MPD M ANUAL
Sending Christ-centered, Fully-funded Laborers into the Harvest
to Help Build Spiritual Movements Everywhere
And my God will meet all your needs
according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Prepared by
The Ministry Partner Development Office
Campus Crusade for Christ
Updated 3-2010
COPYRIGHT © 1985 - 2010 by
CAMPUS CRUSADE FOR CHRIST, INTERNATIONAL
100 Lake Hart Drive, Orlando, FL 32832
All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright laws may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any
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written permission of the Ministry Partner Development Office of Campus Crusade for Christ. The materials covered by this
copyright may not be used for any commercial or personal gain.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Perspective .......................................................................................................................................1
Assignment Checklist and Assignments...................................................................................... 2-6
Principles of MPD...................................................................................................................... 7-14
Potential MPD Strategies......................................................................................................... 15-16
Face-to-Face Appointments ..................................................................................................... 17-31
Pre-call Letters ..................................................................................................................
18-19
Setting Up the Appointment .................................................................................................. 20-24
The Appointment ................................................................................................................ 25-28
Building a Referral Network ................................................................................................. 29-30
Calling Back for a Decision
................................................................................................. 31-32
Thanking and Receiving the First Check.................................................................................. 33-34
Letter/Telephone Strategy........................................................................................................ 35-40
Church Presentations ............................................................................................................... 41-43
Cultivation......................................................................................................................................44
Worst MPD Ideas Ever ..................................................................................................................45
Question and Answer............................................................................................................... 46-50
My Top Seven MPD Action Steps ................................................................................................51
MINISTRY PARTNER DEVELOPMENT (MPD)
Perspective
In a unique way, God has chosen to use men and women throughout history as the driving force behind the
expansion of His church. As the Great Awakenings of past centuries began (which were the seeds of missionary
expansion), many gathered to pray. While experiencing personal and corporate spiritual renewal, those involved
invariably came away with a burning desire to help evangelize the world in their generation.
The torch now has been passed to you and to a new generation of Christians. You have accepted the challenge of
helping to reach the world for Christ by becoming a volunteer. One of your responsibilities in accepting this
challenge is to represent Christ's cause to others. As Christ's ambassador, you are in a unique position to invite
others to invest financially in His cause. As you invite individuals to participate in your ministry through their
giving, you will be giving them the unparalleled opportunity of investing in eternity (Matthew 6:19-21).
\
During MPD Remember:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your
own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
And my God will meet all your needs according to His
glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil
prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to
devour.
1 Peter 5:8
King David had such an opportunity when he challenged the people to underwrite the cost of building a temple for
the Lord.
The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and
wholeheartedly to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly…“But who am I, and who are my
people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have
given you only what comes from your hand.” (1 Chronicles 29:9, 14)
Because David knew that all the world's wealth ultimately belonged to God, he boldly challenged others to channel
their resources toward building a physical testimony to the Lord: a temple. As you raise funds, you will be
channeling the resources of God's people toward building a human testimony: a witness for Christ.
As you enter this new and exciting phase of your life, you will see that MPD is a big job. Start now, pray, and ask
someone to hold you accountable to do your best. You will see God at work in ways you may never have seen
before as He provides for you to serve Him as a volunteer with GoCorps.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 1
PRE- AND POST-GO WEEK ASSIGNMENTS
PRE-GO WEEK CHECKLIST
COMPLETED
Register for GO Week at WWW.GOCORPS.ORG and send in GO Week deposit
PRE-GO WEEK ASSIGNMENTS
Read “Namestorm a List of Prospective Ministry Partners.”
Namestorm a list of 200 prospective partners.
Complete “What is your Vision?” worksheet.
Practice articulating a clear vision for your ministry (page 5).
Write your Calling Testimony using the accompanying worksheet (page 6).
Download the database program TntMPD http://www.tntware.com/tntmpd/
Enter contacts into TntMPD. Read through user guides on website.
