Church Fundraising Consultants
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Seeking the services of church fundraising consultants can be a wise step for congregations that feel a need for help when it comes to handling issues of growth and the financial pressures that can accompany it. Some churches feel that to pursue counsel in this area is a waste of resources. If the financial needs are not large, this may be the case. Most churches can handle smaller fundraisers such as cookbook or candy bar sales on their own. But when the need carries a bigger price tag, outside help may be in order. Capital campaigns, for example, can most likely benefit from a little professional expertise. Before hiring church fundraising consultants, congregational leadership should define specific financial goals and spiritual priorities. Hiring a consultant with the same priorities is very important. Any major fundraiser that is undertaken should be accomplished in a manner that is Biblically sound and in line with the church's doctrinal stand. Campaigns that are mishandled or incorporate pressure techniques can leave a bad taste in the mouths of church members and are therefore destined to fail. On the other hand, selecting a consultant who shares the same beliefs as the congregation can form a strong and healthy team that will yield impressive results.
Hiring church fundraising consultants can be a positive experience so long as leadership has done their homework. Before making a selection it is wise to take a look at the consulting agency's references and perhaps put in a phone call to prior clients. Churches who have utilized the agency's services in the past will be in a good position to offer valuable information on how the agency is likely to perform as well as clue a congregation in on any potential problems. Once church fundraising consultants have been hired, it is important to be completely transparent regarding all information as well as the giving and tithing patterns that the congregation has shown in the past. Any problems or scandals that a congregation may have experienced in recent years is important as well since such issues can have an impact on both growth and potential giving. Failing to disclose such details can seriously limit the potential for success as the campaign progresses. Some type of agreement or contract may also be required. In this agreement the specific responsibilities of both the agency and church leadership will usually be outlined as well as the details regarding payment and the circumstances under which the agreement may be terminated.
The benefits of hiring church fundraising consultants can be many. There are a number of issues that a congregation's leadership may not be prepared for and a professional consultant can provide valuable insight and advice regarding such issues. All too often in capital campaigns ministry areas can suffer. This is usually due to the fact that those who traditionally head up different areas of ministry may find that they are overwhelmed with the details of fundraising. Hiring church fundraising consultants can free leadership up to continue to handle important ministry concerns. In this way, the church can thrive even as the campaign gets underway. Raising money for big ticket purchases such as building renovation, land purchases, new construction or debt retirement can be extremely stressful. For many leaders the responsibilities that are being assumed can seem overwhelming. An experienced consultant can help church leadership feel more confident in the important steps that they are taking and can also help the congregation avoid common pitfalls. The Bible encourages believers to put their trust in God and bring needs and frustrations to Him. "Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah." (Psalm 62:8)
One important service that church fundraising consultants can offer is the preparation of a church needs and feasibility study. The objectivity that these professionals bring to the table can be invaluable. Information on any areas of ministry that may be lacking as well as the needs of the surrounding community that the church might be able to meet can be eye opening for many congregations. An honest evaluation of the church's realistic financial prospects can be difficult to access for those who are deeply invested in the organization. An objective consultant can help to take the guesswork out of decisions regarding what is realistically possible for a specific organization. If a building project is under contemplation there may be a variety of land use issues that will need to be evaluated. Does the church have enough land to accomplish their intended purpose? Once the new building has been completed, will there be sufficient space left to provide adequate parking? Are there any zoning issues to be considered? Is the land suitable for the type of construction that is being contemplated? Often a consultant can provide a variety of options that the congregation can choose from.
In most cases, church fundraising consultants can provide answers to a number of important questions. What are the legal ramifications of a capital campaign and how can a congregation make sure that they are in full compliance? What is the responsibility of congregational leadership as well as individual members? If outside financing is required what are the available options. Often a consulting agency can provide stewardship education opportunities as well. No matter what options a congregation might choose, the help of professional consultants can mean the difference between ultimate success and failure.
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