Some Good News on Giving

Good news from the November 7, 2008 edition of The Pastor's Weekly Briefing. 

Americans Keep Giving Even in Tough Times

While the recent economic downturn has caused many churches and non-profit organizations to wonder what the last two months of the year may hold in store, two recent studies suggest that, even amid tough times, Americans will keep giving.

A national survey of online consumers released this week finds that 51 percent (89 million people) plan to donate to nonprofit groups via the Internet in November and December. The study, which was commissioned by Convio Inc., a Texas-based maker of online donation software, estimates that online giving to charities will top $3 billion during this holiday season.

A related report, released in September by Giving USA Foundation, surprisingly shows that, over the past 40 years, times of recession and economic slowdown have not had a major impact on charitable giving. The research reveals that, during recessions since 1969, total giving has only dropped by an average rate of one percent. "It's important at this juncture for cooler heads to prevail and for non-profits to not listen to those who would claim the sky is falling," said George C. Ruotolo Jr., past chairman of Giving USA Foundation. "Those charities with a clear and compelling case and an established loyal donor constituency will continue to succeed, even in difficult times." [GivingUSA Foundation, yahoo.com]

Is your church expecting strong year-end giving, or do you anticipate a shortfall?  What steps are you taking to encourage giving during this tough economic season?

Posted by Christopher Willard, director of Leadership Network's Generous Churches Leadership Community.

Comments

[Julie]

Thanks for this post, Chris. I am in complete agreement here. We are finding that if we continue ahead on the vision God has called us to, continue communicating that vision, share stories of life change as a result of that vision, and unashamedly continue asking our people to join with us in the vision, then generosity wins out and people prioritize their financial picture to reflect one that can give to this cause.

Unfortunately, many churches and ministries are tempted to shrink their vision at such a time as this and in doing so quite possibly run the risk of losing significant financial support. Especially in times like these, SOMEONE is casting vision for their money. Whether it's the retailers, the creditors, their mortgage lender, their children, or another non-profit, someone is casting a vision for their money if it's not the Church.

I'm not saying we all don't need to continue being fiscally responsible as church leaders. We most definitely do, which may mean creatively finding new efficiencies in our budgets or making changes where changes need to be made. But those things can be done without shrinking the vision and without doubting the confidence your contributors have in your mission.

We've experienced some cool things lately from being intentional about generosity and giving, and I pray that for all church leaders and non-profits. This is truly an opportunity we have here, and I pray we don't miss it! And again, thank you for this encouraging article, Chris. Hope to see you soon!

[Scott in Vegas]

good post - things look tough in and out of church, but God's good.

i linked this post to http://www.newchurchreport.com to share it with others, with other good posts and articles from all over