foster a sense of belonging, and encourage interaction among neighbours. It provides an informal setting for people to meet, connect, and build relationships in a relaxed environment.
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Support for Night-Shift Workers
Provide care and encouragement to those working night shifts, such as hospital staff, emergency responders, and transport workers.
Prepare care packages with snacks, energy bars, coffee sachets, and encouraging notes. Organise small teams to deliver these to hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and other workplaces during late-night hours. Alternatively, set up a mobile coffee stand near a 24-hour workplace to offer free hot drinks and a friendly chat.
Night-shift workers often go unnoticed and underappreciated. This initiative shows gratitude, builds connections, and opens opportunities for deeper conversations about faith and support.
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Chocolates & Church Invites
Free Chocolate and Church Invites at Local Shops
Purchase a large quantity of small, individually wrapped chocolates. Visit local shopping centres and hand out the chocolates along with invitations to your church’s upcoming events or services. Have a friendly and approachable team to engage briefly with shoppers, offering the free chocolate as a way to brighten their day while also introducing them to your church.
This simple, low-cost outreach method creates positive, friendly interactions in the community and raises awareness of your church in a non-intrusive way.
Car Wash Fundraiser
Hold a community car-wash and raise funds for other projects.
Set up a car wash station in a highly visible area such as a church parking lot or community centre. Gather volunteers from your church or community to help wash cars. Charge a small fee per car wash, or offer it for free with a suggested donation. Promote the event through local advertisements and word-of-mouth. Consider adding extra services like interior vacuuming or window cleaning for an additional donation. Use the funds raised to support church activities or a local charity.
A car wash fundraiser is a simple and effective way to engage the community, provide a helpful service, and raise funds for a good cause. It encourages teamwork among volunteers and offers an opportunity to meet and connect with local residents.
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Art Show
Organise a local art show to showcase and celebrate the artistic talents of community members.
Set up a call for submissions from local artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, and other creatives. Arrange for a venue at your church or a community hall to display the artwork. Host an opening reception with refreshments to attract visitors and provide a platform for artists to discuss their work. Consider including interactive elements like live art demonstrations or workshops. Promote the event through local media, social media, and community bulletin boards to ensure wide visibility.
A community art show highlights local talent, provides a platform for artists to gain exposure, and fosters a sense of community through the appreciation of art.
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Study & Snacks
Invite local students to study at your church and provide free snacks, especially during exam periods or holidays.
Set up a comfortable, quiet space in your church for students to study. Provide snacks like fruit, biscuits, chips, or drinks to keep them refreshed. Promote the event at local schools or universities. Optionally, invite tutors or church members to offer homework help.
This event supports local students by offering them a safe, welcoming environment to study, while also creating connections between them and your church.
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Community Carnival
Host a Community Carnival with rides, games, food stalls, and entertainment for families and individuals of all ages.
Rent carnival rides, hire entertainment like magicians and musicians, and set up game booths with prizes. Secure a large venue, such as a park or your church grounds. Reach out to local vendors for food stalls or organise a BBQ run by volunteers. Offer ticket packages for entry or rides and promote the event heavily through social media, flyers, and partnerships with local businesses. Plan additional activities like face painting, balloon animals, and a petting zoo to draw in a larger crowd. Ensure all safety and legal requirements are met, and have first aid stations in place.
A Community Carnival provides a fun, memorable experience for the entire neighbourhood. It builds a positive relationship between the church and the local community, promotes family bonding, and can serve as a fundraiser for a cause or outreach program.
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Local History Day
Host an event celebrating the history of your local area with exhibits, talks, and interactive activities.
Coordinate with local historians, museums, and schools to gather historical materials and information. Set up exhibits featuring historical photos, artefacts, and documents at your church or a community centre. Invite speakers to give talks on local history or significant events. Organise interactive activities like reenactments, historical games, or a “history scavenger hunt” for families. Promote the event through local media and community groups to encourage attendance.
Celebrating local history fosters community pride and awareness, connects people with their heritage, and provides educational opportunities for all ages.
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Bike Repair Day
Host an event where community members can bring their bicycles for free repairs and maintenance.
Partner with local bike shops or experienced bike mechanics to offer their services pro bono. Set up a repair station at a central location, such as a park or your church’s parking lot, with tools and parts for common bike repairs. Promote the event through local social media, flyers, and community boards. Offer free safety checks and minor adjustments, and provide advice on basic bike maintenance. Encourage community members to bring their bikes and interact with the repair experts.
