Making money in an explosive way helps community

Churches commonly raise money through bake sales, bazaars and spaghetti suppers. Battle Creek's First Church of the Nazarene has found an uncommon fundraiser -- selling fireworks.

The church partnered with TNT Fireworks as a way to help fund its food pantry last year, and it was so successful they're doing it again this year.

In 2009, with an estimated $4,200 raised from the TNT Fireworks tent sale, the church purchased two modular buildings for its His Hand Compassionate Ministry Food Bank. The food pantry serves those in need from surrounding communities.

"We are making a difference in the lives of people who need encouragement, urgent assistance and life education," says Jim Spohn, pastor at First Church of the Nazarene. "Our partnership with TNT Fireworks greatly aided in our efforts to expand our food pantry last year, and we are again dreaming big as to how it may impact the lives of the more than 100 children we minister in this coming year. As a result, we feel these fireworks tents have a positive effect on our community."

He said church members are praying for how the funds should best be used. One option is sending youngsters to camp.

TNT works with more than 50 fundraisers in Michigan including church groups, marching band boosters to veterans groups. They raise money selling fireworks that are legal in Michigan.

TNT advises the nonprofit organizations how best to conduct their fundraising campaigns. TNT conducts much of the preliminary work involved in setting up stands and tents at each location, lessening the labor-intensive burden on nonprofits. Part of this process is TNT University -- a required day of class -- to educate the group on what members need to know to run a successful fundraiser.

The Alabama-based TNT has worked with nonprofit groups for more than 40 years. Groups use TNT stands and tents across the country to raise more than $20 million annually.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Jim Spohn, First Church of the Nazarene