Every gift matters!
As you work to increase giving don’t forget the small gift! It is easy to focus upon raising large amounts that are often needed to do the work of your church and forget that every gift counts. In fact the task for us when it comes to raising funds is to value every gift. Remember the most famous gift in all the world was the Widow’s mite.
#GivingTuesday is a chance to capture small gifts that will lead ultimately to larger gifts. My goal with all my clients is that they use this national focus on raising funds to start generosity with those that have not caught that blessing. Think about it, didn’t we all start small in our giving?
The first dollar I ever made was mowing my Uncle Bob’s yard. The next day was Sunday and my father made sure that I put a dime in the offering plate. My parents thus taught me early the value of giving to God. That dime though small was the start of a journey in giving. Through the years I have learned that you can never out give God.
With the decline of giving in America generosity has become a lost discipline. My goal is to change that. #GivingTuesday is one means towards accomplishing this.
Let me illustrate with a few examples from client churches that I am working with.
Central Baptist in Jonesboro, AR was just recognized as one of the fastest growing churches in America. We are working towards raising $500K through end of year giving. Frankly most end of year giving comes from those who have significant giving ability. Yet we wanted a way in which everyone could feel their gift mattered. The $500K is to help Central finish out a children’s area.
We have estimated that one chair will cost $25. We now have a way in which even small gifts can make a difference. For some $25 is a large amount yet with sacrifice it is doable for everyone. Buying a chair gives all a chance to feel they are making a difference.
FBC Rock Hill, SC another Baptist client is looking to use #GivingTuesday to provide new games for their youth center. While that might seem silly would you not agree that having a place teens can go to that is a safe environment is important? So providing the best atmosphere for them is crucial. Our focus is small so that we can gain gifts from those that might not normally give. The whole point is to attack new donors and then give them other opportunities by which they can give.
So as you think about your giving strategy remember that every gift counts! Find ways in which even the least of your donors can give and make a difference. It might take some time, thought and effort but it will be worth it.
Who knows there might be a little boy in your church with a dime in his pocket? Giving that dime might be the start of his journey of generosity!
Mark Brooks – The Stewardship Coach
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