[If you have a Mac you will not be able to use this software and we will give you other
instructions at GO Week]
POST- GO WEEK ASSIGNMENTS
•
•
•
•
•
GoCorps MPD Manual - 2
COMPLETED
COMPLETED
NAMESTORMING POTENTIAL CONTACTS
Brainstorming is the process by which you list a group of ideas without judgment or evaluation. Namestorming is a
similar process in which you list all the people you can think of who are potential contacts for MPD. To effectively
namestorm, do the following:
•
Pray each day that the Lord will bring to your attention names of individuals whom you should contact.
•
Create an initial contact list by namestorming everyone who comes to mind. To begin this process, write down
all the groups of people with which you have been involved, such as church, Sunday School, Bible studies,
prayer groups, etc.
•
Enter all the names into TntMPD (http://www.tntware.com/tntmpd/). If you were not able to download the
program, write down names on a partner contact card (index card). Do not count anyone out. The average
person knows hundreds of people. Everyone is a candidate!
•
The following list will help you think of potential contacts. Begin praying for those you plan to contact.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 3
CATEGORIES FOR NAMESTORMING
Advertising agencies
Apartment manager
Architect
Attorneys
Auto dealer or mechanic
Basketball team
Bank president
Barber
Bible bookstore owners
Bible studies/prayer groups
Bottling companies
Boy/Girl Scout leader
Brothers
Building contractors
Chamber of Commerce
Directories
Children's teachers
Christian businessmen or
women
Christmas card lists
Church choir director and
members
Church directories
Church friends
Church missions committee
Church-related publications
Church staff
Civic clubs
Coaches
Community leaders
Computer programmer
Corporate executives
Dentist
Dentist's Assistant
Dermatologist
Doctor
Downtown businesses
Editor of local paper
Family attorney
Farmers or ranchers
Fast-food restaurants
Florist or jeweler
Former customers
Former employers
Former college professors
Former high school teachers
Former Volunteers
Former salesmen
Former GoCorps volunteers
Foundations
Fraternity brothers
Friends of parents
Garbage collector
Government employees
Grocery store owner or manager
High school/college friends
High school/college profs.
Insurance salesman
Kiwanis Club
Jaycees
Labor union representatives
Mailman
Mayor and other civic leaders
Military personnel
Missionary societies
Neighborhood watch
Neighbors
Neighbors at former residences
Nurses
Newspaper editor/writers
Office building directory
Parents
Parents' associates
GoCorps MPD Manual - 4
Parents' employers
Pastors
People you have led to Christ
Pharmacist
Phone operator
Pilots
Plumbers or electrician
Policeman
Printers
Real estate agent
Real estate developers
Referrals
Relatives
Restaurant managers
Retired people
Rotary Club
Sales people
School annuals
School principals
Secretaries/receptionists
Self-employed
Servicemen
Service representatives
Service station manager
Shoe salesman
Sisters
Small group
Sorority sisters
Staff friends
Sunday School classes
Tax accountants
Teammates
Telephone directory
TV/radio stations
Veterinarian
Wedding list
Women's clubs
WHAT IS YOUR VISION?
It is important that you can communicate a compelling vision for your ministry. People give to people justified by
the cause. Use the following questions to help hone your vision.
1.
Why do you believe God has called you to be a volunteer with GoCorps? (Write out the reasons why you
believe He has called you to GoCorps.) What verses did God use to confirm this direction and decision?
2.
What is the personal vision God has given you to help fulfill the Great Commission? What kind of impact
are you trusting God to make through you in this ministry?
3.
How do you hope God will use you during your year as a volunteer?
4.
What do you hope will be the end result?
GoCorps MPD Manual - 5
YOUR CALLING TESTIMONY
Write out an expanded version of each of these questions. Then tighten up your answers so you can give it in three
to six sentences when sharing your calling with someone.
When and how did you first sense your call to ministry?
I.
Think through the following questions to help you articulate this.
A. Was there a particular time when you sensed God’s call to go overseas after graduation? What were the
circumstances?
