Introduction

 Mission trips often involve some sort of fund raising. The following is designed to help you in your fund raising efforts.  But before we begin with the details, one of the most important issues is the attitude with which you approach this important task. Do you think, "I have to raise some money" or do you think, "This is an opportunity for me to speak of God's mission and vision and give them this opportunity to participate in what God is doing"? The spiritual attitude you take toward this task will reap important rewards.

Here are some ideas and resources which will hopefully be helpful to you:

  1. Prayer is foundational to your efforts. In your daily prayers, seek the Lord as the source of your finances. 
  2.  Begin by making a list of churches and individuals you can approach with your vision and mission. Here are some possibilities

·         Your home church missions committee or Council

·         Churches that you have attended in the past

·         Your family members, both immediate and more distant

·         Friends from your work

·         Friends from the churches listed above

·         Friends involved in Christian organizations that you have been involved with

·         Neighbors and other acquaintances outside your normal church circles

·         Individuals that the Lord brings to your mind outside of the above!

 

3.  Tailor your presentation to the individuals you are approaching.

·         Make your presentation as personal as possible.
 
·         Meeting personally with people is often the most productive. Begin by deciding how much you want to ask of each person.
 
·         Don’t be afraid to ask for larger gifts.
 
·         Phone calls, followed by a letter with a response card and envelope, are often very helpful.
 
·         Letters, as personal as possible, are another positive method of contacting donors. Include information about the trip and your financial needs. Each letter should also have a response card and an envelop. Sometimes it is also helpful to follow up the letters with a phone call.
 
·         Don’t be afraid to ask your church for financial help. Some churches may make donation from their general fund or mission fund. Others may allow you to make a presentation in the worship service.
 
 

 
Prayer Missions International