Church Resources - Objective Measure

The Role of Community in Financial Education: Creating a Culture of Learning and Support

7 November 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Literacy, Financial Management

Community plays a big role when it comes to financial health and the ways in which people approach their finances. While money can be a personal topic, each individual’s decisions about money can have large-scale impacts and long-lasting effects. That’s why at Objective Measure, we believe that financial literacy is important to integrate into our communities. The more we as individuals know, the more we can help our communities and future generations thrive.

The Problem of Financial Illiteracy

When portions of the population do not have a solid understanding of how to navigate finances, it can lead to problems that can affect entire communities, leaving them stuck in repetitive cycles. A few consequences of financial illiteracy in communities are:

Increased debt and bankruptcy rates: People may take out loans and borrow more money than they’re able to pay back. In time, this can lead to increased debt, housing foreclosure, and more.
A wider wealth gap: Financial illiteracy tends to disproportionately affect those in lower income communities. Many times, people in these communities don’t have access to the educational opportunities or resources that those in higher income communities do. This often continues the cycle of poverty.
Uneducated future generations: People who do not learn the importance of managing money when growing up can feel unprepared and under-informed when it comes time to handle their own finances. This phenomenon can affect families and children both functionally and through modeling poor decision-making.

Financial illiteracy is influenced and enabled by a lack of education, accessible resources, and conversations about finances. We can set future generations and communities up for success by developing resources, teaching people, and making financial education accessible for all.

A Community Effort

Real change happens when everyone works together. As a leader, it may feel overwhelming to take the first steps, but by working to cultivate a supporting and open community, you are building a team of others who value this same mission. Starting conversations and getting others on board helps the work of education spread more quickly and easily throughout your surrounding communities.

Real change happens when everyone works together. As a leader, it may feel overwhelming to take the first steps, but through vulnerability and support, you can cultivate a rich space for growth. When individuals can have honest conversations with people they trust, things start to open up. Resources and education spread throughout the community and people start to move towards new behaviors and priorities.

The Importance of Ongoing Education

One important aspect of community education is providing ongoing resources. Hosting a one-time workshop or event is a helpful first step, but it’s also important to think long term. Consistent, ongoing learning opportunities offer people more chances to engage, build on their new knowledge, and delve deeper into topics of interest. This also allows time for more hesitant people to get involved and acclimated over the course of time.

Creating Accessible Resources

As a leader, you can create and provide resources for the people in your community. That might look like:

Hosting online classes or workshops: This can be a great way to get people involved in building financial literacy who may struggle with attending an in-person event or class, due to busy schedules or other reasons.
Creating free resources: Whether it’s a class, flyer, or conversation, free and low-cost offerings are a great way to make learning about finances accessible for everyone.
Teaching classes specifically for youth: Educating young people about the importance of money is a great way to get them on a solid financial path. The earlier they can learn about these topics, the earlier they can start implementing good habits into their lives and paving the way forward.

Collaboration

Everyone comes at their finances from different perspectives, life experiences, and lessons that they’ve learned. This is where collaboration is important. Start conversations with other people in your community and listen to their stories and backgrounds. Work together with different segments of your community to collect all of the topics people are interested in, so you can be sure you’re providing information that is important to them.

Growing Together

When leaders take the first steps toward change, they inspire those around them to follow. At Objective Measure, we’re here to support you in bringing financial literacy to your community. With dedication, trust, and consistency, you can cultivate a thriving community—and you can count on us as your partner in making this lasting impact.

The Ripple Effect: Why Financially Literate Leaders Create Stronger Communities

7 November 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Literacy

At Objective Measure, we believe that education around finances is key to driving change in our communities. Understanding the world of finance and investing can feel overwhelming for most people, but that’s where leaders like you can show up and make an impact. Having leaders who display financial literacy through the decisions they make with money impacts individuals and starts a ripple effect that impacts communities at large.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Being financially literate goes beyond knowing terminology and explaining financial concepts to others. Financial literacy means putting these ideas into consistent practice. People are hesitant to follow a leader who knows the concepts but doesn’t display them. True leaders inspire change in their communities by following through with what they know, building trust with individuals and leading by example.

