SUPPORT RAISING MANUAL FOR STUDENTS

Transcription

1 SUPPORT RAISING MANUAL FOR STUDENTS 1

2 Table of Contents Understanding Why Interview with Loren Cunningham 4 Biblical Basis 5 Before You Get Started The Importance of Prayer 7 Understanding How Organizing Contacts 9 Sample Pledge Cards 10 Making Contacts into Supporters 11 Sample Support Letter 12 Presenting your Vision & Calling 13 How do I actually ask for support? 14 Presenting YWAM Endorsements Making it easy to support you 21 Keeping Contacts & Supporters Updated 22 How to Use Social Media in Your Support Raising 23 Appendix Donation Instructions to Print 25 Pledge Cards to Print 26 2

3 Understanding Why 3

4 An Interview with YWAM s Founder By Loren Cunningham Why are all YWAM missionaries required to raise support? I think it would be wrong to say all YWAM missionaries are required to raise support, because many of them have independent support. We have those that have retired from the military, and those that have other kinds of financial arrangements where they ve made investments, and so on. But certainly the majority would need to be concerned about what system they re going to use in order to take care of their needs. Jesus Himself gives us the pattern. And I think the Jesus way of fund raising is the key. In Luke 8:1-3 it says He had a team who supported Him. It wasn t a fund. It wasn t someone else doing it for Him. It was Loren and Darlene Cunningham relational, between Jesus and the ones He had ministered to. He was Founders of Youth With A Mission accountable, in a sense, to them because of their giving. How did Paul get his support? Although he was a tent maker, he also followed the Jesus way, where individuals who knew him and that he had ministered to were able to give to him. What are the benefits of this type of funding? I think the main benefit is that the leader is not able to use money to manipulate people. When you remove money, you remove a major area of control. And the spirit of control is one of the most devastating spirits to ministries. Another one of the strengths of this is that it s all done personally. Then prayer also becomes one of the keys, not only my praying for the supporters, but the supporters will pray for me, because where they put their treasure, there their heart will be. Where their heart is, their prayer support will be. And then in turn they get the news out to their nieces, nephews, friends, relatives, sons, daughters, parents, and they might end up coming with YWAM and being part of the mission force. So it s recruitment, it s accountability, it s good communication, it s prayer support, it s a stability financially. It s a whole lot of things, but the key goes back to relationship. 4

5 Biblical Basis for Support RaisingWhat Does the Bible Say? What Does the Bible Say? This bible study s purpose is to give you insight on what the bible says in the area of missionary work and support raising. Hopefully, this will help you to put to rest any questions you or your supporters may have. Listed below you will find a few common questions that people have asked when raising support. Read each question, then look up the scripture reference listed below the question. In the space provided, write what you feel the passage is saying about the particular topic. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Luke 10:2 You are talking an active step in harvesting the field that Jesus is talking about. KNOW that you are worthy of support. Remember that God will honor your desire to go to the Nations in His name. 1. Missionaries sometimes feel guilty or like they re on welfare. Is it biblical to be supported by others to do the work of God? Would it be better if missionaries were self- supporting? Verses of interest: Luke 8:1-3; 1 Corinthians 9: Is it biblical for missionaries to make financial appeals to their own, and/ or other churches? Verses of interest: Romans 15:17-27; 1 Corinthians 16: Is it biblical to raise financial support from strangers- or from people you do not know well? Should support come primarily from those you have already ministered to? Verses of interest: 3 John 5-8, Matthew 10: What about making financial appeals to nonbelievers? What about to family? Verses of interest: Acts 10:2-4, Nehemiah 2: What about making financial appeals to those who are not as well off? Or are already giving a lot of money to other organizations and/ or people? Verses of interest: Philippians 4:14-20, 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 5

6 Before You Get Started 6

7 The Importance of Prayer Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 Support raising starts and ends with prayer with plenty of prayer sprinkled in the middle. Prayer is so important because ultimately only God can move in a person s heart but that doesn t mean we don t have to do our part. Prayer is crucial but it should be coupled with action. For example: pray before you send out support letters, pray before you make follow up phone calls, pray and thank God every time support comes in you get the idea. Inviting others to pray for you is a great way to get more prayer and get others invested in what you are doing. Support raising can be one of the most challenging/scary things YWAMers face but it forces us to fully rely on the Lord. We should always pray continuously and that doesn t change when support raising. In fact, many times support raising creates strong prayer habits that should overflow to other aspects of our lives. 7

