This past week I was at the annual conference of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools in Dallas. At this conference I was able to conduct two workshops: the seasons of stewardship - how the sower prepares the soil. plants seeds, waters and fertilizes, nurtures growth of seedlings, and watches God bring in the harvest.
The second workshop provided more detail on how the school can reach out and into the community through tours, music, and service. The attendees were very gracious and told me that the talk was helpful.
In particular, here is one note that underscores one of the major points. "Your words echoed our mission statement: 'To mold and shape the minds and spirits of all students to what God has intended them in Christ to be.' The focus being first on giving the blessing of God's Word and love to one another."
That is the goal of Christian fund raising or development; to help people grow in their love for the Lord through vigorous and regular blessing. Secular development is man and technique-centered; it does not have the beauty of seeing the Spirit involved in transforming hearts. What a privilege we have in our work.
Who have you blessed today?
Monday, June 25, 2012
Friday, June 1, 2012
Development is Relationship, right?
Two weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend a development workshop at a Christian college. The vice president of development spoke about the importance of relationships. The major points:
Sadly, had it not been for the venue of the meeting, this training could have been at any secular non-profit organization. The gospel, discipleship, the Bible's instruction on giving were no where to be found.
I believe that God has "raised up" Christian fund raisers to help people to connect their faith and their finances. In this way, God uses us to show His dominion and authority over all of life, including how we do our charitable giving. Biblical stewardship gives us a road map of how we are to disciple donors. It also give donors an impetus and template by which they can respond to God's blessings by returning to Him money to be used for Kingdom expansion.
- Why people don't give to an organization (they aren't asked, aren't convinced, or don't understand)
- Why we fund raisers are hesitant to ask (don't know how and fear of rejection)
- Fund raisers need a Fund Raising Plan comprised of:
- Create the case
- Have needs and objectives
- Identify potential giving sources
- Develop the plan
- Make the ask
- Important details
- Developing the "ask cycle"
- Cultivation
- Communication
Sadly, had it not been for the venue of the meeting, this training could have been at any secular non-profit organization. The gospel, discipleship, the Bible's instruction on giving were no where to be found.
I believe that God has "raised up" Christian fund raisers to help people to connect their faith and their finances. In this way, God uses us to show His dominion and authority over all of life, including how we do our charitable giving. Biblical stewardship gives us a road map of how we are to disciple donors. It also give donors an impetus and template by which they can respond to God's blessings by returning to Him money to be used for Kingdom expansion.
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