Active Faith Action

An Insight into the Alarming Decline in Church Attendance

Statistics and data can either scare you to the point of hiding your head in the sand and waiting for the next brick to fall or motivate you to take Active Faith Action to fulfill your respective missions.

Case in point…..Church attendance is declining in America at an alarming rate! A Gallup poll conducted in March of 2012 http://www.gallup.com/poll/153479/Mississippi-Religious-State.aspx, found only 40% of ALL Americans listed themselves as religious with Mississippi being the most religious at 59%, while New York and Rhode Island tied for least religious at 32%; Indiana was identified as “very religious” at 45%.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Vanderburgh County’s current population is 180,305. Using these statistics, 81,137 Vanderburgh County residents consider themselves to be religious; 99,168 do not. “One-Third or 27,046 people, who consider themselves religious, do not regularly attend a worship service,” states John Shook, Ph.D., Director of Education and Senior Research Fellow, Center for Inquiry, in his article Church-Goers Now A Minority in America, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-shook-phd/churchgoers-now-a-minorit_b_1537108.html. This translates to a mere 54,091 people (or an average 135 people per church) who regularly attend services in Vanderburgh County.

So, what’s the deal? Why the decline? Most importantly, what can be done?

Congregational growth and addressing decreased revenues are among the two top issues facing church leaders today. Although individual giving, traditionally has surpassed other charitable giving methods and statistically is still listed as such, reality speaks volumes….and quite frankly, statistics do not pay the electric bill.

Today’s, teeter-totter, economy has drastically affected individual giving patterns. Although, the economy shows signs of recovery, many people continue to struggle financially. Some are struggling as a lingering result of the turbulent past economic downturn, others are experiencing lay-offs, which seem to be on the rise again and many individuals, who have managed to secure employment, are now among those listed as “underemployed.”

It is imperative to recognize that 10% of 0 is 0. As more and more Americans find themselves working two, and in many cases, three jobs, individual donations and volunteer efforts have a tendency to decrease. Therefore, the question remains, as a church, do you sit around and wait for the next brick to fall or pursue Active Faith Action by taking a hard look at what is working and, most importantly, what isn’t?

1. Identify strengths, weaknesses and goals.

2. Outline all of the specifics that apply to services, operating expenses, activities, outreach, and in-reach programs.

3. Define details of each of the above (number of services, average attendance, responses, participation) and associated outgoing expenses.

4. List funding revenue methods utilized: Individual donations, distinctive campaigns, fundraisers, grants and direct mail pleas. Once revenue methods have been categorized, look for ways to incorporate funding resource methods not currently in place.

5. Review the organizations current approach for attracting visitors and be willing to revise if results are not achieved.

First and foremost, collectively, seek God and pray for direction as you begin to apply and incorporate a variety of funding resource methods while increasing, not decreasing, overall outreach programs that benefit the community.  God desires for His message to be shared, His love to showered and His compassion to be an example.  

Nostalgia....Tomorrows Yesterday

I have finally arrived at the age where I can reflect back on “The Good ‘ol Days”.  How far back I travel depends upon the day.  When I reminisce about growing up in Evansville, I remember…..(Insert fuzzy cloud and 70’s music fade in):

• Lloyd, was the name of our Mayor; Division Street connected east to west travel
• Sears was downtown
• Washington Square Mall was built
• Drive-ins were common
• Lockyear was a Business College
• High School curriculum consisted of two lanes (business and college)
• Burger Chef (and Jeff)
• Leo’s Hamburgers
• Rosedale Pharmacy and Market
• Ayr-Way
• Shopper’s Fair
• Weinbach Shopping Center
• Red Goose Shoes and the Golden Egg
• In libraries, the Dewey Decimal System identified book titles
• 8-Track Tapes
• Beta Video Tapes
• Soft Drinks in Glass Bottles (that you returned or paid a deposit)

 

As memorable as these things are, it is important to note that the next generation will have their own reflective moments, just as generations past have theirs.  So…why blog about nostalgia?  Today’s world often seems filled with anxiety, worry, fear, violence and uncertainty.  The days that I remember so fondly now, were also filled with the above emotions. 

Many forget that the 70’s were also a time of turmoil. 

• October 6, 1973, the Yom Kippur War began when Egypt and Syria attacked Israel from two sides.  During this time, our country experienced extreme gas price hikes and a shortage of fuel.  Lines formed outside gas stations and people waited hours for fuel. 