8 Understanding How 8

9 Organizing Contacts Why should I organize contacts? Organizing your contacts is key because it answers all these questions. Who should I send my newsletter to? Who do I need to have a follow up phone conversation with? Did I send my uncle a thank you? What is the address for my mom s coworker who said she wanted to support me? When did I last my friend from high school & what is his ? How do I organize my contacts? There are several ways to organize your contacts. The important thing is that you organize them in way that you can easily access their information. Here are some examples. Apple Contacts (Can easily be synced with all apple devices) Google Contacts Outlook Contacts Excel Spreadsheet with all information What information do I need from my contacts? Phone Home Address Contact Category (current pledged supporters, special gift supporters, non donors, etc.) When you last contacted them (ex note: called and left a voic on 8/17/14) Whether or not you ve written a Thank You letter to supporters Where do I get my contacts? Namestorming: Take at least an hour to write down everyone you know. When listing people to ask for support, DO NOT ELIMINATE ANYONE who comes to mind. Who will support you is not a decision you can make. That is between the people you inform and God. Do not assume poor people won t give (include your friends, students) Do not assume people in full time ministry won t give Do not assume only people you are close to will give Do include friends, family, church members, churches, friends of friends/family, family of friends, anyone who you think of 9

10 Sample Pledge Card Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON Please Return; Mailing Address: My Name YWAM Salem 7085 Battle Creek Rd SE Salem, OR Your Name - DTS: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Please check all that apply: Enclosed is a one-time gift I am committing to support you monthly with $ I will commit to you in prayer I would like to receive your newsletters See page 43 to print pledge cards 10

11 Making Contacts Into Supporters Methods and Strategies There are many ways to contact those who you want to support you. Some ways are more effective than others. The more personal the contact is, the more effective it will be. For example, meeting a friend for coffee will be far more effective than sending a generic . Often times starting with a less personal method and moving towards more personal methods can be an effective strategy. For example, making follow up phone calls to everyone that you have sent a support letter to is a must. Below is a list of contact methods from most to least personal/effective. Face to face meeting (coffee, lunch, etc.) Facetime or Skype conversation Small group discussion Telephone conversation Large group discussion Handwritten personal letter Personal Text Message Mass produced letter Personal Newsletter Brochure Mass text Facebook post (likes do not = support) Note: The things on the bottom of this list aren t bad things to do but should be followed by more personal contact (ex: phone call, coffee, etc.) 11

12 Sample Support Letter How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? Romans 10:14 At least one photo of you doing ministry Dear, I hope all is well with you! Since I saw you last, so much has happened in my life. For one, I am planning on moving to Salem, Oregon to attend a Discipleship Training School with an organization called Youth With A Mission (YWAM). Discipleship Training School, better known as DTS, is all about falling head over heels in love with Jesus and gaining HIS heart for the nations. It is an intensive 5 1/2 month program consisting of 3 months of classroom training followed by 2 1/2 months of outreach where you get to apply what you ve learned in a developing country. During the classroom training phase, speakers come from all over the world to teach on subjects like Hearing the Voice of God, Evangelism, and Biblical Worldview. I can t even begin to tell you how excited I am for this opportunity to both learn about God and tell others about Him. To attend this exciting school, I need to raise enough financial support. As a child of God, I know that I am in His hands, and I am confident He will provide for what He has called me to do. I am fully trusting God with my future, but I also realize...i need some help! I would like to ask you to pray about joining my support team. I know that God wants to do this ministry through me, and I need others to partner with me in making it happen. I need $3000 for the first 3 months of schooling and $3500 for the 2 1/2 months of outreach. This is a total of $6500 that I need to raise before. With your help, I will get to reach out to hundreds of people who are broken and lost in both a physical and spiritual way. What an epic challenge and opportunity! I am wondering if you will consider joining my team with a one time gift or monthly gift of however much God leads you to. I have no idea what you might be able to do, but it would be a tremendous honor to have you invest in me and the lost people of the world. Whatever the outcome, please know that I care about you and appreciate you. Thanks again for your friendship! I will be giving you a phone call in the next few weeks to share more about what I am doing and to see how God led you in this. Thanks for your time and may God bless you. Leave space for personal handwritten note Sincerely, Include YWAM logo for credibility Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON 12

13 Presenting Your Vision & Calling Whether you are meeting face to face or sending a support letter, you will want to present yourself and what you are doing to potential supporters. The best way to do this is to start with God s calling on your life and the vision he has given you. People will get excited about things that you are passionate about. God has called you to be a part of discipling the nations which is something to be excited about. Here are some tips about sharing your vision and calling. Include pictures and/or short video. Visuals are so valuable. Clearly articulate your vision; why you want to go, what you want God to do, etc. Start with big picture calling/vision and work your way down to specifics. Share stories more than strategies. Your testimonies are powerful and people love to hear how God has already moved in your life. Outreach stories are great. 13