A Community Bike Repair Day supports sustainable transportation, helps maintain bicycles in good condition, and fosters community engagement through a shared interest in cycling.
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Movie Night Under the Stars
Host a Movie Night Under the Stars
Organise an outdoor movie screening at your church or local park. Set up a large inflatable screen and projector, along with sound equipment. Invite the community to bring their own picnic blankets and chairs. Provide popcorn, drinks, and snacks for sale or for free, and make it a family-friendly event with a classic or recent hit film. Promote the event through social media, community notice boards, and flyers. Have a backup indoor location in case of bad weather.
A movie night brings the community together for a relaxed and fun evening outdoors. It’s an easy way to connect with local families and provide a wholesome event that appeals to a wide audience.
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Storytelling Night
Host an evening where community members share their personal stories or experiences, fostering connections and understanding.
Set up a comfortable space with seating and a microphone for speakers. Invite community members to participate by sharing their stories, either through an open call or by invitation. Provide light refreshments and create a welcoming atmosphere. Promote the event through local media, social media, and community bulletins. Consider having a moderator to facilitate the evening and ensure the event runs smoothly.
A Community Storytelling Night builds connections among residents, encourages empathy and understanding, and highlights the diverse experiences within the community. It creates a platform for personal expression and strengthens community bonds.
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Craft Fair for Local Artisans
Organise a craft fair where local artisans can showcase and sell their handmade goods, such as jewellery, artwork, and crafts.
Choose a venue with ample space for booths, such as your church hall or a local park. Invite local artisans to participate by setting up booths for a fee or donation. Promote the event through social media, local newspapers, and community boards. Arrange for tables, chairs, and display areas for the artisans. Provide signage and a map of the fair to guide visitors. Offer entertainment such as live music or food stalls to attract more attendees and create a festive atmosphere.
A Craft Fair supports local artists and small businesses, encourages community involvement, and provides a unique shopping experience for residents. It helps boost the local economy and fosters a sense of community pride.
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Park Picnic & Games Day
Community Park Picnic & Games Day
Organise a casual picnic in a local park and invite families and individuals from the community. Set up a few simple games like sack races, tug-of-war, or frisbee to encourage interaction and fun. Encourage participants to bring their own picnic meals, but provide light snacks, drinks, and perhaps a few communal dishes like sandwiches or fruit platters. Promote the event through local notice boards, church announcements, and social media.
A picnic day allows the community to gather in a relaxed setting, fostering relationships and providing a day of enjoyment with little expense. It encourages fellowship and creates a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
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Cultural Day
Host a “Cultural Day” at your church to celebrate the diverse backgrounds of the community.
Organise an event that showcases different cultures through food, music, and performances. Invite community members to set up booths representing their heritage, with traditional dishes, crafts, and displays. Arrange for local performers or cultural groups to entertain and educate attendees. Provide information about each culture to encourage learning and appreciation.
A Cultural Day promotes inclusivity, understanding, and respect among diverse community members. It offers a platform for people to share their heritage and fosters a sense of unity and celebration.
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Mums & Bubs Group
Host a “Mums and Bubs” group to support new mothers and their babies through community and educational activities.
Set up a regular meeting schedule at your church or a local community space. Plan a range of activities such as baby care workshops, parenting tips, and social meet-ups. Arrange for guest speakers like lactation consultants or child psychologists to provide professional advice. Offer a welcoming space where mothers can share experiences, ask questions, and build connections. Provide light refreshments and comfortable seating. Promote the group through local community boards, social media, and parenting forums to attract new members.
A “Mums and Bubs” group creates a supportive environment for new mothers, offering both practical advice and social interaction. It helps reduce feelings of isolation, fosters community connections, and provides valuable resources for parenting.
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Charity Sports Tournament
Organise a community charity sports tournament to bring people together through friendly competition while raising funds for a local charity.
Organise a sports tournament, such as soccer, netball, or touch football, and invite local teams or community groups to participate. Charge a small entry fee, and use the proceeds to support a local charity or cause. Ensure you have referees, scorekeepers, and event organisers in place. Promote the tournament widely through social media, flyers, and partnering with local businesses. Offer prizes for the winning teams and make it a fun day with a BBQ and drinks for spectators.
A charity sports tournament not only promotes physical activity and community spirit but also raises funds for a good cause. It can attract both participants and spectators, offering a day of fun, competition, and connection.
