How we raised more $ than expected for housing
NOTES from small group session, Sept. 22, 2016:
Jean Stover & John Hudspeth from First Congregational Church (~400-600 members)
Presenters:
Jean - member of congregation for 20+ years. History at Habitat for Humanity.
John - new to area, from Portland. Involved w/ at risk/homeless youth.
Participants:
Sarah Shaffner - Bethesda Lutheran -Â Wants to create transition housing for families in Bethel
Chuck Fairchild - Eugene Friends Church - Emerald Village
Susan Shroeder - Central Presbyterian - Square One Village
Dana Gray - Eugene Mission
Denise J. - Director of Supportive Services, Eugene Mission - also City Salt congregation
First Congregational Church wants:
- more focused efforts in Outreach Ministries
- more knowledge, education for ourselves and our community
- to develop relationships, connect with people who are suffering for lack of shelter
- to be transformed by our relationships to be advocates for change
- to be a lasting and sustainable effort
- every person to be able to contribute in some way (not just $$$)
- to build community inside and outside congregation
- raise enough money to make a significant impact in the community
How we decided what to do:
- networking with other organizations, new relationships and existing
- support projects that are currently in development and identify areas of innovation
- talking with members of congregation
Strategy:
- created strategic planning group, identified a name, logo, promo materials
- educated members on how they can help
- identified projects based on interest existing within the congregation
- detail project description: Conestoga Huts, a tiny home, a Habitat House
- set fundraising goal based on successful project
- explain the needs and the impact
- create a timeline for education events, forums, guest speakers leading up to a fundraising event. 3-4 month lead time.
- pick a fundraising date/event for people to commit to
- helping members understand the issues from a personal and emotional level was a key element in engaging their support on all levels
- invited members to complete a list of opportunities for support; follow up with those who responded
- sent reminders and updates in newsletters, emails and church bulletins as fundraising date approached
- fundraising worship service included powerful speakers and a direct call to action
Outcomes:
- provided opportunities for everyone person to participate: time, talent, volunteer, prayers, $$$
- $77k raised out of a goal of $60k
- built Habitat Home
- Built Conestoga Huts for the Community Supported Shelters Vet Camp
- most importantly, built more sense of community
What can your community do?
- identify capacity
- partner with other groups
- find internal champions
- stay focused and remain flexible
- create strategy for success
- keep talking about the vision