• Americans experienced terrorism and were in shock when the Iran Hostage Crisis happened in 1977 where 52 hostages were held for 444 days. 

•  Lay-offs began and unions were dismantled. 

Yes, I could name others, but the point is…..we survived!

Therefore, once we recognize that emotions cannot change facts and understand that action, not wishing, impacts outcomes; then, and only then, can we see beyond the smog that clouds our vision.  Just think, if we learn to appreciate the people and positive happenings that occur each day, strive to make a difference in our community, gripe less and move forward, imagine how much greater your reflection will be 20 years from now. 

Yes, I have finally arrived at the age where I can reflect back on “The Good ‘ol Days”.  How far back I travel depends upon the day……………..  

I SHOULD WRITE A BOOK

     If the words, “I should write a book” or “I could write a book” have ever crossed your mind, then rest assured that you are not alone.   According to http://publishingperspectives.com/2011/05/200-million-americans-want-to-publish-books, 81% or 200 million people say they would like to publish a book; yet, statistics prove that very few pursue authorship status.     

     The publishing industry, undeniably, has experienced dramatic changes over the past twenty years.  The most prevalent changes have included the advancement, acceptance and surge of self-publishing houses and e-books.  In 2010, 2,776,260 titles were self-published, compared with 316,480 titles published by traditional publishing houses, as reported by Bowker.  Regardless of the method of publishing, people love to read and books are still in demand.      

     As you consider entering the wonderful world of writing, you may be wondering what genre, Fiction or Non-Fiction, promotes the most book sales.  USA TODAY’s Best Selling Book List found that Fiction sales rose from 67% in 2007 to 78% in 2011, whereas, Non-Fiction sales trail slightly with the categories of History, Biographies and Religious/Spirituality, ranking as the most popular. 

     The publishing industry estimates that ghostwriters write more than 50% of all books; however, this figure is difficult to confirm for several reasons, ghostwriter anonymity, author recognition and contractual agreements, to name a few.

     Possibly, you are thinking the time has arrived to stop procrastinating and put paper to pen or…. fingers to keyboard, as the case may be.  BUT wait……….not so fast!  Before you race to the computer to impart powerful words of wisdom, write the great American novel or search the internet to find a ghostwriter, it is imperative to understand that the publishing process involves much more than merging a great idea onto printed material.  The goal is to sell your writing and avoid having hundreds of book copies stored away in a closet.  Listed below are a few things to consider before writing that first word.      

IDENTIFY YOUR BOOK PROJECT:

·         Genre-Fiction/Non-Fiction

·         Category-(Ex:  Mystery, Sci-Fi, Humor, History, Religious/Spiritual, Poetry)

·         Self-Publishing or Traditional Publishing (Note:  Traditional Publishing usually requires securing an agent)

·         Define your target audience

·         Objective for the reader

·         Anticipated word count-(varies by genre, audience and topic)  

·         Develop a website and social media pages

·         Speaking tours for promotion

·         Book signings

·         Obtain an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) CAUTION:  P.O.D. publishers (publish on demand) often take a large percentage of sales and does not market your book.

·         E-book version (Every type of book version requires a separate ISBN)

·         Graphics

·         Book size

·         Printing

·         Obtain a copyright - http://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-general.html#what

     With your basic writing starter kit compiled, it is time to begin.  Isolate yourself from everyone for a few hours, sit comfortably at your computer or pick up a pen and paper, grab a cup of hot coffee and let the inspiration, begin.

OUTSOURCING GRANT-WRITING SERVICES CAN BE BENEFICIAL

Nonprofit organizations, particularly smaller organizations, operate with a limited budget, a skeleton staff and exist on donations.  Although, these organizations rely on fundraising, grant funding, individual donations and volunteers to survive; the majority of these organizations do not have full-time grant writers or development personnel on staff.   Unfortunately, the fundraising responsibilities then fall to the Executive Director, whose plate, most often, has passed the point of full to arrive at obligation overflow.        

A depressed economy, declining monetary support and increased anxiety have led to an increase in the.....

MASS DEPARTURE OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

When an Executive Director leaves a nonprofit organization, they often take with them vital information and partnership contacts.  The affected organization may experience a decrease in donations, as well as, resignations by both board members and staff.    