14 How Do I Actually Ask For Support? Actually asking for support can be scary and challenging but it is essential to support raising. Here are some hints when asking for support. It is important to invite people to support you in letters and s but following up by asking them in person or over the phone will create a greater response. When asking for support, be clear about your financial needs. Be direct about asking them to join you. MAKE AN ASK. Only hinting that you need support is repelling to potential donors. It is important to get a yes or a not at this time from all your contacts. If they cannot decide right then, give them a timeline. Ex: I ll call you on Monday and see what you have decided. Don t be afraid to ask for specific amounts, especially (but not only) if prompted by the Holy Spirit. Giving options is a good idea. Ex: Would you be willing to support me $ or $ monthly? 14

15 Presenting YWAM It is important that you know about YWAM international and YWAM Salem because your supporters will want to know about them. In this section you will find Information on YWAM international, quotes supporting YWAM international and an infograph detailing the vision of YWAM Salem. These resources should help you educate your contacts on the vision and mission of both YWAM international and YWAM Salem. Overview Youth With A Mission is an international volunteer movement of Christians from many backgrounds, cultures and Christian traditions, dedicated to serving Jesus throughout the world. Also known as YWAM (pronounced WHYwham ), our purpose is simply to know God and to make Him known. When YWAM began in 1960, our main focus was giving young people opportunities to demonstrate the love of Jesus to the whole world, according to His command in Mark 16:15. Today, we still focus on youth, but we have members (known as YWAMers ) of almost every age and many of our short-term efforts have grown into long-term endeavors that have impacted lives and nations. YWAM has a decentralized structure that encourages new vision and the exploration of new ways to change lives through training, convey the message of the gospel and care for those in need. We are currently operating in more than 1000 locations in over 180 countries, with a staff of over 18,000. Our many ministries fit into three main categories; evangelism, training, and mercy ministry. 1) Evangelism People who encounter Jesus want to tell others about Him. Christ inspires us to use many creative means to make his gospel understood to any audience- large or small. We use such tools as music, sports, and performing arts to connect with people of all ages and develop friendships which can lead to conversations of eternal value. When working in other cultures and people of other faiths, Christ s message of peace is our starting point. We believe everyone has the right to hear this message and our hope is to see fellowships of believers worshipping and following Jesus in every nation, tribe and tongue. 2) Training YWAM training teaches you to explore and share your faith. A wide variety of specialized training programs equip students with skills that can be applied in many situations to convey the love of Christ and participate practically in missions. YWAM schools usually take place within a YWAM community at one of our centers around the world. They combine classroom teaching with ongoing discipleship and practical service. Most programs incorporate several weeks of application activities, often in another culture, where the principles learned are practiced in order to accelerate learning.ywam s discipleship and training programs aim to equip followers of Christ to serve more effectively in a variety of missionary fields. It all starts with the Discipleship Training School (DTS) which is a unique opportunity to focus on building your relationship with God and discover new opportunities to work with Him. 3) Mercy Ministries If you believe it, you have to live it. YWAM Mercy Ministry teams follow Jesus example of compassion to those in need. We operate relief and development programs in over 100 countries, working among people living in desperate circumstances. Our volunteers serve in areas such as agricultural assistance, health care, micro enterprise development and with women and children at risk. Their goal is to ease suffering and provide hope for those affected by poverty, disease or injustice. YWAM teams responded to critical situations such as Hurricane Katrina, the Pakistani earthquake, and the Asian tsunami and they remain in long-term community development efforts in these and other places never seen on the news. University of the Nations The University of the Nations, born out of YWAM, is the world s first global university. With more than 400 locations in 110 countries, the U of N is a university for missions. U of N is comprised of seven colleges designed to bring God s truth and hope to the seven most influential areas of society. These colleges include: the College of Christian Ministries, the College of Communication, the College of Counseling and Health Care, the College of Education, the College of Humanities and International Studies, the College of the Arts, and the College of Science and Technology. As a student in the U of N, you are nurtured as a whole person, not just as a head to be filled with information. You learn in a discipling environment where growth in character and walking in the ways of the Lord are fundamental. You study only one subject at a time in a 12-week modular system, each approached from a Christian perspective. One U of N course may be equivalent to several other university courses. The university encourages and trains the young as well as the more experienced who are considering a new career to serve the world for Christ s sake. Most courses offer a variety of guest instructors and professionals, teaching in their area of expertise. Theory and hands on practice 15

