Financial_Info

Overcoming the Financial Barrier


There are many ways to raise funds for a trip such as this. I have seen garage sales, bake sales, raffles, car washes, cook book sales, renting out young people, and many more. Many of these can make good money. However, I have found that the most efficient method is to send letters to those that you know. Simply make a list of everyone that you know (don't limit your list to just those you think might give) and write them a letter explaining the opportunity that you have and why you want to go. Share with them some of what you will be doing and ask them to be involved in investing in your ministry in Jamaica.

A suggested plan is as follows: First, have each person that needs help send out letters as described. Then, on a weekly basis, starting about two months before the trip starts, keep the body informed as to how much is still needed for the whole group. This pulls the body into the trip and helps them to take ownership. It also builds the faith of the whole body as they see God provide. This building will help others who's faith level may have been low this year to believe God next year. Funds given corporately can be divided proportionately or given to those with the greatest need.

Encourage people to call and follow up the letters rather than just send the letters and forget about it. The first call may be to just ask if they received the letter and ask if they would pray about it. Then ask, "When could I call you back for a decision?"

I have used this approach several times. I have yet to have anyone put up their deposit that was not able to go because of lack of finances.

Another idea might be to challenge people to evaluate if they are behind on their tithes and offerings. Encourage them to get caught up by helping those who are going. You might challenge people to sacrifice one meal a week to pray for the trip and give the amount of that meal to the trip. Maybe they could sacrifice a movie or a golf game. (Better yet, they have great golf courses in Jamaica - you just won't get to see them very much.)