Cover Story: Faith-based Fundraising

Other considerations
Personal touch. This is a new concept for many in the church: to treat each person as an individual with unique abilities, interests and resources. Yet extending basic pastoral care to the area of giving can become normal and natural.

1. Identify people who would benefit from this ministry.
2. Nurture an honest relationship with them.
3. Understand their interests and values.
4. Research mission projects/programs that are consistent with their interests and values.
5. Invite support.
6. Say “thank you.”
7. Continue nurturing this relationship; this is a long-term ministry.

“Thank you” — the first step to the next gift. Almost ironically, the church is not good at saying “thank you.” As in many human relationships, it’s easy to forget to be grateful to those closest to us. Churches can and should use all of the usual thank-you techniques, including formal and informal notes, phone calls, visits, etc., so long as the program is systematic and intentional.