Too Late for an End-of-Year Appeal? No!

-4 Mistakes to Avoid!-

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After studying many missionary income reports from many countries over many years, I notice a strong trend: Missionary donor income is highest in December and January.

There are exceptions, but during these two months donors seem motivated to give more than during the other 10 months.

In America, nearly 40% of all charity donations are made during these 60 days. Also, in many countries, workers receive bonuses at this time.

So…let’s be wise!

Is it too late to make end-of-year appeals? No, but act now. And please avoid these mistakes:  

1.     Silence! DEC-JAN is not the time to be quiet. You might feel like you need a relaxing break over the Christmas holiday. Hang on—do this appeal before you take a break. You’ll enjoy taking a relaxing break with more money in January. 

2.     Losing Lapsed Donors! Don’t assume that just because a partner gave last year they will give again. They voted for you once, they will vote again! But they must be asked. 

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.

3.     Deciding for them! As we review possible giving partners we often say, “Oh, they’ll never give.” Based on our vast wisdom we conclude:

a.     They can’t afford it.

b.     They will be offended.

c.     They just had a baby.

d.     They are nearing retirement.

e.     They have kids in college.

Are you psychic? Are you their secret financial planner? Do you know how God will lead them regarding your appeal? 

To deny inviting someone to give denies giving them the chance to seek God to make a stewardship decision. That is demeaning. Honor the donor by letting the donor decide.

4.     Not telling why you need the money. Too many missionaries simply say, in effect, “Send money! I’m a good cause!” That is arrogant and reveals an attitude of entitlement. 

Tell potential donors how their money will be used to accomplish Kingdom purposes. Not just because you need it.

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 in the next couple days. Make your deadline January 31 instead of December 31.