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Comedy Night
Host a Comedy Night Event
Hire a professional comedian, ideally someone who specialises in family-friendly or clean humour. Promote the event through social media, flyers, and local radio stations to attract attendees from the broader community. Set up your church’s auditorium or rent a venue with proper seating, lighting, and sound systems. Include additional features like a snack bar or merchandise tables for extra fundraising opportunities. Sell tickets ahead of time and provide opportunities for local businesses to sponsor the event for added support.
Comedy nights are a great way to engage the community in a relaxed, enjoyable environment. They offer an opportunity for people to experience the church in a non-traditional way, encouraging them to connect socially and return for future events or services.
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Door to Door Donuts
Take Donuts Door-to-Door.
Purchase a few dozen boxes of donuts and distribute them door-todoor in your local community. Each donut comes with an invitation to attend an upcoming service or event at your church. Have volunteers engage briefly with residents, offering the free donuts as a friendly gesture.
This outreach idea fosters personal connections with local residents in a welcoming and non-threatening way, allowing people to experience the warmth and hospitality of your church.
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Dance Event
Host a Community Dance Event
Plan and host a community dance event at your church or a local venue. Decide on the theme for the dance, such as a Father/Daughter Ball, a High School Ball, or a Senior Citizens’ Dance. Organise music and a dance floor, and consider hiring a DJ or live band. Decorate the venue to match the theme and provide refreshments or snacks. Promote the event through local schools, senior centres, and community boards. Ensure the event is inclusive and accessible for all ages and abilities.
A community dance event brings people together for a fun and social activity, fostering a sense of community and providing an opportunity for people to celebrate and connect.
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Jumble Sale
Hold a Jumble Sale at your church
Host a Jumble Sale at your church or a local venue, inviting members of the community to set up stalls and sell their crafts, bric-a-brac, and other items. Promote the event through local channels and social media to attract visitors. Set up tables or booths for vendors, and arrange for some light refreshments for attendees. Collect a small fee from vendors to cover event costs, or let them keep their earnings. Consider designating a portion of the proceeds to support missions or charity.
A Jumble Sale provides a platform for local vendors to showcase their goods and encourages community engagement. It fosters a sense of connection and supports local entrepreneurship while raising funds for a good cause.
Barbecue Contest
Hold a BBQ Contest
Organise a barbecue contest where local restaurants or community members can compete by grilling up their best recipes. Set up a judging panel and allow attendees to sample the entries and vote on the best BBQ. Make it a fun community event by adding music, games for kids, and perhaps a small market with local vendors.
A BBQ contest brings the community together, celebrates local culinary talent, and offers an enjoyable social setting for families and individuals. It’s also a great way to introduce your church and connect with new people in a relaxed environment.
Marriage Conference
Host a Marriage Conference to offer couples tools and inspiration for enhancing their relationships.
Choose a theme for the conference that resonates with your community, such as “Building Stronger Marriages” or “Communicating Better.” Invite experienced speakers, such as marriage counsellors or relationship coaches, to give talks and lead discussions. Arrange for breakout sessions, workshops, and interactive activities. Set up a registration process to manage attendance and provide materials. Offer refreshments and perhaps a light meal to encourage interaction among attendees. Promote the event through local media, social networks, and church channels to attract couples from the community.
A marriage conference provides couples with valuable tools and insights to strengthen their relationships. It fosters a supportive environment where couples can learn and grow together, leading to stronger, healthier marriages within the community.
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Retirement Village Walkathon
Host a Charity Walkathon for local retirement village residents to raise funds for a cause and encourage community engagement and fitness.
Partner with a local retirement village to organise a walkathon event. Choose a safe and accessible route within or near the village grounds. Plan the event for a time that is convenient for the residents. Create a registration system and promote the event through the retirement village’s communication channels and local media. Recruit volunteers, including residents, to help with event setup, registration, and support during the walk. Provide walkers with essentials such as comfortable T-shirts, water stations, and post-walk refreshments. Recognise participants with small awards or certificates for their contribution.
A charity walkathon encourages physical activity among retirement village residents, promotes social interaction, and raises funds for a good cause. It fosters a sense of community, helps improve residents’ wellbeing, and supports a charitable cause.
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$5 Senior Prom
Host a prom for high school students with a twist—everyone must spend no more than $5 on their outfit, or create outfits from unusual materials like duct tape!
