Fundraising can seem like such a daunting process, and I think that is largely because our society has made money such a taboo subject. So, let’s change the perspective of fundraising: you aren’t begging people for their hard-earned money; you are giving people an opportunity to be a part of changing a child’s life. This is a powerful vision, so let’s get excited about it!
There are so many different ways to fundraise, but we are going to share some ways that have been effective for us. This is meant to be a guide to help you, not to set limits on you. So if you have some other ideas, we would love to process through them with you!
There are so many different ways to fundraise, but we are going to share some ways that have been effective for us. This is meant to be a guide to help you, not to set limits on you. So if you have some other ideas, we would love to process through them with you!
Strategy
1. Pray
Jesus implores us to ask God for things (Matt. 7:11) so start by asking God to provide the finances that you need, to send people and gifts your way, and to be moving in the hearts of the people you ask. But don’t just start the process with this ask, make it a daily prayer throughout fundraising.
2. Remember who your Provider is
By praying daily for God to provide the resources, it will make it easier to remember that He is your provider (not people). So you just need to trust him.
3. Cast multiple nets
Before you start fundraising, you need a plan that includes multiple forms of fundraising. Contact us for some ideas!
4. Show gratitude
Send a handwritten thank you card to every single person who gives towards your adoption. No matter how small the gift.
5. Avoid social media fundraising until the last minute
There are constantly fundraisers happening all over social media, and you don’t want yours to get lost in the noise. So instead of always asking people to give in your social media posts, celebrate what has already been given. For example: post a picture of a stack of thank you notes that you are sending out thanking the “x” number of people who gave this past week/month or celebrate things that are happening through your other fundraising techniques. Keep people updated on the process through social media and explain what funds have been used for what and thank those who have given. As a result, people will give in response to those who have given.
6. Be generous
You cannot ask people to do something that you are not willing to do. If you are asking people to be generous with their finances, then you should also be generous. What does generosity look like? Biblically, it is money that is given above the tithe. You read that right… Giving the tithe itself is not generous, it is obedience to God. Anything that is given above the tithe is a generous offering. Knowing that you are generous with your finances should make it easier to ask people to also be generous with theirs.