Modeling Financial Literacy

Leaders can model financial literacy in many ways, from offering education to speaking openly about personal and organizational finances. Topics of money and finances have historically been viewed as taboo, but money is a central part of our modern world. When we sweep these subjects under the rug or restrict communication about them, it leaves individuals on their own. People make mistakes that could otherwise be avoided. By sharing openly about finances, we create a safe space for learning, plus opportunities to share, practice, and get support.

Starting the Ripple Effect

As a leader, you can be the one to start this ripple effect in your community. By changing the culture around finances, you can develop individuals in their financial literacy and nurture their confidence. Here are a few ways that you can start:

Shift your attitude: Oftentimes, the work starts internally. Are there ways you need to adjust your personal attitude around money and finances before you feel comfortable discussing this topic with others? Identify whether there is anything holding you back from having open and honest conversations, whether it’s fear of judgment or any of your own prejudices you may be holding.
Have open conversations: Next, start fostering conversations one-on-one with individuals about money. Start in your personal life and work your way into your broader community. This practice will help you get comfortable first and foremost, and as you talk to more people, it will build trust and normalize judgment-free discussions.
Lead educational workshops: Organizing workshops around topics on money and finances is another way to add value to your community. Individuals will come from a variety of backgrounds and have a variety of needs, from young adults and growing families, and people planning for retirement. By initiating opportunities for education, you’ll find out who needs what and start from a position of understanding.

The Impact Leaders Can Make

When leaders are willing to take these actionable steps, they can create real change in the communities. People will feel more confident and equipped to take control of their finances, leading them to make wiser choices that set themselves up for success. A few examples of these positive changes include:

Individual benefits: People in your community will feel less stressed, more confident, and enjoy a better quality of life. They can set themselves up for success by starting to save for the future, setting aside money for emergencies, budgeting for regular expenses, and getting curious about investing.
Impacting communities: When individuals are more confident around finances, it strengthens communities and the local economy. Financial confidence empowers people to make informed, responsible decisions and invest back into their community. As a result, businesses thrive, neighbors support one another, and poverty can even be reduced.
Displaying financial literacy to others: The ripple effect doesn’t stop with teaching a course or leading a workshop. Individuals who display financial literacy in their own lives encourage others to do the same, sending ripples into the lives of friends, family, and future generations.

A Lasting Difference

At Objective Measure, it’s our goal to help support you so that you can pour into your community. Leading by example is one of the best ways to pass along your knowledge of finances to those you care about. By starting small and building on simple steps, you can create a ripple that reaches even more people. At each step of the way, we’re here to help you make a lasting impact that can benefit you and your community.

How to Nurture Financial Focus, Empowerment, and Resilience in Your Community

10 October 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Inspiration, Financial Literacy, Financial Management

In an increasingly complex financial landscape, the role of leaders—especially pastors and community leaders—is paramount in shaping the financial literacy and resilience of their communities. At Objective Measure, we understand that empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate their financial lives is crucial for fostering resilient communities. This post explores actionable strategies leaders can implement to promote financial education, create a culture of open dialogue around money, and inspire their communities to take charge of their financial futures.

The Importance of Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is the bedrock of a financially resilient community. It goes beyond understanding the basics of budgeting and saving; it encompasses the ability to make informed financial decisions, set achievable goals, and engage actively with financial opportunities. Leaders can play a significant role in promoting financial literacy by:

Offering Financial Education: Integrating financial education into church and community programs can lay the foundation for financial literacy. Courses like Objective Measure’s Investment Essentials provide participants with essential knowledge about personal finance, investments, and money management. Courses like this can empower individuals to make informed choices that align with their goals and values.
Creating Resource Centers: Establishing resource centers within churches or community organizations can provide access to financial tools, literature, and workshops. These centers can serve as hubs for learning, where individuals can seek guidance on budgeting, saving, and investing.
Facilitating Open Conversations about Money: Money can be a taboo subject, but leaders can help normalize talking about financial matters. Hosting forums or discussion groups where community members can share their experiences and challenges can foster a supportive environment. Encouraging conversations about financial well-being helps demystify the subject and allows individuals to learn from one another.