Secure a venue, decorate it in a fun and whimsical theme, and advertise the event with the $5 outfit rule. Provide snacks, drinks, and music for dancing. You could also organise competitions for the best creative outfits and award prizes to winners.
This event gives students a fun and budget-friendly opportunity to experience a prom, fostering creativity and inclusivity. It also creates a memorable experience where the focus is on fun rather than materialism.
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New Here Night
Host a “New Here” Night for new members of the community or church to connect with the congregation and leadership.
Organise a casual dinner or tea for newcomers to the area or church. Invite them to meet the pastors, staff, and key leaders, and provide them with information about the church’s activities and services. Include an introduction to the community and opportunities for involvement. Serve simple meals, coffee, and desserts, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Consider setting up a Q&A session to address any questions they might have about the church.
A “New Here” Night helps integrate new community members and fosters a sense of belonging. It also introduces them to the church’s values, activities, and leadership, making it easier for them to feel connected and get involved.
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Neighbour Care Team
A dedicated group within the church that regularly checks in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, offering friendship, prayer, and practical support.
Organise a team of volunteers to visit or call individuals who may be isolated, such as the elderly, new parents, or those recovering from illness. Provide assistance with small tasks like grocery shopping, lawn care, or transportation to appointments. Create a system for regular check-ins and encourage volunteers to build genuine relationships. Partner with local services to offer additional resources if needed.
Many people in our communities experience loneliness or struggle with daily tasks. A Neighbour Care Team provides meaningful connections, meeting both practical and emotional needs while demonstrating Christ’s love in action.
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Community Mural Project
Organise a project to create a large mural in a public space that reflects community values or local history.
Secure a wall or large outdoor space for the mural, and seek permission from property owners or local authorities if necessary. Collaborate with local artists or art students to design and paint the mural. Host community workshops to involve locals in the design process and actual painting. Arrange for paint, brushes, and other necessary materials through donations or sponsorships. Organise a launch event to reveal the completed mural and celebrate with the community.
A community mural beautifies the area, fosters a sense of pride, and provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. It also brings people together and creates a lasting symbol of community spirit.
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Summer Fan Drive
Host a “Summer Fan Drive” to collect and distribute fans to lowincome households during the hot summer months.
Start by setting up donation points at the church and partnering with local businesses to collect new or gently used fans. Promote the drive through social media, local media, and community bulletin boards to encourage donations. Work with local social services or community organisations to identify families in need. Once the fans are collected, organise a distribution day, or arrange for delivery to the recipients. Ensure that the distribution is done in a way that respects the dignity and privacy of those receiving assistance.
A Summer Fan Drive helps vulnerable individuals and families stay cool and safe during extreme heat, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses. It also demonstrates the church’s commitment to caring for the physical well-being of the community.
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WhoDunIt Mystery Dinner Theatre
Organise a who done it mystery dinner theatre event to entertain and engage the community.
Hire a professional troupe or use volunteers to perform a who done it mystery while guests enjoy a meal. You could partner with a local restaurant for catering or have a potluck-style meal. Sell tickets to raise funds for a local cause, such as a school or charity. Promote the event through social media, local flyers, and community boards.
This event provides a unique and interactive experience for attendees while also supporting local causes, creating a sense of community involvement.
Local Talent Showcase
Host an event that allows local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents to the community.
Choose a venue such as a community centre or park, and set a date for the event. Invite local artists, musicians, dancers, and other performers to participate. Arrange for a stage or performance area and necessary equipment like sound systems and lighting. Promote the event through local channels, social media, and community boards. Provide a platform for performers to sign up and organise a schedule for performances. Offer refreshments or food trucks to enhance the experience for attendees.
A Local Talent Showcase celebrates and promotes local talent, fosters community spirit, and provides a platform for artists to gain exposure. It also creates an engaging and entertaining event for the community.
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Video Game Tournament
Host a Video Game Tournament
Choose a popular video game and set up a tournament at your church or a community centre. Partner with a local video game store to handle the technical aspects if needed, such as providing gaming consoles and equipment. Promote the event through social media, flyers, and local gaming communities. On the day of the tournament, ensure there is a registration desk, organise the brackets, and provide refreshments and snacks for participants. Offer prizes for winners to increase excitement and participation.
A video game tournament attracts a wide range of participants, especially younger people, and creates a fun and competitive environment. It also offers a chance to engage with the community in a contemporary and popular way.
