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.

SUCCESS IS PASSION DRIVEN

Many have pondered the question, "What is the key to success?"  Bookstore shelves across the country are lined with inspirational writings by various authors who gladly impart their wisdom, experience and suggestions to a willing, paying public.  However, the availability of such information does not equate with applying this instruction.

Many “how to” guides imply that success and financial reward are synonymous.  The word, success, is often used to describe a person’s monetary attainment; yet, true success can best be defined through achievement or accomplishment.

Happiness and fulfillment are two key components that help identify and differentiate between the definitions.  Monetary wealth can evoke the perception that financial gain is the true epitome of success and this assessment is readily accepted by many.  However, this is nothing more than an optical illusion masquerading as authenticity.

So again, the question emerges, “What is the key to success?”   Success is passion driven; therefore, a gift or talent that drives you is your’ passion.  Passion is an intense inward devotion that compels someone to pursue that which others may see as a glitch in common sense or logic.

So the question begs, does one throw reality to the wind and become a vagabond pursuing a dream?  Obviously, the answer is a resounding NO!  Not every passion involves becoming a singing icon, movie star, musician or President of the United States.  Your passion may be the desire to assist others, teach children, climb a mountain or write a book.  The list is as complex as your own aspiration.  Merging passion with career may not always be possible, but this does not negate the importance of your passion pursuit. 

Gifts and talents are as unique as the individuals who possess them.  The tragedy and disappointment lies not in the pursuit of these abilities, but in the failure to allow them to foster the truest sense of success!

Networking IS Important for Faith Based Organizations

Networking may be common place in the business sector but has failed to even scratch the surface of reaching its full potential within the realm of Faith Based Organizations and Churches.

A recent general statement captured my attention, “Oh, our church doesn’t do networking”.  As I contemplated this declaration, it did seem like many faith based networking activities or functions were contained within their respective denominations or facilities.

Come to think of it, rarely was a church or religious organization represented at any of the multiple networking events I attend?  I began to wonder and question….why?  Was membership cost a factor?  Were these organizations under the assumption networking was a practice privy to for-profit businesses?  Was it simply a matter of misunderstanding about what networking is and the importance of participation?

Helping non-profit and faith based organizations secure funding for projects and programs is not only my career, but my passion.  I am often asked about fundraising ideas, development and implementation. One critical component of fundraising is acquiring donations.  Donation requests for fundraisers can lessen or, in some cases, eliminate out of pocket costs for an array of items that may include: Food, drinks, prizes, incentives, signage and more.

Networking isn’t just meeting a group of people, exchanging niceties and shaking hands.  It is a proactive, strategic approach to finding common ground with likeminded businesses and organizations to help further your mission, garner support and utilize or recommend the products or services of those whom you meet.   While this is not the venue for a full-fledged sermon, it is a great time to share with others about your outreach programs, your community goals and plans going forward to encourage engagement, participation and support for various programs or projects.

It is imperative for churches who host or plan to host a fundraising event, to be mindful of the tremendous advantage networking can have. Networking can provide valuable personal connections that are essential when trying to secure in-kind donations.  Businesses, as a rule, receive thousands of requests for donations and obviously cannot contribute to all of them. Networking can potentially be the difference between receiving a donation for your fundraising event or not.

Think about it from a business perspective.  As a business, you receive a donation request from a church that has no affiliation with your business, no personal connection with anyone in the organization and has absolutely no ties other than the donation request; why would the business choose to support that fundraiser?

Faith based organizations and churches must begin to realize, that to an extent they must operate like any other business.  As a non-profit, the church relies upon donations and contributions to provide the monetary resources necessary to meet financial obligations.  In addition, funding must be acquired in order to provide continued support for various outreach programs and projects.

So whether you’re part of a leadership team, worship team or congregation, when network opportunities present themselves, get out of your comfort zone and attend.  If you’re not comfortable with the term networking, simply think of it as an extension of your witnessing mission.

Business Correspondence - Reflection of Professionalism

A well written letter can serve as a very effective sales tool for any business; particularly a small business. Business correspondence that is creative and professionally constructed can open doors and pave the way for personal meetings which can help foster business relationships and ultimately lead to sales.

Unfortunately, business correspondence, in many cases, no longer reflects the image of professionalism. Email and text abbreviations have helped create a superficial acceptance of spelling errors, misplaced acronyms and, yes, even inappropriate verbiage.

Written correspondence is a direct reflection of your business. Sloppy structure, bad grammar and spelling errors imply a careless attitude and a lack of respect for the product or service you provide.

·         Proofread all correspondence before it leaves the office. Utilize spell check but refrain from relying upon it.

·         When possible, limit written communications to one page. Business correspondence should be constructed to intrigue, engage or invite further contact.

·         Avoid form letters. Personalize by incorporating mail merge technology. When in doubt, contact the company and ask for a name and title.

·         Professionally printed stationary and business cards help present an image of success.

·         The last paragraph of a letter should list email or direct phone contact information.

·         Personally sign correspondence.  Stamped signatures can suggest that the recipient is not worth your time.

Review business correspondence from a customer perspective. A GREAT first impression can be the beginning of a long, prosperous business relationship. It is simply a matter of respecting the process!

