Too Late For An End Of Year/ Start Of Year Appeal? No!
FOUR THINGS TO AVOID
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After studying missionary income reports from many countries over many years, I notice that missionary support is highest in December and January.
In America, nearly 40% of all charity donations are made during these 60 days. Also, in many countries, workers receive bonuses at this time. Even if your country does not reward December giving, your mailing list friends will respond to a “Start the New Year Strongly” appeal.
Is it too late? No, but act now. And avoid these mistakes:
Silence! DEC-JAN is not the time to be quiet. Do you need a relaxing break over the Christmas holiday? Hang on—do this appeal before you take a break. You’ll enjoy a relaxing break with more money in January.
Losing Lapsed Donors! Because a partner gave last year will they give again? Many will not unless they are asked. They voted for you once, they will vote again!
Prayerfully review your giving reports for the last five years (yes five!) to find lapsed partners who gave at least once but have not given since. Renew your friendship by inviting them to give again.
Deciding for them! As we review possible giving partners we often say, “Oh, they’ll never give.” Based on our vast wisdom we conclude:
They can’t afford it.
They will be offended.
They just had a baby.
They are nearing retirement.
They have kids in college.
Are you psychic? Do you know how God will lead them?
To deny inviting someone to give denies giving them the chance to seek God to make a stewardship decision. Honor the donor by letting the donor decide.
Not telling why you need the money. Too many missionaries simply say, in effect, “Send money! I’m a good cause!” That reveals an attitude of entitlement.
Tell potential donors how their money will be used to accomplish Kingdom purposes.
Okay…Is it too late to make an end-of-year appeal? No, call it a “start-of-year” appeal to help you launch the new year fully funded. You can still send an e-mail or even a snail-mail letter. Make your deadline January 31 instead of December 31.