Typically, a nonprofit Executive Director is responsible for the overall operation of the organization, serves as a liaison between staff and board members and is responsible for promotions, fundraising and the financial health of the organization.  While responsibilities may vary, depending on the size of the organization, ultimately the Executive Director receives accolades for success and assumes the consequences for failure. 

According to a nonprofit survey conducted by the United Way of King County in Seattle, Washington, the average tenure for an Executive Director, within the nonprofit sector, averages 6.1 years.  In addition, a July 2011 article, http://www.philanthropyjournal.org/news/top-stories/exodus-executive-directors-expected, entitled Exodus of Executive Directors expected, highlights a Meyer Foundation study citing “Sixty-Seven percent of executives plan to leave their jobs within five years.” 

Stress, burn-out, low wages, lack of benefits and board member conflicts are just a few reasons attributed to this staggering, high turnover rate.  Although these statistics are alarming, the departure effect on the nonprofit organization is, often underestimated, unsettling and sometimes tragic. 

The relevance, of whether the Executive Director chooses to leave by his/her own volition or the decision is mandated by a Board of Directors, is moot; either way, the organization suffers as a direct result of an Executive Director departure unless a transition plan is in place. 

Outsourcing grant- writing services can be an essential part of a successful transition plan.  An independent grant writer can help provide stability during this pivotal transition time by allowing the Board of Directors the freedom to search and identify a qualified candidate to fulfill this vital role without worrying about the financial health of the organization. 

Listed below are a few of the benefits of outsourcing grant-writing services:

1)  Copy retention of valuable organization documentation including:

• 501 (c) 3 IRS Determination Letter
• Mission and Vision Statements
• Non-Discriminatory Policy
• Organization Operating Budget
• Form 990
• Staff Qualification Descriptions 
• Project and Program Budgets
• Organization’s Target Audience, Demographics and Statistics

2)  Awareness of programs, projects, expectations and future initiatives

3)  Grant monies requested, received and required reporting

4)  Campaign and grant application deadlines

5)  Funding resource strategies

Outsourcing grant- writing services can also be an asset once a new Executive Director is hired.  Grant writing involves hours of research to identify funding opportunities that match the funder and the organization mission, areas of interest (support), geographic location and monetary requirements.   

An independent grant writer affords a nonprofit leader the ability to concentrate on implementing the programs and projects that benefit their respective communities.  This freedom can increase the likelihood that the Executive Director will remain in the position longer, as well as, foster a sense of organization stability.        

COMMENT SPAM - PROTECT YOUR SITE

Do you blog?  Do you have a website?  If so, beware!  A barrage of Comment Spam may soon be appearing.    

Comment Spam tries to hide itself behind a veil of, what may first appear to be to be, a genuine comment.  Listed below are a few tips to help discern, identify and protect your’ blog or website from unwanted spam.   

1)      Adjust blog and website comment section settings to require comment approval rather than allow automatic posting. 

2)      Avid blog readers become followers, they do not continuously comment on a website about a blog.

3)      Beware of vague compliments sent from a business or non-personal email that do not refer to specific content contained on your website.  Never respond to the comments as the intent is to generate a response aimed at increasing search engine rankings. 

4)      Comments that originate from a business or website email rather than an individual name.

5)      Non-specific questions about a website set up or its’ content. 

6)      Comments that contain missing words within the sentence, random letters, gibberish, excessive compliments, severe grammar mistakes, misspelled words or vain attempts to offer advice. 

7)      Comments that have odd numbers or letters, such as spAm or sp&1am.

          Listed below are a few actual examples of Comment Spam:

·        Wow! Thank you! I always wanted to write on my web site something like that. Can I incorporate a portion of your post to my website?

·        It is really a nice and helpful piece of info. I am happy that you shared this useful info with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

·        Thank you for the good write up. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?

·        We're a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your website offered us with valuable info to work on. You've done a formidable job and our whole community will be thankful to you.

·        I'm still learning from you, but I'm making my way to the top as well. I definitely enjoy reading all that is written on your blog. Keep the articles coming.I liked it!

·        Very interesting info!Perfect just what I was searching for!

·        Ajieljdildkdidls;soepw[q;,.urke;loel.

There are a variety of programs designed to help prevent spam.  It is a personal decision whether or not an investment of this type is warranted as it depends upon the amount of spam received.  

Last but not least, remember a website or blog is a reflection of you and your business.  Therefore, it’s important to approve all comments and check your website and/or blog regularly to ensure the content is protected.      