B. How did God call you through His Word?
C. Was there a person God used in calling you to serve overseas in a mid-term mission?
D. Were there any other circumstances God used to call you?
II.
Write a three to six sentence tightened-up version of the above.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 6
PRINCIPLES OF MPD
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Principles of MPD
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Seven principles to help you understand
fund raising as a life-giving, hope-filled
expression of ministry
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Introduction: Belief Systems
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Your belief systems affect your behavior and
responses.
What you believe to be true controls your
responses more than objective truth.
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Belief Systems
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Luke 6:45
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Philippians 4:8
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2 Corinthians 10:5
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 7
Belief Systems
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“Right thinking is not mind over matter, but truth
over error.”
-- Charles Stanley
“Spiritual battle is not a power struggle, but a
truth struggle.”
-- Neil Anderson
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Principle 1: Fundraising Is Biblical.
Example of the Levites (Numbers 18: 8-32)
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Example of Jesus (Luke 8:1-3)
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Example of Paul (2 Corinthians 11:7-9)
The Lord intends His work to be dependent
upon His people giving of their resources.
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Principle 2: Fundraising Is Ministry.
A call to conversion—a new way for people to relate
to their resources
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Proclaiming the work of God
Giving people the opportunity to honor the Lord with
their wealth
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Unleashing America’s wealth for Kingdom work
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 8
Principle 3: People Need to Give.
Giving is God-Purposed:
Giving as part of being created in God’s
image
John 3:16
Giving as obedience to Scripture
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Giving as an offering to the Lord
Philippians 4:18
Giving as storing up treasure in heaven
Matthew 6:19-21
People Need to Give.
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Reasons people give:
Love for Christ
To be partners
Joining with someone in something worthwhile,
larger than themselves with eternal significance
To participate vicariously in ministry
To accomplish a purpose or a mission
To meet a need
For the blessing and enjoyment
For tax credit
People Need to Give.
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People need to give far more than any person or cause
has the need to receive.
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts
20:35)
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“Give, and it will be given to you…” (Luke 6:38)
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“Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for
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what may be credited to your account.” (Philippians
4:17)
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 9
Principle 4: People Need to be
Asked.
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If you do not ask, the answer is always “no.”
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Asking creates awareness.
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Read and discuss principles of asking from
I Kings 17:1-16.
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People Need to be Asked
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I Kings 17:1-16
Principle #1:
God will not always say, “This is the one!”
Principle #2:
The one God has chosen to give may not know that
he or she is to give.
Principle #3:
The person God has chosen to give may not have
much to give. The giver needs to give far more than
any person or cause has the need to receive.
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People Need to be Asked.
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I Kings 17:1-16
Principle #4:
Sometimes the messenger needs to nudge the giver
to take steps of faith in giving.
Principle #5:
When we know God’s call and promise, we cannot
allow circumstances to deter us.
Principle #6:
Faith and obedience are required for both the
messenger and the one receiving the message.
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 10
People Need to be Asked.
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“Asking people for money is giving them the
opportunity to put their resources at the disposal of
the Kingdom. To raise funds is to offer people the
chance to invest what they have in the work of God.
Whether they have much or little is not as important
as the possibility of making their money available for
God.”
--Henri Nouwen
(The Spirituality of Fundraising)
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Principle 5: People Need to be
Appreciated.
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Avoid ingratitude.
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Luke 17:11-19
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People Need to be Appreciated.
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Thank specifically.
Preserves and promotes giving
Reflects a motive that God can honor and
bless
Must be timely
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Thank continually.
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In prayer letters
With phone calls
With gifts
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 11
Principle 6: MPD Must be Visiondriven.
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You need to cast a compelling vision to
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prospective partners and current partners in
such a way that they see, and deeply feel,
that something needs to be done about
solving the problem.
People need a vision, not a sales pitch.
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People give to people justified by the cause.
MPD Must be Vision-driven
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Nehemiah: a vision caster (Nehemiah 2:17-18)
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Must show the problem
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“You see the trouble we are in…”
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“…Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have
been burned with fire.”