Engaging Families in Financial Discussions

Financial resilience begins at home. Leaders can help families engage in constructive financial discussions by providing them with the tools and language they need to talk about money effectively. Here are some strategies:

Workshops on Family Finance Conversations: Organizing workshops focused on how to discuss money with family members can be invaluable. Topics could include budgeting as a family, setting financial goals together, and teaching children about money management. By equipping families with the skills to communicate about finances, leaders can foster a culture of awareness and responsibility.
Promoting Transparency: Encouraging families to share their financial goals and challenges can lead to greater accountability and support. When family members are transparent about their financial situations, they can collaborate on solutions and celebrate milestones together.

Inviting Individuals into Organizational Financial Management

As leaders, you can offer the opportunity for even more empowerment by including community members in the community’s financial management and decision-making processes. From collecting and counting offerings each week in church to planning the annual budget, there is plenty of money management to go around. Here are some ideas for how to do this effectively:

Increasing Awareness: Leaders can invite curious individuals into areas of church finance, as appropriate. Whether budgeting, fundraising, or financial planning, leaders can foster a sense of transparency and accountability by simply sharing the experience.
Volunteer Opportunities in Finance: Beyond raising awareness, seek out community participation from those who are interested. Offer roles in weekly offering management, youth group budgeting, or even in decision-making processes for major financial projects and missions. Engaging members in these ways fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship programs where experienced individuals can guide others in financial matters can be incredibly impactful. Mentors can share their experiences, provide advice, and help others navigate their financial journeys.

The Journey Towards Financial Resilience

Building financial resilience within communities is an ongoing process that requires commitment and collaboration. By fostering a culture of financial literacy, open dialogue, and shared responsibility, leaders can significantly impact the financial well-being of the individuals and families they guide.

At Objective Measure, we know that enough is not merely about accumulating wealth; it’s about empowering individuals to make their own choices and fostering a sense of security and confidence in their financial futures. By championing financial education and resources, leaders can inspire their communities to recognize that enough is closer than they think. Together, we can create environments where individuals feel equipped to thrive financially, enabled to pursue their dreams, and encouraged to contribute to their communities.

Defining ‘Enough’: How Leaders Can Give People Hope Around Money

10 October 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Inspiration, Financial Literacy

In today’s fast-paced and often uncertain financial landscape, the question of “enough” weighs heavily on the minds of community leaders, pastors, and individuals alike. At Objective Measure, we believe that understanding and defining “enough” can transform financial conversations from mere discussions about wealth accumulation to profound explorations of contentment. This shift not only empowers individuals but also aligns financial decisions with the core values and future goals of both individuals and communities.

The Concept of “Enough”

The concept of “enough” transcends numerical values; it encompasses feelings of security, satisfaction, and purpose. As leaders, our role is to help our communities navigate this complex idea by fostering conversations that focus on the personal and collective definition of financial contentment. This helps us stay aligned with the fact that enough is not a number; it’s a mindset.

By facilitating discussions that shift the focus from accumulation to alignment, we empower individuals to make informed financial choices that reflect their priorities and aspirations. When community leaders guide these conversations, they open doors to deeper understanding and connection, allowing individuals to reflect on what truly matters to them.

Leading Conversations That Matter

Effective leadership involves creating an environment where open and honest discussions about finances can thrive. Here are several strategies leaders can employ to guide their communities in exploring the idea of “enough”.

1. Create Safe Spaces for Discussion

Fostering a safe, judgment-free environment is essential for meaningful financial conversations. Encourage open dialogue by hosting workshops or group discussions that invite individuals to share their experiences and perspectives on financial security and sufficiency. By encouraging vulnerability, leaders can help participants articulate their personal definitions of “enough.”