BLOGGING FOR BUSINESS

A Web-Log or Blog, as it is affectionately known today, was designed to be a platform where individuals could post random thoughts and stories and share them through the internet.   

Whether you love blogs or hate them, the fact remains that blogs are changing the way we do business.   Customers are savvy and utilize internet search engines to locate information about products, services and companies.  They also look for tips, advice and general information about a variety of topics and subjects. 

It is important to note that blogging is NOT usually a method of direct advertising; however, exceptions can apply.  A well written blog engages your target audience, establishes you as an expert in your field and can ultimately drive traffic to your website or place of business.  The goal of a blog is to attract readers to become followers.  Followers like what they have read and choose to be notified of your next intriguing entry. 

Blogging requires time and time is a luxury that many business owners, particularly small business owners, do not have.  This is why many businesses are choosing to save time and money by utilizing professional writers to ghost-write their blogs.  Your approved blog copy can simply be pasted it into your existing blog.  You can then share your blog link through social media sites, printed materials and websites; the written material belongs to YOU.    

To learn more about ghost-blogging for your business, visit www.writefunding.com .

MINI-VAN MAMA

The 90’s will be remembered for a variety of events, promotions and inventions, some of which include:  Cloned Sheep, Bill Clinton, The Gulf War, Barney®, and · Madonna

However, the 90’s may be remembered most, as the era of the…………Mini-Van.  The Mini-Van was much, much more than just a vehicle; it was the most sought after automobile of choice for every modern, American mom.  The marketing campaign for the Mini-Van birthed an entirely new advertising iconic concept--the “family” vehicle.

How naïve we (moms) were in the 1990’s.  We believed that we were independent thinkers who could not be persuaded or affected by the advertising industry.  We assumed that our purchasing habits and decisions were solely our own.  Typically, sales pitches and TV ads were unchallenging, as we quickly acquired the talent of bargain shopping and developed the gift of haggling.

1997, I subconsciously succumbed to the hype of an advertisement and yes, I purchased a Mini-Van. I was totally unaware that the vehicle I was purchasing could actually change my life and the way my life was viewed by others.  Within a few short years, the metamorphosis had occurred.  I hardly recognized myself.  I had become the epitome of domesticity.

Unbeknownst to me, a person reeks of Mommy-hood behind the wheel of a Mini-Van.  A Mini-Van is a vehicle that is constantly traveling (running errands) without ever really identifying a true destination. Throughout history, since the invention of the automobile, there has never been a vehicle that has stereotyped its owner quite as effectively as the Mini-Van.

A Mini-Van Mama is usually a coupon clipping, PTA certified, T-Ball inclined, financially challenged, laundry sorting, meal preparing female.  A Mini-Van Mama proudly displays her accomplishments on the back window of her vehicle with stick figure decals that reveal every person in the household along with the family dog and cat.  Of course, honor student bumper stickers and marching band decals often complete the decorative motif.

It is important to note, however, that the resale value of a pre-owned Mini-Van is extremely low.  Primarily, because most Mini-Vans are driven until they drop.  In addition, I am certain that the smashed candy inside the armrests, mud stains and spilled cherry cola throughout the interior combined with the permanent indention of small footprints imbedded onto the back of the driver’s seat greatly attribute to this decrease in value. 

Although a Mini-Van can seat seven people comfortably, for some reason, one more seats are always needed.  A Mini-Van Mama inadvertently adds passengers, not through labor and delivery, but by pick up.  A Mini-Van Mama often finds herself moonlighting as a transportation liaison for other children as well.

A Mini-Van is a mobile packing company, ready to roll at a moment’s notice and can be identified easily by the array of objects contained in the back compartment.  Some of the more common necessities include: Baseball bats, bicycles, strollers, diaper bags, groceries, lawn chairs, stuffed animals, blankets, duffle bags containing snacks, books and baby wipes, umbrellas and so-on.

The most amazing transformation I witnessed was in the persona of a Mini-Van Mama, as it was very easy to spot a fellow co-hart, particularly within the confines of a department or discount store.  A Mini-Van Mama would have two or more children with her, wore sweat pants or possibly blue jeans, tennis shoes (no brand name), little or no makeup, a hurried look and keys in hand at the register.