16 are blended, both in courses as well as on outreaches, field assignments, and internships, emphasizing service and experience now rather than after two or four years of classroom study. Many people who are currently making a large impact in our world have received their Bachelors or Masters degree from the University of the Nations. Foundational Values The Foundational Values of Youth With A Mission are the expression of our basic beliefs, coupled with specific directives given by God since YWAM's beginning in They are recorded here in order to pass on to successive generations that which God has emphasized to us. These shared beliefs and values are the guiding principles for both the past and future growth of our Mission. Some are common to all Christians everywhere; others are distinctive to Youth With A Mission. The combination of these beliefs and values make up the unique family characteristics of YWAM--our "DNA." They are values we hold in high regard, which determine who we are, how we live and how we make decisions. 1. KNOW GOD- YWAM is committed to know God, His nature, His character and His ways. We seek to reflect who He is in every aspect of our lives and ministry. The automatic overflow of knowing and enjoying fellowship with God is a desire to share Him with others. 2. MAKE GOD KNOWN- YWAM is called to make God known throughout the whole world, and into every area of society through evangelism, training and mercy ministries. We believe that salvation of souls should result in transformation of societies, thus obeying Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations. 3. HEAR GOD'S VOICE- YWAM is committed to creating with God through listening to Him, praying His prayers and obeying His commands in matters great and small. We are dependent upon hearing His voice as individuals, together in team contexts and in larger corporate gatherings, as an integral part of our process for decision making. 4. PRACTICE WORSHIP AND INTERCESSORY PRAYER- YWAM is dedicated to worshipping Jesus and engaging in intercessory prayer as integral aspects of daily life. We also recognize the intent of Satan to destroy the work of God and we call upon God s power and the Holy Spirit to overcome his strategies in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of nations. 5. BE VISIONARY- YWAM is called to be visionary, continually receiving, nurturing and releasing fresh vision from God. We support the pioneering of new ministries and methods, always willing to be radical in order to be relevant to every generation, people group, and sphere of society. We believe that the apostolic call of YWAM requires the integration of spiritual eldership, freedom in the Spirit and relationship, centered on the Word of God. 6. CHAMPION YOUNG PEOPLE- YWAM is called to champion youth. We believe God has gifted and called young people to spearhead vision and ministry. We are committed to value, trust, train, support, make space and release them. They are not only the Church of the future; they are the Church of today. We commit to follow where they lead, in the will of God. 7. BE BROAD-STRUCTURED AND DECENTRALIZED- YWAM is broad-structured and diverse, yet integrated. We are a global family of ministries held together by shared purpose, vision, values and relationship. We believe that structures should serve the people and the purposes of God. Every ministry at every level has the privilege and responsibility of accountability to a circle of elders, with overall international accountability to the YWAM Global Leadership Team. 8. BE INTERNATIONAL AND INTERDENOMINATIONAL- YWAM is international and interdenominational in its global scope as well as its local constituency. We believe that ethnic, linguistic and denominational diversity, along with redeemed aspects of culture, are positive factors that contribute to the health and growth of the Mission. 9. HAVE A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW- YWAM is called to a Biblical Worldview. We believe that the Bible makes a clear division between good and evil; right and wrong. The practical dimensions of life are no less spiritual than the ministry expressions. Everything done in obedience to God is spiritual. We seek to honor God with all that we do, equipping and mobilizing men and women of God to take roles of service and influence in every area of society. 10. FUNCTION IN TEAMS- YWAM is called to function in teams in all aspects of ministry and leadership. We believe that a combination of complementary gifts, callings, perspectives, ministries and generations working together in unity at all levels of our Mission provides wisdom and safety. Seeking God's will and making decisions in a team context allows accountability and contributes to greater relationship, motivation, responsibility and ownership of the vision. 11. EXHIBIT SERVANT LEADERSHIP- YWAM is called to servant leadership as a lifestyle, rather than a leadership hierarchy. A servant leader is one who honors the gifts and callings of those under his/her care and guards their 16

