Creating Remarkable Community Experiences on a Budget: A Guide for Church Leaders

Download the FREE PDF Resource for Discussion Questions to work through with your team around this topic!

As pastors, we are called to serve our communities by creating environments where people encounter God, grow in faith, and develop deep connections with one another. At Connect, we describe remarkable as this: Safe, Christ-Centered, Visually Appealing, Fun, Relational, and Relevant. 

While every ministry leader dreams of offering these events and programs that leave a lasting impact, budget constraints can often slap you in the face. However, you don’t need an enormous budget to create remarkable experiences for your church community. With a clear plan, creativity, and intentionality, you can foster rich, remarkable experiences that draw people closer to Christ and one another—without breaking the bank.

Here are five practical ways to create remarkable community experiences on a limited budget:

1. Leverage the Power of PEOPLE!

One of the greatest resources you have is the people within your community. Many individuals have talents, skills, and passions they are eager to use to serve the church. Whether it’s musicians, graphic designers, cooks, teachers, or skilled laborers, there’s a wealth of untapped potential in your church community.

How to maximize this resource:

• BE INTENTIONAL: Approach specific people with a clear ask based on their strengths. Instead of sending out a broad call for volunteers, say, "I’ve noticed you have a gift for graphic design. Would you be willing to help us create promotional material for our next event?"

• EQUIP YOUR TEAM: Ensure that volunteers feel supported and valued. Offer training if necessary, and make sure they know how their contribution is making a difference in the broader mission of the church.

• CELEBRATE LIKE CRAZY: People are more willing to volunteer when they feel appreciated. Publicly recognize volunteers during services or events, and take time to thank them personally through meaningful moments. 

2. Focus on Problems NOT Costs.

Not all events need to be flashy or expensive to be meaningful. Some of the most impactful experiences come from simple gatherings where people can meet a felt need and solve families day-to-day problems. Consider organizing moments that foster community and spiritual growth without the need for significant financial investment.

Ideas for low-cost gatherings:

• SPECIAL SMALL GROUPS: Invite families to bring food OR create meaningful moments for connection at minimal cost. Connecting people to people fuels church growth.

• WORSHIP NIGHTS: Hosting worship and prayer services outdoors or inside a unique offsite space. A few guitars and a simple sound system can create a powerful atmosphere.

• SERVICE MOMENTS: Organize unique moments at your Sunday service that surprise and celebrate people who are doing great things. Thank you videos, gifts, money for those in need! These moments will wow and bring back people wanting more. 

3. Link Arms with Outside Organizations!

Working together with other local churches or community organizations allows you to share resources, ideas, and manpower. By pooling resources or ideas, you can accomplish far more than you could alone, and you create a unified presence in your city that speaks to the love and unity of the body of Christ. People love seeing churches and organizations come together more than could imagine. 

How to do it:

• COMMON GOALS: Look for areas where your church’s mission overlaps with other churches or organizations. Whether it’s youth outreach, a joint worship night, or community service, find ways to work toward a shared vision.

• SHARE THE COST: Whether it’s renting a venue, buying supplies, or promoting an event, sharing the financial burden makes larger projects possible for smaller churches.

• EVALUATE: Each church or organization brings its strengths and experiences. Use these moments to work together to make it better the next time. You won’t believe what God will do! 

4. Use the Technology at Your Finger Tips

Technology can help amplify your efforts without adding much cost. With the rise of digital tools and social media platforms, you can reach more people, share resources, and even host virtual events—all while not leaving your phone. Tap into this! 

What should you use?

• SOCIAL MEDIA: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are free and provide excellent opportunities to connect with your congregation and the broader community. Use these platforms to promote events, share inspirational content, and engage with people throughout the week.

• FREE ONLINE RESOURCES: Consider offering digital Bible studies, devotionals, or prayer guides that people can access at their convenience. This requires minimal financial investment but has the potential to significantly deepen your congregation’s spiritual life.

• GO DIGITAL: If gathering in person is a challenge due to space or budget constraints, consider hosting virtual worship services, prayer meetings, or small groups. Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet are often free or very low-cost for small groups. Have digital follow-up resources available for every moment you produce.

5. Have a MINISTRY MINDSET! 

When your congregation catches the vision of how their giving directly impacts the church’s ability to create remarkable experiences, they are more likely to give generously and serve faithfully. Doing something without the cost in mind will help you and your church grow! 

Starting a Ministry Mindset:

• STORIES: Share testimonies of how past events and programs have transformed lives. People are more inclined to give when they see the tangible impact of their contributions.

• BE REAL: Let your people know where their money is going and how it is being used to further God’s kingdom. Transparency builds trust and encourages ongoing support. You can’t fake it. 

• BE A STEWARD: Offering teaching on biblical stewardship not only helps individuals manage their finances well, but it also fosters a culture of generosity within the church. This will let people know why it matters! 

SECRET INGREDIENT // Final Thoughts

Creating remarkable experiences for your community on a limited budget is not just about being resourceful—it’s about being faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to you. By leveraging your community’s talents, focusing on moments, collaborating with others, using digital resources effectively, and cultivating a culture of generosity, you can make a significant impact in your community without spending beyond your budget. Ask the question about your event: is this meeting a need or solving a relevant problem in people's lives?

Remember, it’s not the size of your budget that determines the success of your ministry; it’s the size of your heart for God and for people. As you continue to lead and serve with your team, God will multiply your efforts and create moments that truly transform lives. 

Let your mission or strategy inform what you do, not your budget! 

Download the FREE PDF Resource for Discussion Questions to work through with your team around this topic!

Adam Leakey is the Marketing Relations Coordinator at Connect Ministries, where he has served since 2015. He is passionate about helping churches meet new people because he believes the local church is essential for providing community and hope to unchurched individuals and families. Originally from Snellville, GA, Adam attends Athens Church with his family, where he serves as a Married Group Leader, Volunteer Coordinator, and Guest Services Volunteer. Adam is married to Jamie and they have three children: Bennett, Shephard, and Mary Kyle. Adam was the first intern at the Georgia Football Recruiting Department. Now, he enjoys attending UGA sporting events, trying new restaurants, and smoking meat outdoors.