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MPD Must be Vision-driven.
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Nehemiah: a vision caster
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Must cast the vision
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“…We will no longer be in disgrace.”
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“I also told them about the gracious hand of my
God upon me and what the king had said to me.”
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 12
MPD Must be Vision-driven
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Nehemiah: a vision caster
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Must ask for a response
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“Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem…”
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MPD Must be Vision-driven.
“Fundraising is proclaiming what you believe in and
proclaiming it in such a way that you offer the person
an opportunity to participate in your vision. So it is
precisely the opposite of begging. It’s not saying,
‘please we have a problem could you help us out
because lately it has been hard.’ It is saying, ‘We
have a vision that is so exciting that we are giving
you the opportunity to participate in that vision with
the resources God has given you.”
--Henri Nouwen
(The Spirituality of Fundraising)
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MPD Must be Vision-driven.
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Answer the questions.
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What is my vision for my ministry?
In one sentence, what is my mission?
What do I want the world, campus, etc., to
look like when God fulfills the vision?
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The importance of stories
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 13
Principle 7: MPD Needs Community,
not Isolation.
And let us consider how we may spur one
another on toward love and good deeds. Let
us not give up meeting together, as some
are in the habit of doing, but let us
encourage one another and all the more as
you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews
10:24-25)
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MPD Needs Community, not
Isolation.
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It is easy for MPD to become a private
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activity.
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Avoid isolation in MPD.
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Encouragement and accountability result
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from MPD in community.
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Seven Principles of MPD
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Fundraising is Biblical.
Fundraising is ministry.
People need to give.
People need to be asked.
People need to be appreciated.
MPD must be vision-driven.
MPD needs community, not isolation.
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GoCorps MPD Manual - 14
POTENTIAL MPD STRATEGIES
Developing your support is dependent, ultimately, upon the Lord. Developing your financial support quickly is
dependent upon at least three variables:
•
•
•
How many people you contact (quantity)
The desire and ability of each contact to give (quality)
Your Spirit-filled hard work (working smart, hard, and quickly)
Your strategy, therefore, should seek to maximize each of these three variables. Pray and trust God for His wisdom
(James 1:4-6).
Following is a list of strategies that have proven successful in developing ministry partners. There is no method that
guarantees success. Most people use a combination of strategies.
Think through how many strategies you can employ from one location. Develop a realistic picture of how long you
will need to stay in one location to carry out your MPD strategy. Hit and run does not work!
Face-to-Face Appointments
This strategy is traditionally the best method to raise ongoing support. It involves meeting individually with a
person in his home or office and presenting your ministry. (Always remember to ask for referrals.)
Business Community
This strategy involves such things as contacting local business professionals and/or speaking at the Rotary Club,
Kiwanis, Lions, CBMC, and other similar groups. Try to follow up personally with all who attend for face-to-face
appointments.
Small Dinners
This involves setting up a dinner in a home and inviting a small group of people (three to four couples or the
equivalent number of singles is ideal) to hear about your ministry. You or someone else can set up the dinner, but
the key is to spend a few hours with a small group of people, sharing your ministry but also getting to know them.
Later, call each who attended for a decision.
Key People
A key person can help by contacting others for you or even setting up appointments for you. It is usually someone
who is well known and/or has many contacts to whom he can refer you. This person needs to have the ability to
clearly communicate your ministry.
Working Through Local Churches
You may have contacts in a church and can work with the pastor or key people in contacting others. In addition, you
can talk to Sunday School classes, Bible study groups, and men’s and women's fellowship groups. Whenever you
speak to a group, the best approach is to contact each individual for a face-to-face appointment as soon as possible. .
It's also important to have a follow up card available with their details either at a table in the back of the room with
your flyer or pass it out at the time of the presentation. (See “Church Presentations” for more details.)