Are you (or were you) a Mini-Van Mama?  The following list contains a few common and/or typical characteristics of a Mini-Van Mama:

1. Room mother at school

2. Disagreement arbitrator

3. Education assistant

4. Cook/crockpot guru

5. Housekeeper/laundry

6. Financial coordinator (pays bills, balances checkbook)

7. Utilizes call-waiting feature often

8. Coffee anytime during the day

9. Cookie/cereal crumbs on the floor that get caught between your toes when barefoot

10. Hamburger mixes

11. Deep fryers

12. Electric skillets

13. Microwaves

14. Uses paper plates and plastic dishes that burp

15. Embraces lay-a-way

16. Writes a list for everything

17. Forgets to look at the list

18. Christmas shops on Black Friday

19. Decorates the day after Thanksgiving

20. Plans to exercise after the first of the year (every year)

How many of the above characteristics did you identify with?

12-20- Congratulations you are a true Mini-Van Mama

10-12- Not bad, probably drive an SUV that looks like a Mini-Mini-Van

0-10 – That's o.k. - Sedan driver – no kids or hires a nanny

Although, the popularity of the Mini-Van, in many cases, has since been replaced by the SUV, the fact remains that the Mini-Van has/had one other not so obvious, unpublicized attraction.  To this day this continues to be a Mini-Vans greatest benefit. This benefit did not become evident to me until 2004, when my then, 16, year old explained that he would rather WALK to school than drive the family Mini-Van.

Now THAT’S what I call an advertising concept!  

SEEING THROUGH EYES OF FAITH

These days, I spend the Christmas season reflecting upon blessings rather than focusing on the many worries of life. I am often mesmerized by the twinkling of various light displays and eagerly anticipate the first snowfall of the season. My mind is captivated by the beauty of each tiny, carefully designed, snowflake as it cascades through the glare of a street light. I take time to experience and bask in the glow and warmth of the Christmas tree and find myself fascinated by the lights as they flicker on and off, in silence.

Yes, Virginia, miracles still happen and my daughter is living proof of that. In June 1995, my daughter’s vision was attacked by a rare virus, causing clouding of the cornea which resulted in blindness. Barely, three years old, she was referred to Washington University’s Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO. At the time, we were told that the only chance to save her vision would be a cornea transplant and our hope was that she would be able to tell a cat from a dog.

August 24, 1996, a donor was identified.  Her donor was only 18 years old, yet he and his family demonstrated the ultimate act of love; giving everything he had to someone he had never met so that others might have life or an enhanced life.  How can one ever adequately say thank you for such a sacrifice?

As a mom, I was devastated to learn that my daughter would have to endure this. Yet, in the midst of heartbreak and trial, I quickly learned how fortunate we were. Our daughter’s transplant was not considered life threatening as were some of the transplants children were receiving that day. As several other anxious parents filled the waiting area for news about their little ones; the effects of stress were evident.

The wait seemed like an eternity and thankfully everything went great; however, I was not prepared to see my baby girl in recovery. There she was, so tiny, so fragile, her eye covered with a patch and her arms placed inside braces to prevent her from touching her eye. In addition, IV’s, monitors and other equipment was hooked up to her. We recognized that the long road to recovery was about to begin.

Looking back, a lot of things about that time seem to be blurred; that said, I do know that my prayers were answered. My baby girl, Sarah can see! She plays with dolls, loves music, reads her books and fights with her big brother. Sarah and I now spend much of our time as advocates for organ and tissue donation. It is humbling to realize that as a registered donor, you become a miracle waiting to happen.

Christmas is a time when Christians, like me, celebrate the birth of a miracle more than 2000 years ago. The birth of Jesus Christ paved the way for miracles that do still happen today. Do you HAVE to believe in miracles….no, you most certainly do not. Do I believe in miracles….you bet I do!  Faith is defined as believing without seeing; yet in this particular case I guess one could surmise that, Seeing IS the result of Faith Believed!

Side Note: 2011-Sarah is 19 and a Music Performance Major in college. She is currently celebrating her 16^th year as a cornea recipient, is an outstanding flute player, an avid reader, transposes music, loves to write and drives a car. For information about becoming an organ and tissue donor visit: donatelife.net.

Half Baked Humor - A Bread Family Christmas

 

Although, not much is known about the origins of the Bread family, their ancestry can be traced all the way back to the days of Moses and the leavened lineage of the Manna’s. Could it be that YOU have never heard the Bread Family Christmas story?

Well, sit back, relax, fix a cup of hot coca and grab a warm blanket, the story you are about to hear has eluded most until now.