17 rights and privileges. Just as Jesus served His disciples, we stress the importance of those with leadership responsibilities serving those whom they lead. 12. DO FIRST, THEN TEACH- YWAM is committed to doing first, then teaching. We believe that firsthand experience gives authority to our words. Godly character and a call from God are more important then an individuals gifts, abilities and expertise. 13. BE RELATIONSHIP-ORIENTED- YWAM is dedicated to being relationship-oriented in our living and working together. We desire to be united through lives of holiness, mutual support, transparency, humility, and open communication, rather than a dependence on structures or rules. 14. VALUE THE INDIVIDUAL- YWAM is called to value each individual. We believe in equal opportunity and justice for all. Created in the image of God, people of all nationalities, ages and functions have distinctive contributions and callings. We are committed to honoring God-given leadership and ministry gifts in both men and women. 15. VALUE FAMILIES- YWAM affirms the importance of families serving God together in missions, not just the father and/or mother. We encourage the development of strong and healthy family units, with each member sharing the call to missions and contributing their gifts in unique and complementary ways. 16. RELY ON RELATIONSHIP-BASED SUPPORT- YWAM is called to a relationship-based support system, depending upon God and His people for financial provision, both corporately and individually. We believe that relationshipbased support promotes responsibility, accountability, communication, and mutual prayer. It involves the donor as a partner in ministry. As God and others have been generous toward us, so we desire to be generous. YWAMers give themselves, their time and talents to God through the Mission with no expectation of remuneration. 17. PRACTICE HOSPITALITY- YWAM affirms the ministry of hospitality as an expression of God's character and the value of people. We believe it is important to open our hearts, homes, campuses and bases to serve and honor one another, our guests and the poor and needy, not as acts of social protocol, but as expressions of generosity. 17

18 Endorsements Loren Cunningham has been one of the most adventuresome visionaries of our time. What he has accomplished staggers the imagination. God gave him a dream and he lived it out very few of us do that. Wherever I go I seem to run into people who have been discipled into radical discipleship by YWAM. Those who have been a part of their program prove to be a great gift to churches around the world. Their spirituality, their ability to witness, and their commitment to take seriously the teachings of Christ have impacted Christendom. I can safely say that YWAM is one of the most important and effective movements in Christendom today. - Dr. Tony Campolo, Professor Emeritus of Sociology, Eastern College, Founder and President of Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education Whenever I m traveling and speaking internationally and meet high-committed, servant-oriented Christian leaders, I think to myself, Another YWAMer! I m rarely mistaken. I am so grateful for the work of YWAM and for the intensity with which you do it. - Bill Hybels, Founder and Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church Over the last 40 years, Youth With A Mission has become one of the premier missionary organizations in the world. Not only has it effectively spread the gospel and ministered to practical needs of the underprivileged around the globe, it has captured the imagination and energy of young people, infusing them with a vision and providing a unique way for reaching the lost! - Bill McCartney, CEO and Chairman of the Board, Promise Keepers I have observed firsthand the magnificent, mighty way the Lord has used Youth With A Mission. It is Biblical, Christcentered, and Spirit-empowered. Dynamic evangelism is coupled with profound caring for people. - Pastor Lloyd Ogilvie, President, Leadership Unlimited; former Chaplain of the United States Senate The expansion of God s kingdom has been accelerated by the phenomenal mobilization efforts of Youth With A Mission. The vision and creativity of YWAM has inspired and challenged other Great Commission organizations to greater boldness and innovation for reaching our world for Jesus Christ. - Dr. Jerry Rankin, President Emeritus, International Mission Board, Southern Baptist Convention; Head, Zwemer Center for Muslim Studies at Columbia International University From my early days in Afghanistan where I watched YWAM and its vision changing the lives of young druggies to the dozens of international partnerships for evangelism among major unreached people, it has been a joy to work with Loren Cunningham, his wide ranging team and those who carry the Kingdom vision within YWAM. I believe that YWAM is one of the most significant forces in the world for the Gospel; something God has raised up uniquely in the latter half of the last century to make a huge impact in this new millennium. It is a privilege to know and to work with its leadership team. - Phil Butler, CEO, InterDev There are two places where I regularly meet YWAMers, on the field and in our organization! You are where the action is and you instill vision and long-term commitment in the lives of the people you touch! As a tentmaking mission with a long-term view of ministry in limited access countries, InterServe is thankful for the experiences many of our people have had with YWAM in the formative years of their ministry. Thank you for your godly example! - Ralph W. Eckardt, former US Director, InterServe YWAM is a wonderful blessing to the whole body of Christ. Their courageous pioneer spirit is helping to take the gospel to the most remote corners of the world. - Paul Eshleman, Founder, The JESUS Film Project YWAM is a powerful voice for Christ around the world. I am pleased and proud to salute Loren Cunningham and all of those faithful people with whom he has served over these four decades. May God continue to guide this pioneering venture in the years ahead. - Millard Fuller, late Founder, Habitat for Humanity International, Inc. It has been my privilege over the years to observe and participate with Youth With A Mission on numerous projects around the world. Their focus on evangelism is always great. YWAM has a tremendous team of dedicated servants of the Lord and I always marvel at how God has been able to use them in so many strategic areas of the world. - Franklin Graham, President and CEO, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association 18

