I have never been one to enjoy baking. As it turns out, not too many people enjoy my baking either. I am not a Betty Crocker prodigy, and if you are, bake your heart out. I would be happy to help with taste tests. For the rest of us non-prodigies, there are other (even better) ways to successfully raise money. Raising a few thousand dollars for your missions trip may initially seem daunting. I mean, who likes to ask other people for money? But I realized that with a defined fundraising plan, I would be able to go on trip after trip, impacting precious lives with the love of Christ.
The truth is, it does not have to be overwhelming, and I promise you can do this. As with all things, the key to doing something well is knowing how to do it. Here are seven tips to help get you started:
- DON’T WAIT! Seriously, the early bird really does catch the worm. It’s the same when raising funds. The earlier you start, the more time and options you have. Let’s face it, most fundraisers take planning and can’t be done in a few days. When you start right away, you don’t end up down to the wire (when payments are due), scrambling to come up with funds.
- PLAN AHEAD. Make a plan for the year. Plan specific fundraisers (keeping deadlines in mind) and what needs to be done each month to keep you on track. We also have a list of fundraisers for individuals and groups. (Click here to view our fundraiser packet.)
- WRITE LETTERS. This is THE BEST way to raise funds. Make a list of your family, friends and co-workers. Don’t forget doctors, dentists, hair stylists, former or current teachers, anyone and everyone you have any form of relationship with. Find their mailing addresses. If you don’t have one, send a message on Facebook or search on-line. Then send a letter sharing your plans to join Global Ventures on a missions trip. If you are having trouble writing, click here to see and/or use our sample letter. Ask a friend or family member to proof read your letter. It is also good to use appropriate grammar, because it shows people that you put effort into the work you do.
- FOLLOW-UP. After you mail out your letters, find phone numbers for these people. In a week or two, do a follow-up call. Confirm they received the letter, share from your heart about the trip and then ask. Be bold, be brave. You’re not asking for donations for a vacation in Maui, you’re asking people to donate to send the Gospel to people who have never heard – you’re just the tool taking it to them.
- FACEBOOK & ONLINE FUNDRAISING. Use our social media driven society to your advantage. Chances are you have at least 300 friends on Facebook, that’s 300 potential donors. You can also use your smart phone or video camera to create short videos sharing about your plans and how people can donate. Be sure to include a direct link to give through Global Ventures when posting. Here’s the link: globalventures.tv/give/. You can also create a personal fundraising website at gofundme.com, youcaring.com, or rally.org. It’s easy to set up. Promote it through Facebook and people can give directly through the website. (Be sure they know in order to receive a tax deduction, they will need to give directly through our Global Ventures website or mail a check.)
- WORK WHAT YOU’VE GOT. Are you an artist? Then do some paintings representing missions or the area of the world you’re traveling to and sell them on-line or set up your own art-auction fundraiser. Do what you’re good at. God gave you your skills and talents, so use them to your advantage.
- TRUST GOD. He is the one who put this desire in your heart and He is the one who will help make it happen. Trust that He’ll give you favor and success. Trust that as you take steps and put action to your faith that He will back you up. He’s faithful.
You can do this. I promise.
Awesome article!