2. Encourage Reflection on Values

Help community members connect their financial choices to their values. Questions such as, “What brings you joy?” or “What are your priorities as a family or organization?” can prompt valuable reflections. When individuals align their financial decisions with their core values, they cultivate a sense of contentment that goes beyond mere financial metrics.

3. Shift Focus from Accumulation to Alignment

Encourage individuals to consider how their financial decisions align with their long-term goals and aspirations. This perspective shift can transform the conversation from a focus on accumulating wealth to a focus on making intentional decisions that foster personal and community well-being.

4. Share Resources and Educational Opportunities

As leaders, sharing resources—like Objective Measure’s Investment Essentials Course—can equip community members with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions. This course emphasizes that financial literacy is a multi-faceted journey and that understanding the different components is critical for defining and achieving “enough.”

5. Foster a Culture of Generosity

Finally, encourage a mindset of generosity within your community. By discussing the importance of giving back and sharing resources, leaders can help individuals see that “enough” often includes the ability to support others. This perspective can enrich the community’s collective financial health and foster stronger relationships among its members.

Enough is Closer Than You Think

Community leaders play a crucial role in guiding conversations that illuminate the path toward financial empowerment. By redefining “enough” and focusing on alignment rather than accumulation, leaders can instill hope and inspire action within their communities.

Ultimately, defining “enough” is not merely about financial literacy; it’s about nurturing an environment where individuals feel empowered to embrace their financial journeys with confidence. By engaging in meaningful conversations, leaders can transform lives and foster communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Can Churches Invest in Stocks? A Practical Guide for Faith-Based Investing

17 September 2024

Annie

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Categories: Church Resources

Yes, churches can invest in stocks. Churches, like any other nonprofit organization, can use investment portfolios to grow their funds. This article will guide you through the legal implications, benefits, and strategies of stock investments for churches, ensuring they align with faith-based missions. So, then the question becomes: can churches invest in stocks effectively while adhering to their values?

Key Takeaways

Churches can invest in stocks and other financial instruments to enhance their financial portfolios while being exempt from federal income tax on gains and dividends.
A well-structured Investment Policy Statement (IPS) is essential for churches to define investment objectives, manage risks, and ensure alignment with their mission and values.
Engaging financial experts and diversifying investments helps churches navigate legal considerations, mitigate risks, and effectively support their long-term mission and community outreach efforts.

Can Churches Have Investment Accounts?

Yes, churches can have investment accounts, enabling effective fund management and financial growth. Nonprofit organizations, including churches, can invest in stocks to diversify and enhance their financial portfolios.

Churches can invest reserve funds to avoid the loss of value associated with savings accounts. Certificates of deposit (CDs) offer fixed interest rates and secure investment choices. Investment accounts and brokerage accounts in the money market are essential for strategic financial management, increasing revenue and supporting mission-related activities.

Churches are exempt from federal income tax on investment portfolio dividends and gains, substantially enhancing financial health. Well-managed investments can significantly support a church’s mission by funding various initiatives.

Benefits of Investing in Stocks for Churches

Stocks offer churches the potential for greater returns compared to traditional savings methods. Higher returns can significantly boost financial resources for mission-related activities and community outreach programs.

Diversifying a church’s financial portfolio through stocks reduces risk by spreading investments across various sectors. Diversification protects church funds from market volatility while promoting financial stability and sustainability.

Investments diversify funding sources, reducing reliance on donations (and tithes). A robust investment strategy enhances financial sustainability, ensuring support for the church’s mission and operations long term.

Legal Considerations for Church Investments

Compliance with federal and state securities laws ensures ethical fundraising and investor protection. The securities and exchange commission and state securities commissions oversee securities sales to prevent fraud. Churches must align investments with these regulations.

Violating securities laws can result in fines and potential lawsuits for churches. Church leaders must be aware of legal requirements and ensure compliance.