19 YWAM has made a tremendous impact over the years in challenging both young and old alike to make themselves available to Christ for service in worldwide missions. I remember when I first came in contact with YWAM in Nepal in In those days you were known as Dilaram House and you had a special ministry with world travelers. My wife and I were impressed with the dedication and the servant hearts of your workers. Over the years many of the children of our members have joined YWAM to work in various ministries around the world. Some of your short-term workers have joined us in the Bible translation task. We have counted it as a privilege to be partners with you in carrying out the Great Commission. We are praying that the Lord will continue to show us ways in which we can partner together in reaching the remaining unreached people groups of the world in the coming years. - Dick Hugoniot, former President, Wycliffe Bible Translators International When I think of YWAM, I am reminded of the many people that have spread out around the world sharing Christ s love in many new ways and bringing the life-saving message of the cross to the lost of this world. Ordinary people that are filled with the Holy Spirit doing great things for God. - Paul C. Kennel, President, World Concern In addition to the many people who have come to know the Lord Jesus as a result of the ministry of YWAM, there has been an amazing work of character-building in the lives of many YWAM staff on the bases and in DTSes. - Dominic Magwada, Africa Regional Director, Opportunity International, Harare, Zimbabwe Through living by faith, putting others first and consistently finding joy in giving to others in need makes all of you YWAMers a daily source of inspiration and faith renewal for me. I pray that many more businessmen in the world have the blessing of encountering YWAM as I have. The world is a better place and even a place of more hope thanks to the unique reflection of Christ s love through YWAM. - Ranjan Marwah, Chairman, Executive Access Limited, Hong Kong It [YWAM] is probably the most significant seedbed for leadership in the Christian movement today. So many people of vision now in pastorates and other leadership positions have been impacted by and have come out of that ministry. It is this that makes YWAM one of the more influential movements in our Christian world today, if not the most influential. - Paul McKaughan, Ambassador at Large, The Missions Exchange YWAM is a unique contribution to world mission. YWAM has been highly effective in attracting mission entrepreneurs, especially among young people, and mobilizing them for a wide range of important mission work. Sprawling, sometimes messy and very nimble, YWAM s entrepreneurial spirit is the envy of the larger, more structured missions. YWAM s dependence on the movement of the Spirit of God in directing its work is a witness to all of us. - Bryant Myers, Professor of Transformational Development, Fuller Theological Seminary; former Vice-President, World Vision YWAM has contributed significantly to the Kingdom through its diverse range of ministries. I have known many YWAM programs and missionaries and appreciate the significant contribution each has made to the growth of the Kingdom of God. I appreciate the significant contribution that you have made to helping the poor and needy. - Vinay Samuel, Executive Director, The Oxford Centre for Mission Studies, Oxford, England The ministry of YWAM has grown considerably over the past four decades. It is now, in my estimation, one of the most strategic agencies penetrating the mission frontier. - Tetsunao Ted Yamamori, President Emeritus, Food for the Hungry International For breadth of involvement, magnitude and creativity, few organizations can match the dynamic distinctives of YWAM. God has greatly used Loren Cunningham and the thousands who have served with YWAM. And many, many will be eternally grateful as a result. - David Cummings, former International President, Wycliffe Bible Translators I know of no other organization in the Christian missionary field that has produced and continues to produce such outstanding, mature and Spirit-led young men and women. - David Aikman, author and former TIME Magazine editor, Washington D.C. My life has been so powerfully impacted by missions. I ve been involved with trips to Calcutta, India, to Bucharest, Romania, to Ecuador. And I have seen God move through those trips powerfully in my life and seen how God uses 19

