WHO ARE YOUR GIVERS?

 

            There’s talking about money, about fund-raising, about stewardship, about generosity. We talk about our folks and how we’re serving them best, our relationship with them as disciples and as stewards. Here’s another consideration. Who are they? In other words: (a) how do they give; (b) how have they given; and (c) how should they be asked?

            First-time givers – Give them information, show the impact your ministry has had. They may be new, but giving definitely implies that they think you’re doing something important. Focus on their gift and its impact!

            Inconsistent givers – Be welcoming; you may not be as welcoming as you think, both in person and virtually. A workshop I recently took talked about guests not visitors. The difference? Guests are invited and you are looking forward to being with them. Visitors are those who aren’t expecting and you may hide from. Don’t hide? Act as a good host would. Provide resources, but be welcoming to them.

            Changed givers – I am convinced that pastors of churches need to know the giving levels of their folks; not to treat them differently or roll out the red carpet for the big givers, but because the first thing affected by a life change is money. Job loss, new job, death, illness, move, children, retirement, college, etc. Any or all of those, and many others affect how much money someone has, how much is available to spend, and how much is available to give. There may be a change in their budget or there may be a change in their priorities. Maybe they have a concern about the church itself. Of course, you’re not going to send them collection letters, but you should be inquiring if everything is okay; do they need prayers or assistance, and if they increase their gift, say thank you, and ask what led them to that decision.

            Consistent givers – These are the folks that are self-motivated and most engaged. For them, generosity is an intrinsic part of their worship. Do not neglect them. Listen to them. Call them. Listen for their concerns and ideas, and offer them prayer and ministry.

            Lapsed givers – Determine what you would consider lapsed. If someone has consistently given weekly, and they haven’t given for a month, they may be lapsed. But someone that only gives once or twice a year, lapsed would mean something different. Check around and see if people have seen them; have they been at worship, at an event? Connect with them personally, not to discuss their giving, but to explore their needs.

            Top givers – Demonstrate the impact their funds have had. “Because of your gift of $10,000, we were able to ____.” Ask them about volunteering if they aren’t already. Their gift is already having a significant impact, they could personally as well.

            Did you notice that you approach each type of giver differently? It isn’t a one size fits all. Giving is important; generosity is important, but relationship is even more important. Be in relationship and be aware!