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Gingerbread House Competition
Host a Gingerbread House Contest
Purchase or request donations of gingerbread house kits and invite families from the community to your church for a festive building event. Participants will work together to create unique and creative gingerbread houses, and prizes can be awarded for categories like most creative, best use of candy, or most traditional. Encourage a fun, lighthearted atmosphere with Christmas music, hot chocolate, and snacks for participants.
A Gingerbread House Contest promotes family togetherness and festive fun while fostering creativity. It’s a great opportunity for the church to engage with the community in a relaxed, enjoyable setting during the holiday season.
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Pet Parade
Organise a parade where community members can showcase their pets in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Select a suitable date and route for the parade, ideally in a local park or along a community street. Encourage pet owners to register their pets to participate. Plan for a parade route, signage, and safety measures. Arrange for pet-friendly activities, such as pet costume contests, agility demonstrations, and pet care booths. Promote the event through local channels, social media, and flyers. Set up a check-in area for participants and provide refreshments or treats for pets and their owners.
A Community Pet Parade fosters community engagement, celebrates pets, and provides a fun, family-friendly event. It also raises awareness for pet adoption and animal welfare.
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Hospital Fun Day
Hire clowns, magicians, and balloon artists to perform for kids at a local children’s hospital.
Reach out to local entertainers who specialise in clowns, magic, and balloon artistry. Coordinate with the children’s hospital to schedule a date and time for the event, ensuring it fits with hospital protocols and schedules. Set up a performance area in a common room or designated space within the hospital. Ensure all entertainers have appropriate background checks and permissions from the hospital. On the day of the event, provide the performers with any necessary guidelines and support to ensure the event runs smoothly and that all safety and health protocols are followed.
This event brings joy and distraction to young patients, helping to lighten their hospital experience and offer a sense of normalcy and fun. It also provides an opportunity for the community to engage with and support the hospital in a meaningful way.
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Cooking Class
Hold a community cooking class
Partner with a local chef or cooking school to offer a series of cooking classes to the community. Choose themes or cuisines for each class, such as healthy cooking, international dishes, or baking. Set up the classes in your church kitchen or a local community centre with the necessary cooking equipment. Promote the classes through local media and community networks. Provide ingredients, recipes, and hands-on instruction during the sessions. Allow time for participants to enjoy the meals they’ve prepared together.
A community cooking class promotes healthy eating, provides educational opportunities, and encourages social interaction. It’s a practical way to engage with the community and offer valuable skills that people can use in their everyday lives.
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DIY Craft Workshop
Host a workshop where community members can create their own crafts, such as decorations, handmade cards, or simple art projects.
Secure a venue and arrange a date for the workshop. Provide a list of materials needed and source these through donations or purchase them within your budget. Invite community members to register for the workshop and promote the event locally. On the day of the event, set up tables with craft supplies, and provide step-by-step instructions or have a craft expert guide the participants. Ensure there is enough space and materials for everyone to work comfortably and encourage creativity.
A DIY Craft Workshop fosters creativity, provides a relaxing and enjoyable activity, and builds connections within the community. It offers a space for people to learn new skills, create personalised items, and enjoy a fun, hands-on experience.
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Taste of Summer Event
Host a “Taste of Summer” event featuring free ice cream and familyfriendly activities.
Arrange for several ice cream trucks or purchase a variety of ice creams to distribute for free. Set up activity stations with games, face painting, and puppet shows for kids. Invite the local fire department to attend and provide a fun water display for children to play in. Promote the event through social media, local flyers, and community announcements.
This event offers a fun, family-oriented activity that brings the community together. It provides a free treat for everyone, engages kids with various activities, and creates a lively atmosphere that strengthens community ties.
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Parents Night Out
Host a “Parents’ Night Out” to offer free childcare for local families, allowing parents to enjoy a stress-free evening.
Schedule a date and time for the event, and promote it to the community through flyers, social media, and word of mouth. Secure a safe, child-friendly space at the church or a nearby facility. Recruit volunteers, including your church’s children’s ministry team, to supervise the children and lead fun activities like games, crafts, and movies. Provide light snacks and drinks for the kids. Make sure all volunteers have current Working with Children Checks (WWCC). During the event, parents can drop off their kids for a few hours and enjoy a welldeserved break.
Offering a Parents’ Night Out gives parents a chance to recharge, while their children enjoy a fun and safe environment. It helps build relationships with families in the community and showcases the church’s support for local families.