Our story begins one cold winter Christmas Eve night.  Corn & Ginger Bread were busily preparing for their guests to arrive to celebrate Christmas.

The Bread family was blessed with six little muffins, Blueberry, Banana Nut, English, Choco Latte., Bran and Pumpkin.

Now Blueberry left an imprint everywhere she went, while Banana Nut, the character of the group, loved to tell jokes but couldn’t always keep it together. English the third born muffin, had a split sense of humor, leaving Choco Latte as more a chip off the ‘ol block. Bran avoided confusion and much preferred for everything to simply run smooth. Last but not least, Pumpkin, the baby, spiced things up. Of course, no family would be complete without the family pet, Hushpuppy.

The little muffins were anxiously awaiting the arrival of well… you know who? Corn Bread was worried because the troubled economy was making raisin six little muffins difficult. Times were tough for the Breads with everyone tightening their belts (or trying too), many Breads were being sliced. Day after day, he would roll to the factory, because they kneaded the dough. However, Ginger Bread never seemed overly concerned; she went about her sweet way, smiling through the worst of times. It didn’t matter what the mood was, inside the little canister they called a house, Ginger Bread always made everyone feel a little bit better.

Every year Corn Bread invited his in-laws; the loaves. Their rye, sense of humor was never received well and most of the time they ended up behaving like heels. Yet year after year, Corn Bread kept hoping that this would be the year things would be different.

Earlier that afternoon, Ginger Bread had put the little muffins down for their nap so they would be wide awake for the festivities. “Rise and shine”, sang Ginger Bread. The little muffins seemed stuck in the warmth of their surroundings, but a little bit of careful nudging and they were ready to greet everyone.

As customary, Breads from all over the country would soon be arriving from Yeast to West and everywhere in-between. Aunt Éclair and Cousin Pita were the first to arrive, followed by Uncle Crumpet. Uncle Crumpet always made Ginger Bread nervous because sometimes he would arrive a little half baked. Other relatives included, Biscuit who had obviously packed on a few extra layers but was jolly and fluffy as ever. Ciabatta traveled all the way from Italy, just to be with the family.  Sourdough arrived angry followed by Grandma Pumpernickel who was simply a crusty ‘ol Bread. However, soon everyone had reached their destination and the little house was filled with Breads. More than three dozen were gathered around the oven.

The clock ticked ever so slowly as anticipation grew for the little muffins; they were almost crumbling with excitement, when suddenly a loud POP was heard outside the little house, followed by a giggle. It was time; the moment they had been waiting for! There he was, easily identifiable by his characteristic hat, shirt and no pants ensemble. Yes, it was the famous Dough Boy himself, delivering goodies, fresh from the oven. He spoke not a word, but the giggles were endless. Dough Boy went straight to his work and was soon out the door, but they heard him exclaim as he soared out of sight, Whooo Hooo Hoo Hoo happy baking to all and to all a good night.

Setter or Retriever -- What are you?

Every Sunday, breeds from every religious denomination gather together for services within their respective Houses of Worship. Close examination of congregations conclude that the most common breed is the infamous Pew-Setter. It can be difficult to recognize a Pew-Setter as it highly resembles its’ purer counterpart, the Soul-Winning Retriever. There are several ways to identify and distinguish between the two.

The Pew-Setter’s actions, though not usually malicious or intentional, might best be described as learned behavior. The typical Pew-Setter attends all Worship services and activities; stands when directed; sits when instructed to do so; Amen’s on command and occasionally speaks or testifies when prompted to do so. This lineage usually stems back several generations and, unfortunately, has a misplaced sense of ownership. This progeny usually sits in the same spot and can become secretively, and in some instances, boldly indignant when an uncommon breed happens to take up residence on their perceived, reserved dominion commonly known as a pew.

The Pew-Setter tends to be very vocal and simply has no qualms about offering criticism about anything or anyone. This particular mutt seems to have an overwhelming urge to how loudly when changes occur and will never admit that he/she participates in and often orchestrates gossip. This tracker uses its’ nose to sniff out private information regarding others and unwittingly disguises the information as a prayer request without contemplating any damage that may result.

