Smart Congregations are Generous

Myths and Facts about giving

If people understand the dire straits of the congregation, they will feel guilty and give more.

If people understand the dire straits of the congregation, they will feel guilty and give more. People don’t give to keep the light bulbs burning. They want to support a larger purpose. Myth

When the board of trustees and minister are trusted, people are more likely to give generously.

“It is the people leading that church and those programs that make the difference. When they have confidence in those people to perform, gifts follow.” -Clif Christopher Fact

People will either contribute money or time but not both.

Research shows that financial contributions follow an investment of time. Those who give more time also give more money. Myth

During periods of economic downturn, people cannot be expected to give as much money to their faith community.

When faced with limited income, people choose charities more carefully. If a compelling case is made in support of the annual budget drive or capital campaign, people will make significant contributions. Myth

People give generously when they believe they can truly make a difference in the world.

“People want to make the world a better place to live…There is embedded in us, it seems, a desire to finish out our work on this earth with a sense that we amounted to something.” Clif Christopher Fact

In our faith communities, people are not as concerned about knowing exactly where the money is going, instead having faith that it will be spent wisely.

People want to know that their contributions are making a difference and they are interested in the facts and figures and how the money will be used. Myth

Because people do not like to talk about money, it is best to solicit financial commitments in indirect ways, such as through letters, and snail mail.

The more indirect the approach, the less money will be contributed. Personal conversations are most effective. People give to people. Myth

Serious givers are more concerned about whether you are changing lives than about your budget line items.

Serious givers are more concerned about whether you are changing lives than about your budget line items. Fiscal responsibility is expected, but serious givers will only give to organizations who know their business: To Change Lives! Fact

Generous givers feel entitled to complain loudly when things do not go their way. They may hold the congregation hostage by threatening to eliminate their financial support.

Fundraisers say: “People who give the most complain the least; those who give the least complain the most.” Myth

Why People Give Belief in the purpose/mission – people give because they want to change lives. People give to people – they have high regard for staff leaders and congregational leaders who ask Evidence of fiscal accountability – where does the money go and how does it help change lives (not buy light bulbs!)