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Fitness Fair
Host a fitness fair that offers various activities and workshops focused on health and wellness, featuring local fitness experts and organisations.
Choose a date and secure a location, such as a park or community centre. Invite local fitness instructors, gyms, and wellness practitioners to set up booths or conduct workshops. Offer a range of activities like yoga classes, fitness demos, healthy cooking demonstrations, and wellness consultations. Promote the event through local media, social media, and community flyers. Ensure there are facilities for participants to engage in activities and access to healthy snacks and refreshments.
A community fitness fair promotes healthy living and provides residents with access to valuable health and wellness resources. It encourages physical activity and offers a fun, engaging way for community members to learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
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Back to School Giveaway
Organise a large-scale giveaway of backpacks and school supplies right before the school year begins.
Partner with local businesses and schools to collect donations or purchase supplies. Set up a distribution event at your church or a community centre. Offer additional activities like face painting or a small carnival to make the event more enjoyable for kids and families. Advertise widely through social media, local schools, and community boards.
This event supports families who might struggle with the cost of school supplies, and also helps foster a sense of community and support.
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Photo Scavenger Hunt
Organise a photo scavenger hunt where participants capture images of specific local attractions or landmarks based on a provided list.
Create a list of local landmarks, attractions, or interesting spots for participants to photograph. Use social media or flyers to promote the event and encourage community members to form teams. Provide each team with a copy of the scavenger hunt list and set a deadline for when photos must be submitted. Teams take photos at each location and return them to the event organisers. Offer small prizes for the teams that complete the list first or achieve the most creative photos. You can also feature the photos in a community gallery or social media page to celebrate participation.
A photo scavenger hunt engages the community in a fun and interactive way while encouraging people to explore their surroundings. It’s an affordable event that can foster teamwork and community spirit.
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Community Playground Upgrade
Organise a project to enhance a local playground with new equipment, safety features, and aesthetic improvements.
Start by assessing the current condition of the playground and gathering feedback from the community about desired upgrades. Develop a detailed plan for the improvements, including new equipment, safety surfacing, and landscaping. Secure funding through grants, local business sponsorships, or fundraising events. Hire contractors for the installation of new equipment and perform any necessary site preparation. Organise a community event to celebrate the unveiling of the upgraded playground and encourage local families to enjoy the new facilities.
Upgrading a playground provides a safe and engaging environment for children to play, encourages outdoor activity, and enhances the overall community space. It demonstrates a commitment to improving local infrastructure and fosters community pride and involvement.
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Business Leadership Event
Host a Business Leadership Event
Invite local business leaders to speak at your church on leadership principles and practices. Plan the event for an evening or weekend, and ensure you have a suitable venue with seating and AV equipment. Promote the event to local business owners and professionals through social media, email newsletters, and community flyers. Prepare a programme including keynote speeches, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities. Consider providing refreshments and offering a small gift or token of appreciation for the speakers.
Hosting a business leadership event provides valuable insights for local professionals and entrepreneurs, enhances community engagement, and positions your church as a hub for professional development and networking.
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Every business, church, and non-profit deserves the same level of expertise as large organisations, but branding and marketing can often feel overwhelming or out of reach.
That’s why I started Grove Seven to make strategic, thoughtful design and marketing accessible to everyone, drawing on experience across agencies, companies, non-profits, and the local church. No jargon, just clear, effective branding tailored to your organisation. From photography and websites to signage and print, we handle everything a full marketing department and their outsourced agencies would, making it seamless and accessible.
It’s a privilege to partner with ACC, including Community Engagement and 1800Chaplain, to help churches and ministries create a strong, cohesive presence.
Book a free consultation to discuss how Grove Seven can serve you groveseven.com.au/acc
Amelia Founder of Grove Seven
Share Your Story
Share Your Story is an opportunity to celebrate the innovative ways that churches across our ACC movement are engaging in our communities.
Read about what other churches are doing in their communities at acccommunityengagement.org.au
Scan the QR code to share your story
Bring lasting transformation through community engagement
Undergraduate Certificate in Community Services
Do you want to learn how to engage with the strengths of your Community? How to link the assets of your church to those in your city?
The Undergraduate Certificate of Community Services equips you and your team with cultural awareness, and practical tools relevant for your context for lasting impact in your community.
Taught
by Ps Paul Bartlett
Course starts mid 2025
Course duration: 6 months
Part-time or full-time available
