How to Solicit Donations for a Church

The church pastor can talk about the church's need for donations.

Churches rely on the financial support of their members to thrive. As a result, asking for donations is a common task for churches, and many churches have a fund raising coordinator or department that is responsible for this task. Churches can solicit donations in a number of ways, and using a variety of solicitation strategies can increase overall donations to the church's cause.

Instructions

1. Ask for donations during Sunday church service. This is the quickest way to reach the most church members and drum up donations instantly. The minister or priest can discuss the church's need for donations during the service. Then, the church ushers pass around a collection basket in which members can contribute money to the cause.

2. Send out a donation letter. If the church has a specific purpose for the donations, such as building a new youth center, a donation letter can explain the plans to build support for the fundraiser. Distribute a letter to all church members that explains the fundraising goal and how the money will be put to use. Include a donation envelope, allowing church members to send in their donations for the cause.

3. Host a fundraising event. Providing entertainment to church members is a good way to drum up donations. A pancake breakfast after church can bring in money if you serve donated food and charge a per-person ticket price. A church carnival with raffle prizes and games for kids can also bring in money for your cause.

4. Hold a tithing drive. Many churches subscribe to the theory that 10 percent of a church member's earnings should go back to the church. An annual tithing drive encourages church members to pledge an annual donation to the church. Place tithing forms in the pews during your drive. Ask church members to complete them and commit a certain annual amount to the church. Tell them that if they cannot afford to give 10 percent, they can give a smaller amount.

References

• USA Fundraising: How to Write Donation Letters
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: Tithing