Church securities are not automatically exempt from registration; each case must be evaluated based on state laws and the Uniform Securities Act. Seeking legal counsel is crucial when navigating church investments.

Developing an Investment Policy Statement (IPS)

An Investment Policy Statement (IPS) outlines the investment strategy and sets clear objectives and criteria for an organization’s investments. Every church should have an IPS to manage long-term funds in line with its core values and mission.

Drafting an IPS involves defining investment objectives, desired diversity, portfolio composition, and performance measurement criteria. Assessing the church’s financial situation and mission objectives helps develop tailored investment strategies.

Regularly reviewing and updating the IPS ensures alignment with evolving goals and beliefs. Risk management processes require ongoing commitment and regular evaluation to adapt to new challenges. Reviewing the IPS every three to five years is recommended.

An IPS can be concise, sometimes just a single page, to effectively communicate investment management needs. When it comes to an Investment Policy Statement, simplicity helps maintain clarity and focus on financial goals.

Choosing the Right Investment Strategies for Churches

Selecting appropriate investment strategies is crucial for churches to achieve financial goals while aligning with their mission and values. Factors such as timeline, other revenue sources, and risk tolerance must be considered when selecting investment strategies.

Churches can explore investment strategies focusing on growth, value protection, and asset accessibility. ‘Risk-free’ investments usually yield lower returns, so realistic expectations are essential. Periodic reviews of investment strategies ensure alignment with changing circumstances and investment goals, as well as effective use of investment resources.

Flexible investment vehicles like Building Fund Certificates allow access without penalties, making them suitable for long-term financial goals. Higher balance minimums imposed by traditional brokerage firms can limit investment opportunities for smaller churches. Consulting a financial advisor helps churches make informed investment decisions.

Value-Based Investing

Value-based investing (or faith-based investing) aims to maximize returns while aligning with personal or religious values. This approach prioritizes socially responsible companies reflecting investors’ values, avoiding sectors like tobacco, gambling, or adult entertainment (as examples).

Faith-based investing promotes financial growth while ensuring alignment with religious and ethical standards. This approach reflects diverse faith traditions, helping churches uphold values while pursuing financial goals.

Diversification

Diversification involves spreading investments across various asset classes and sectors to reduce risk. This strategy manages risks associated with market volatility and economic downturns.

A well-diversified portfolio promotes balanced growth, stability, and potential returns for churches. Diversifying investments helps churches protect financial resources while pursuing long-term goals.

Long-Term Investments

Focusing on long-term investments helps churches achieve financial stability and support their mission and operations in the future.

Long-term investment strategies provide financial stability by generating consistent returns over time. These strategies often support future church initiatives and projects and require additional investment. The process involves selecting options that align with the church’s mission and financial goals. Some long-term investment options include mutual funds, bonds, and other securities offering stable returns.

Engaging Financial Experts for Church Investments

Advisors with nonprofit experience help churches avoid pitfalls and align investment strategies with their mission.

Engaging financial experts helps churches make informed investment decisions and enhance financial stability. Investment advisors specializing in nonprofits provide tailored guidance, enabling better investment choices for churches and ministries. If your organization opts to work with an advisor, do your homework and make sure they’re familiar with the laws, standards, and compliance requirements for your situation.

Risk Factors and Management

Allocating funds to strategic investments positions churches to respond to unexpected financial challenges.

Investments through Church Investors Fund are not FDIC insured and carry inherent risks. Common risks include investment fraud and market fluctuations influenced by economic conditions, market sentiment, and geopolitical issues. In these scenarios, churches can mitigate potential losses through risk avoidance, prevention, and frequent backups of critical data.

Impact of Investments on Church Mission

A well-managed investment strategy helps nonprofits achieve project funding and long-term financial sustainability.

Church investments can, for example, fund building projects and renovations for church facilities. Investments can also fund significant community outreach programs and enhance church mission efforts. Effective management of investment funds helps churches support a range of projects that align with their mission. Engaging financial experts in this process provides comprehensive investment plans that factor in the ethical implications and financial stewardship implications of the decisions.