20 that to change people s lives in those countries. I have had some very close friends of mine who have worked with Youth With A Mission and been on mission trips and their lives have been radically turned around by working with this ministry. So, I encourage people considering going on a missions trip to link up with YWAM because it is an incredible ministry. - Rebecca Saint James, Musician I am a big believer in the roaring lambs philosophy of showing our faith through our actions, not just our words. That s what I admire about YWAM they take this philosophy worldwide! - Michael W. Smith, Contemporary Christian Musician We have come to admire the dedication and effectiveness of the work done by YWAM amongst refugees and other disadvantaged communities in South East Asia. Only Christ-inspired dedication and love for our fellow human beings in distress could result in such wonderful work being done, often under the most difficult circumstances. YWAM truly represents Christianity in action and is making a difference in this world where the need is greatest. - Roel and Corila Goris, former South African Ambassador to Thailand, Pretoria, South Africa We all rejoice in the way God has blessed this organization in reaching people all over the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. Keep up the good work. You have my support and my prayers. - Billy Graham, Evangelist, Author, Retired from Billy Graham Evangelistic Association 2005 YWAM s training schools and short-term outreach programs have provided opportunities for thousands of young people who were raised in our affluent society to experience the reality of life in other parts of the world. Through these experiences, the students have found a greater understanding of the breadth of God s love, and many have committed their lives to church ministry or missionary work. I am grateful for their influence on the youth of American culture and around the world. - Dr. Dallas Willard, late author and Professor of Philosophy, University of Southern California YWAM s willingness to take anyone, starting with short-term placements, has meant that many thousands, including myself, have experienced the adventure of faith service and been permanently transformed by the experience. - Erica Youngman, March for Jesus I endorse YWAM s ministry and support wholeheartedly their endeavors and obedience to the Lord s Great Commission and calling. I have been involved through the first DTS in Zimbabwe in 1973, DTS in Lausanne, Switzerland in 1975, various European staff conferences, outreaches to the Montreal Olympic Games and to Japan in It was through my involvement with YWAM that I acquired a vision for the lost. I was exposed to a wealth of teaching and practical discipleship which has equipped me for serving the Lord here in South Africa. My heart is filled with gratitude towards YWAM and all those involved in the ministry that I send my warmest greetings. I pray God will use you more mightily than ever before for His glory and His kingdom. - Denise Tate, Lecturer, Foundation Ministries Bible Training College, East London, South Africa YWAM Staff 20

21 Making It Easy to Support You We have compiled a donation instruction sheet for you to print out for your supporters. These are very convenient to have ready to hand out when someone expresses interest in supporting you. Donation Options Letter Dear YWAM Supporter, To print for your own use, see copy on page 43 Youth With a Mission is a volunteer organization with over 20,000 staff worldwide relying on God to provide financial partners such as church and friends. As one of 1,000 operating locations in YWAM, we thank you for your generous support which keeps us active in the various ministries God has called us to. Your gift to missions is always a sound investment, as we are dedicated to discipling youth to make a greater impact with the gospel in their generation. Thank you for your generosity! One Time Donation Online 1. Visit 2. Select Give Towards a Student s Lecture and Outreach Tuition 3. Specify your amount and click Add to Cart 4. Click Proceed to Checkout 5. Enter your information and specify who the donation is for 6. Click Place Order 7. You will be ed a receipt Donate by Check Please make check payable to Youth With a Mission or YWAM. Do not put the missionary s name anywhere on the check, enclose a separate note to designate this donation for them. We will alert your designated missionary of your donation. Send checks to: Youth With a Mission Salem Attn: Accounting 7085 Battle Creek Rd. SE Salem, OR *We are unable to process checks with the missionary s name written anywhere on the check. Checks received in this condition will be returned to you, the donor. Please don't hesitate to contact the YWAM Salem Accounting Office if you have any questions! accounting@ywamsalem.org Phone: ext. 308 Sincerely, YWAM Salem Accounting Team 21

22 Keeping Contacts & Supporters Updated Newsletters Your job with a contact isn t over once they ve committed to support you. It is your responsibility to keep your supporters and your non donor contacts updated on your ministry. The best way to do this is by sending newsletters. Sending out newsletters makes supporters less likely to drop and non donors more likely to become supporters. Here are a few tips on how to create a newsletter. We recommend sending 2 newsletter updates during your school, one at the end of lecture and one when you get back from Outreach. Do your best to be prompt in sending these out. You can either send physical newsletters or professional looking s Hard copy newsletters are more likely to get read especially with the older generations mailchimp.com can be a great way to make good looking s Cast vision using a good story of a changed life Include lots of pictures & color. Short videos can be helpful if you are using . Leave a lot of white space. Too much text is too much work to read. Use bullet points and short paragraphs. Promotional material is available on our website ywamsalem.org Be sincere and thankful in your newsletters This is not a place to ask for money. Do that separately. Include personal info so they can get to know you (hobbies, books you ve read, roommates, etc.) Send it to all your contacts (Supporters, Special Gift Supporters and Non Donors) Leave bullet points for prayer requests and answered prayer Include your contact information For information on how to utilize social media, see page 23 Thank You s Thank you cards and gifts are essential to let your supporters know how much you appreciate them. Here are some tips. Write a prompt handwritten letter after you have received a new monthly supporter or a special gift Postcards or small gifts from outreach locations can make great thank you cards Keep a record of everyone you ve thanked so you don t miss anyone or thank them twice Be genuine and make sure each card is personalized 22