In sharp contrast to the above description, one can easily detect the Pew-Setter’s rare, purebred counterpart, the Soul-Winning Retriever. The Soul-Winning Retriever also attends morning, evening and weekday Worship Services; however, should an uncommon breed take up residence on the Soul-Winning Retriever’s territory, he/she welcomes the newcomer, retrieves personal details such as, name, address, whether or not they attend another House of Worship regularly and then is forthcoming with an invitation to return often. The Soul-Winning Retriever hangs with a pack that welcomes all new breeds. This beloved jewel, genuinely tries to form a lasting friendship bond that is not isolated and reserved specifically for visitors.

The Soul-Winning Retriever strives for joy and peace. This exceptional pedigree endeavors to share the Gospel outside of the church walls, is highly educated in God’s Word, follows God’s directives and takes his/her Spiritual walk very seriously.

This Soul hunting house is always on a mission, sniffing out witnessing opportunities and providing assistance to those in need. This thoroughbred has a keen awareness and uses discernment when another seems to be in distress or going through a difficult time. This hound will relentlessly pursue every avenue until all venues have been exhausted in order to provide assistance.

Trust is a particular plus with this bloodline. Listed as an exquisite gem and in a class by itself, this thoroughbred studies the Word of God regularly and retains it for usage at an appropriate time. In addition, the Soul-Winning Retriever gives to others, as directed by the Holy Spirit and earnestly attempts to win lives to Jesus Christ. A feat of this magnitude can only be accomplished through a genuine expression of love and concern toward others, both inside and outside of the Tabernacle.

Inside the Sanctuary, the Soul-Winning Retriever receives the weekly message and inspiration from God’s Holy Word and immediately releases this message into the world upon completion of the service.

Through the words and prophecies contained in the Bible, a remarkable promise has emerged; Hope is not lost for the misdirected Pew-Setter or any breed for that matter. This poor, mutant breed can be transformed instantaneously into a Soul-Winning Retriever.  As a matter of fact, all breeds must be transformed. This change does not require DNA manipulation but simply a true acceptance of Jesus Christ as Personal Savior, surrendering everything to Him, repenting of past discrepancies and last but not least, a few lessons in……………….obedience training.

So....You Want to Start a Non-Profit Organization

As a professional writer, specializing in grant writing for non-profits and faith based organizations, I often receive calls from individuals who are considering starting a non-profit organization. Although the majority of inquiries are from people who have a genuine concern or passion for a particular need within their respective communities; the frightening calls are from individuals who seem to think starting a non-profit organization provides them with the ideal opportunity to avoid paying taxes.

A huge misconception is the perception that non-profit status (typically a 501 c 3) will result in a lot of money dispersed your way to support your project, program, capital or staff expenses. This is an illusion.  The fact remains that most non-profit organizations struggle financially and are always on a quest to secure the necessary funding to ensure that their projects or programs can either be implemented or continued.

Most non-profit organizations spend hours submitting grant funding applications, requesting donations, hosting fundraising events, learning about and encouraging planned giving and engaging in extensive networking opportunities to build business relationships.

Important steps to consider before downloading IRS Form 1023 and applying for non-profit status:

1.    Become a volunteer for a non-profit organization FIRST; you cannot manage what you do not know.

2.    Set up meetings with several existing non-profit organizations to learn about the challenges they face and the state of the economic climate in the geographic area you are considering.

3.    Develop a business plan, just as you would with a for-profit business.

4.    Research and document the need, target audience and how many people will be served.

5.    Determine minimal staffing requirements.

6.    Organization location and expenses.

7.    Development of a Board of Directors.

8.    Understanding fundraising laws and non-profit requirements, expectations and reporting.

9.    Outline a funding resource strategy.

10.  Construct a Volunteer/Supporter recruitment plan.

11.  Outcomes desired and measurement methods to track success of lives changed or impacted.

12.  Identify other organizations in the area that are providing a similar service to ensure that another organization in the area is warranted.

      After the above factors have been carefully considered, consult the expertise of a qualified attorney or CPA to assist you with the required paperwork.  

While this article cannot cover everything that should be considered before starting a non-profit organization, it serves as a brief synopsis.

     Once you have acquired your 501 (c) 3 non-profit status, the following tips can help you move forward: 

·         Successful operation of a non-profit organization must be passion driven and above reproach in integrity.

·         Ethics are critical as the damage caused by a breach of ethics can be irrevocable and result in the demise of an entire organization.

·         It is imperative that all employees and volunteers recognize that they represent your organization 24/7 and that improper behavior, including online, is a reflection upon the organization and will not be tolerated.