Why and How to Fundraise
WHY TO FUNDRAISE
Why Should I Fundraise?
Fundraising is a great way to trust God to fulfill His promise that those who co-labor in His ministry will have their needs met. In Luke 10:4-7, Jesus teaches that those who labor in the harvest are worthy of their wages. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 9:13, Paul refers to the Old Testament pattern of how priests and Levites were supported, using this as a foundation to teach the importance of supporting those who labor in ministry.
But fundraising isn’t just about meeting your own needs! It also provides an opportunity for those who can’t go on a ministry trip to participate in the harvest and reap a blessing by sowing a financial seed. In 1 Samuel 30, David and his troops had to go into battle, while others stayed behind. When they returned victorious, verse 24 makes it clear that those who didn’t go to battle received the same reward as those who fought on the frontlines. Similarly, in Philippians 4:16-17, Paul speaks to the Philippians about the eternal rewards of giving. When they gave to his ministry, they weren’t just supporting him—they were storing up blessings for themselves in heaven.
HOW TO FUNDRAISE
You can reach out to your friends and family using a variety of methods to fundraise, including mailed letters, emails, phone calls, or text messages.
What Will I Need to Prepare?
BEFORE THE TRIP
- Name-storming: Make a list of 30-50 contacts.
- Write a detailed support message: Clearly explain your trip and its purpose.
- Create a follow-up script: Prepare how you will follow up with potential supporters.
- Prepare “How to Give” information: Make sure you have a donation link or instructions ready.
DURING THE TRIP
- Keep a trip journal: Focus on sharing “the story of one”—a personal testimony or experience.
- Take great pictures and videos: Capture the people, the environment, and your active involvement in ministry.
- Purchase a small gift for supporters (optional): A token of appreciation can be a nice gesture.
AFTER THE TRIP
- Send thank-you messages: Preferably handwritten for a personal touch.
- Share the trip’s testimony: Include a highlight of a specific story or experience that had an impact.
- Send a recap video or PowerPoint: Share photos and videos to show how the trip went and the lives impacted.
What to Do and Not Do in Your Support Message:
DO
- Be yourself!
- Keep it short & sweet—avoid using too many words.
- Talk about where you’re going and the purpose of the trip.
DON’T
- Give your entire life story.
- Sound pitiful or desperate.
- Use manipulative language.
- Make false promises or idle statements.