23 How to Use Social Media in Your Support Raising Social media is an amazing resource to help you raise support for your DTS, if you know how to use it. Here are a few Dos/Don ts: DO create a personal campaign to help fund your way through Lecture Phase and Outreach. A few sites that are helpful: gofundme.com and crowdrise.com. Both allow you to tell your story, share it on Facebook with friends and family, and make it easy for you to accept donations. DON T Create a campaign and simply post a link to it on facebook. You won t raise money if you take out the relational aspect. Call you friends/family and tell them where to find the link, ask them personally to support you. DO create a blog and actually use it. Blogs are great if you want to go into detail and share what you ve been learning, how God is moving in your life, and what Outreach looks like. Share about the culture you re experiencing and the people you re meeting on Outreach. Here are some easy to use and free blogging sites: wordpress.com, blogger.com, tumblr.com. DO use Facebook to keep people informed with short, quick updates. However, DON T create long, detailed status updates. That s what the blog is for. DO include the link to your blog in Facebook updates. DO use MailChimp.com for easy to create and send newsletters. When you create an update using MailChimp, be sure to share it on Facebook. DON T overwhelm your Facebook friends with dozens of updates a week. Too many posts means that people will start to scroll past your updates. Make your updates meaningful and well-thought out. You can do this by occasionally including pictures so that friends and family can see what you re doing during Lecture Phase and Outreach. Photos generate more interaction. DO be specific about what you need - the amount of money, the prayer requests, the supplies you need. DON T start using a social networking platform and then abandon it. Create a schedule for your posts and be consistent. DO try other social networking platforms like Instagram and Twitter. DO know the best times to post. Think about when your friends and family check Facebook so that they will see your posts. For example, you wouldn t post on a Friday night because less people will be online. DON T take the relationship out of support raising. At the end of the day, this is all about relationships. If you re going to ask specific people for money, make your interactions with them personal. You are inviting people to take part in your story, your ministry. 23

24 Appendix 24

25 Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON Dear YWAM Supporter, Youth With a Mission is a volunteer organization with over 20,000 staff worldwide relying on God to provide financial partners such as church and friends. As one of 1,000 operating locations in YWAM, we thank you for your generous support which keeps us active in the various ministries God has called us to. Your gift to missions is always a sound investment, as we are dedicated to discipling youth to make a greater impact with the gospel in their generation. Thank you for your generosity! One Time Donation Online 1. Visit 2. Select Give Towards a Student s Lecture and Outreach Tuition 3. Specify your amount and click Add to Cart 4. Click Proceed to Checkout 5. Enter your information and specify who the donation is for 6. Click Place Order 7. You will be ed a receipt Donate by Check Please make check payable to Youth With a Mission or YWAM. Do not put the missionary s name anywhere on the check, enclose a separate note to designate this donation for them. We will alert your designated missionary of your donation. Send checks to: Youth With a Mission Salem Attn: Accounting 7085 Battle Creek Rd. SE Salem, OR *We are unable to process checks with the missionary s name written anywhere on the check. Checks received in this condition will be returned to you, the donor. Please don't hesitate to contact the YWAM Salem Accounting Office if you have any questions! accounting@ywamsalem.org Phone: ext. 308 Sincerely, YWAM Salem Accounting Team 25

26 Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON Please Return; My Name Mailing Address: YWAM Salem 7085 Battle Creek Rd SE Salem, OR Your Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Please check all that apply: Enclosed is a one-time gift I am committing to support you monthly with $ I will commit to you in prayer Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON Please Return; My Name Mailing Address: YWAM Salem 7085 Battle Creek Rd SE Salem, OR Your Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Please check all that apply: Enclosed is a one-time gift I am committing to support you monthly with $ I will commit to you in prayer I would like to receive your newsletters Youth With a Mission SALEM OREGON Please Return; Mailing Address: My Name YWAM Salem 7085 Battle Creek Rd SE Salem, OR Your Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Please check all that apply: Enclosed is a one-time gift I am committing to support you monthly with $ I will commit to you in prayer I would like to receive your newsletters 26