Summary

Strategic financial management through investments can significantly enhance a church’s ability to support its mission. By understanding the types of investment accounts available, the benefits of investing in stocks, and the legal considerations, churches can make informed decisions.

Developing an Investment Policy Statement (IPS) and choosing the right investment strategies (such as value-based investing, diversification, and long-term investments) are crucial steps, and engaging financial experts and managing risks effectively can further support the church’s financial health. Ultimately, well-managed investments can provide the financial stability needed to fund important initiatives, support community outreach programs, and ensure long-term sustainability.

Leading Others to the Hope of a Financially Free Life

5 September 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Literacy

In a world where financial anxiety can often overshadow the pursuit of meaningful goals, the concept of “financial freedom” stands as a beacon of hope. But what does it truly mean to live financially free, and how you can you help your community pursue it? For many, it’s more than just having enough money—it’s about the freedom to make choices that align with personal values, dreams, and the ability to give back to the community. This journey to financial freedom is not defined by a single number in your bank account but by the confidence, resilience, and opportunities that come with it.

Financial Anxiety vs. Financial Confidence

Financial anxiety is a burden that many people carry, often fueled by uncertainty about the future or a lack of financial education. This anxiety can paralyze decision-making, and lead to missed opportunities or a constant state of stress. Pastors, and other organizational leaders, have the power to transform this narrative for their communities by fostering financial confidence through education, resources, and support.

Confidence in financial matters doesn’t come overnight; it’s built over time through learning and experience. By equipping yourself and others with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, you can replace anxiety with confidence. Imagine a community where individuals feel empowered to manage their finances effectively—this is the foundation of financial freedom.

Financial Freedom: A Journey, Not a Destination

It starts with education—understanding the basics of budgeting, saving, and investing. Leaders play a critical role in guiding their communities through this learning process, providing resources like our Investment Essentials Course to build a strong financial foundation. Education alone, however, is not enough. Experience is the next crucial step.

As individuals begin to apply what they’ve learned, they encounter real-world challenges and opportunities that shape their financial perspectives. Leaders can support this growth by encouraging active participation in financial planning and decision-making. This involvement helps to develop resilience—the ability to adapt and thrive even in the face of financial setbacks.

Supporting Your Community: Resources and Conversations

For pastors, your role goes beyond teaching—you’re also guiding and counseling your congregations; similarly, your influence extends beyond your personal financial journey. You have the opportunity to create a ripple effect, positively impacting the financial well-being of those around you. Start by facilitating meaningful conversations about money—discuss the importance of setting goals, understanding financial tools, and envisioning what “enough” might look like for each individual.

Remember though, “enough” is not a number—it’s a vision of what financial freedom enables. Whether it’s the ability to travel, retire comfortably, fund a child’s education, or contribute generously to causes that matter, the goal is to define what truly enriches life. By helping individuals articulate these goals, you empower them to take actionable steps toward financial freedom.

Providing access to educational resources, such as workshops or courses, can also make a significant difference. These tools equip individuals with the knowledge and confidence to pursue their financial goals. The Investment Essentials Course is one such resource that offers a comprehensive introduction to investing, tailored to meet the needs of those who are ready to take control of their financial future.

Living Financially Free: Beyond the Numbers

Financial freedom is not just about accumulating wealth; it’s about what you can do with it. It’s the freedom to make choices that align with your values, to take risks that lead to personal and professional growth, and to give back in ways that are meaningful to you. For some, it might mean retiring early to spend more time with family; for others, it might involve starting a business or supporting family members during a difficult season.

As a leader, you can help others see that financial freedom is attainable through a combination of education, experience, and thoughtful engagement. By shifting the focus from “How much is enough?” to “What will I do with enough?” you encourage a mindset that values purpose over accumulation.

The Opportunity for Generosity and Growth

Ultimately, living financially free opens up a world of possibilities. It’s not about having endless resources but about having the confidence and resilience to use what you have wisely. It’s about being able to give back, pursue passions, and support the people and situations that matter to you.