Tips to Avoid Common Fundraising Mistakes

Implementing an effective, profitable fundraising event takes work….a lot of WORK!  A successful fundraising event requires extensive planning, strategy, budgeting and coordination.

The size of the organization is irrelevant; RAISING MONEY is the common theme.  Although, it is impossible to prevent all mistakes or foresee every problem that could occur; the following tips may help you avoid fundraising mistakes that can be the difference between a successful event and one that is not!

·         Mistake #1: Crisis Mode Fundraising

Avoid THROWING TOGETHER a fundraiser to address an immediate financial emergency. Hosting a fundraising event requires extensive planning. Allow a minimum of four to six months for planning.

·         Mistake #2: Failing to Research Conflicting Fundraising Events

The goal of a fundraising event is NOT to simply attract dedicated supporters of your cause, but to attract new donors and volunteers. It is imperative to thoroughly research Community Calendars and Similar Organization Website to help identify conflicts, ultimately increasing the likelihood of greater attendance and funds raised.

·         Mistake #3: Failing to Prepare a Budget

Failing to create and follow a strict budget can drastically and negatively impact profit potential.  Be mindful of expenses, large and small. 

·         Mistake #4: Dependence upon In-Kind Donations

Donated items are a key component for the success of a fundraising event and the planning process should include a strategy for requesting In-Kind donations; the danger lies in DEPENDING upon them. These items should be included in the budget and when (if) they are actually donated, then the profit margin is increased, but a loss can be prevented.

·         Mistake #5: Lack of Back-Up Planning

A back-up plan is needed in the event of inclement weather or unforeseen emergencies. Although, preparations can be made to move an outdoor event indoors, it is important to note that severe weather can negatively affect overall attendance. 

·         Mistake #6: Failing to Abide by Local Laws and Ordinances

Verify that the event is covered under an existing insurance policy or inquire as to whether or not an umbrella is necessary. Obtain ALL required permits and be aware of ordinances that have the potential to interrupt or shut down the event. (Example: Noise, Traffic and or Parking Ordinances.)

·         Mistake #7: Lack of Marketing Strategy

Social media (Facebook/Twitter) are great tools; however, this resource should never be relied upon as the ONLY source of marketing. If people are not aware of the event, they will not attend. Again, the budget should reflect a minimum amount for advertising costs.

·         Mistake #8: Professional Fee/Contract Misunderstandings

Read contracts CAREFULLY regarding payment, equipment and fees for speakers, musicians, etc.

·         Mistake #9: Equipment Issues/Security

When at all possible, have extra equipment or qualified staff that can correct or repair equipment or resolve an issue. Problems with sound systems, refrigeration units, air-conditioning/heating and electric outlets/problems can RUIN a fundraising event.  SECURITY is vital for the protection of attendees, workers and facilities.

·         Mistake #10: Failure to Form a Fundraising Committee

ALWAYS form a fundraising committee of dedicated volunteers who are willing to take charge of certain tasks. Never tackle the challenge of putting together a fundraising event alone or with minimal volunteers.

GRANT FUNDING IS FOR CHURCHES TOO!

Churches, like any non-profit organization, depend upon contributions to help meet daily operational and program expenses.  However, when tough economic times impact those who support such organizations, the result can be devastating. 

 

In order to meet expenses, cuts may be necessary and ironically, outreach programs are, many times, first on the list.  There are no easy answers or quick fixes; however, there are funding resources available.  I am speaking particularly about grant funding.  Due to a number of misunderstandings, many churches are, at best, apprehensive about applying for grant funding.    

Some grant funding misunderstandings include:

·         All grant funding is provided by the government--FALSE

All grant funding is NOT provided by the government.  Grant funding opportunities are also offered through Corporate and Private Foundations

·         Grantor's will not fund churches—FALSE

Corporate and Foundation grant guidelines are very specific about what they fund and what they do not.  Most will fund Faith Based Organizations but will not fund a project or program that only benefits a specific religious activity or supports a particular denomination or church.  Grantor's seek to support projects or programs that benefit the community as a whole. There are also foundations who specifically fund religious activities and ministries designed to spread the Gospel message; however, these are more difficult to identify and when found, are extremely competitive.

·         Accepting a grant award will restrict what we can say—TRUE and FALSE

Government grants, possibly.  Corporate and Foundation grants, probably not.  Again, read the guidelines. Keep in mind, grant funding opportunities are also available that specifically fund religious programs, projects and evangelism.  

Facts about grant awards

·         Grant funding is extremely competitive.

·         Many funding organizations have reduced award amounts.

·         Funding decisions vary from a couple of months to 6 months or longer.

·         Site visits are common.

·         Most grant awards require reporting be made at various intervals.

·         Grant monies must be spent as stated in the application.

·         Most grants specify support for projects and/or programs and exclude operation expenses and salaries. 

·         Grant application opportunities require a tremendous amount of research and time.  

Grant funding is intended as a financial supplement to help organizations fulfill their mission to serve their respective communities.  Utilizing grant funding can help provide the financial resources necessary to continue an effective outreach program or implement a new one and should never be relied upon as an organizations only revenue source.