I reviewed the book Major Donor Game Plan by Patrick McLaughlin for a work project, and felt I should share it since I have many friends who are in the fundraising "game".
Great
use of 1st Chronicle 28 and Luke 14, I think it easiest to have a
biblical definition of what you are trying to do. Planning, outlining, timing and
understanding your project and what you are asking your donor is very
important.
Important
concept: a gift from the heart is given for different reasons than a gift from
the head. No more Heavenly Hinting- just like car sales men, people do not like
those that beat around the bush and give them the information you would like (the
full cost of the car).
Why
do so many churches/ pastors believe that it isn’t their job or apologize
profusely to preach about giving? People need models, and in the generation of
many people not being raised in the church coming to know Christ and becoming
some of your most active members you
have to teach them or they will not ever know. We cannot be upset about not
meeting budget when we are not guiding and showing how to make that possible. Just
a thought: the same is true from within
an organization- if we are asking for donations and giving sacrificially then
we should make sure to show our people how to give as well. I think this author hit it on the nose with
their quote on page 49: The heart is the easy conversation, but the checkbook
is the difficult one. If we sit around avoiding the question then we are
avoiding getting answers.
Plan
you work and work your plan, make sure you have all hands on deck. CEO is
really CHIEF (fundraising) Officer -important titled people want to chat with important titled people.
1st Corinthians 13 break down: we are supposed to be the living proof of God’s love, if we are not on track with what his plan for us it, then we are not on track. We are “bankrupt without love.” Include your donor in your planning (know when your times with your donors fit into your schedule with the project.
1st Corinthians 13 break down: we are supposed to be the living proof of God’s love, if we are not on track with what his plan for us it, then we are not on track. We are “bankrupt without love.” Include your donor in your planning (know when your times with your donors fit into your schedule with the project.
Solicitation
is not a dirty word, it’s an important step in making your donor feel a part,
unlike mail outs that can be easily put in the trash. Everything yells clarity
and simple. Do not apologize for sharing your heart and asking someone to come
along side you, even if the answer is no and you feel hurt but do say THANK YOU
and show much appreciation when they do. We are not in the game of cranking
numbers but the building relationships life. Take your relationships as far as
they go, not over using but balancing the power wisely.
In
conclusion, do not be scared of the asks because that’s when you will get
answers, directions and relationships. Relationships are going to take your
organization to the next step.
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