As you guide your community on this journey, remember that financial freedom is closer than many realize. With the right education, support, and mindset, anyone can begin to move towards a life where money is not a source of stress but a tool for achieving their most cherished goals.

8 Takeaways from Bob Merritt on Engaging Major Donors

21 August 2024

The Brand Office

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Categories: Church Resources, Financial Inspiration

At the Global Leadership Summit, a powerful discussion took place between Objective Measure’s founder, Fred Martin, and retired Eagle Brook Pastor, Bob Merritt, on a topic that’s crucial for all church leaders: engaging major donors.

At the start of the conversation, Bob inquired about Fred’s experience learning to fly planes, wondering how the lessons there might also apply to church finance and fundraising. Fred instantly jumped to the “Margin of Safety” principle – a cushion that protects you when inevitable difficulties arise. This principle is as applicable in ministry as it is in aviation: with a solid foundation, a clear vision, and a gameplan for responding to emergencies, you can avoid major catastrophes and navigate smaller challenges with confidence.

Fred’s perspective as both a benefactor and financial expert, combined with Bob’s pastoral insight, revealed several other transformative ideas and specific strategies for building meaningful relationships with those who have the capacity to give big. Here are Bob Merritt’s eight key takeaways from the conversation, which will help you effectively develop relationships and navigate conversations with major donors in your own community.

1. Build Trust Through Relationships

Every church has individuals within their community with significant financial resources. As a leader, your first responsibility is to get to know these people personally; build genuine relationships rooted in trust. Donors need to know you’re not just interested in their money but in them as people. Trust is the foundation on which all giving is built.

2. Cast a Compelling Vision

Wealthy individuals are going to give their money somewhere—whether to universities, charitable organizations, or other causes. Your job is to make a compelling case for why your mission matters most. You need to communicate that reaching people for Christ is the greatest cause and one that offers them the best return on investment. Your mission must be clear, inspiring, and focused.

3. Lead by Example

Big donors often give because they believe in the leader. They’re looking at you—evaluating your character, commitment, and capacity to lead. They want to know if you’re in it for the long haul and if you’re leading by example. As a senior pastor, you need to be the first to step up in giving, demonstrating that you’re fully invested in the mission.

4. Simplify and Clarify Your Plan

When approaching major donors, your plan needs to be clear, and the numbers must make sense. Donors appreciate clarity. Rehearse your presentation, use visuals to showcase your architectural plans, and make it easy for them to understand what you’re trying to accomplish and why. Simplicity and consistency will go a long way in earning their trust and support.

5. Appeal to Their Desire for Impact

Donors with significant wealth aren’t interested in funding something that doesn’t make a difference. They want to know their money will have a substantial impact. Align with their desire to contribute to something that truly matters and show them how their gift can be transformative within your community.

6. Present Giving Levels Without Pressure

Bob shared that he rarely asked for a specific amount when engaging potential donors. Instead, he encouraged them to pray about what level might be theirs to give at. This approach respects their autonomy and invites them into a spiritual process, making the decision more meaningful.

7. Prioritize Development

If engaging major donors isn’t a specific part of someone’s job, it’s unlikely to get done effectively. Consider hiring a development person whose sole focus is to build and maintain these critical relationships. A dedicated professional will ensure that your efforts to engage major donors are intentional and consistent.

8. Don’t Panic in the Process

Fundraising can be daunting, and there will be moments when it feels like nothing is working. Bob admitted that he wanted to quit every fundraising campaign his church ever did. But persistence is key. Fundraising can be non-linear and often, gifts come from unexpected sources. Success requires surrendering to the process and trusting that the work is worthwhile.

Engaging major donors is not about perfection; it’s about being intentional, relational, and persistent. Remember, if you don’t ask, they won’t give. Take these insights from Bob Merritt and Fred Martin to heart, and lead your church or organization toward a future of impactful generosity.