Please contact the pastor first if you plan to contact a substantial number of people in a particular church. Do not
call through a church directory under any condition. Calling through a directory violates GoCorps policy. But it
is also much more effective to get referrals than to “cold call” through a directory.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 15
Letter/Telephone Strategy
This strategy can be very effective and is much less costly than traveling to distant locations. See the
Letter/Telephone Strategy section for ways to challenge people to become ministry partners by mail and follow up
that challenge with a phone call.
Phone Presentation
This is another long distance strategy that many are finding to be effective. It’s like a “Face-to-Face Appointment”
in that you present your ministry to an individual, but it takes place over the telephone. . This is especially helpful
with friends or relatives who live far away but would be interested in what you're doing now that you're graduating.
Choosing Which Strategies You Will Use
As you can see, there are many different strategies. Prayerfully consider your initial contact list. Think through
potential locations: your hometown, where your parents live now, the town where you went to school, where friends
and relatives live, etc. Plan your strategy and itinerary prayerfully, recognizing that God may open other strategies
and locations after you begin.
While there are a number of strategies you can use while raising your support, we are going to focus upon the three
most volunteers will use.
•
•
•
Personal Appointments
Letter/Telephone strategy
Working through Local Churches
In preparing your presentation, you will incorporate appropriate stories about people whose lives have been changed
by Christ. If you have not had much ministry experience, contact other volunteers and your support coach for stories
you can use for your presentation.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 16
FACE-TO-FACE APPOINTMENTS
Six Components of the Appointment Strategy:
1.
Namestorming
Think through as many people as possible to contact for support.
2.
Pre-call letter
Send a letter to potential partners before calling for an appointment. (This is optional.)
3.
Phone call to secure an appointment
This phone call is not the presentation. Most likely this call will be only 2-3 minutes. It is a good idea to
create a phone script and practice what you are going to say before you call.
4.
The appointment
In order for people to make a decision to support you, it is helpful for them to meet you, hear your vision
for ministry, and how the Lord led you to serve as a volunteer with GoCorps.
5.
Collecting the first check
Explain the giving process and emphasize Bank Account Direct Giving.
6.
Thanking
Communicate appreciation to your ministry partners by sending a thank-you note.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 17
SENDING A PRE-CALL LETTER
Although not required, some volunteers have found it useful to send a letter before making the phone call to set up
an appointment. We call these pre-call letters.
•
The pre-call letter can make the phone call a little easier since people are expecting your call and you can
refer to it at the beginning of the conversation. It gives the potential partner some context for your call.
•
For friends, a pre-call letter is not necessary. This can work effectively for referrals and friends who are
older, like your parents’ friends, professors, etc.
•
On the next page there are two sample pre-call letters, one with a referral and one without.
•
We recommend that you hand-write these letters on a note card or nice stationery. You may word-process
them, but be sure to hand-write the addresses on the envelopes.
•
You may want to also include a brochure. There is a sample brochure that you can personalize on the MPD
website.
•
If you are unsure about using a pre-call letter, you may want to try to set up some appointments using a precall letter and others without a pre-call letter to compare the results.
•
A positive side of using pre-call letters is accountability; they motivate you to get on the phone since
people are expecting your call.
•
A negative side of pre-call letters is that they can slow down your progress since you get into the mindset
of only calling people who have received a pre-call letter. It is important that you keep the letters going out
so you always have people to call. If you have not sent pre-call letters but find yourself in need of appointments right away, you will need to make calls without a pre-call letter.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 18
SAMPLE PRE-CALL LETTERS
June 4, 20XX
WITHOUT A REFERRAL
Dear Prospective Ministry Partner,
My name is Fred Jones. I recently graduated
from UCLA and became a volunteer with
GoCorps. I’m excited about this, because for a
number of years I have had the desire serve Christ
among the least reached. Through [GoCorps
PSO], I have the opportunity to use my gifts and
talents and serve in a strategic way overseas.
Presently, I’m meeting with people here in
town, letting them know about my work with
[GoCorps PSO]. It would be a privilege to drop by
and briefly visit with you. I will call you in the
next few days to set up a time for us to get
together.
June 4, 20XX
Sincerely,
Dear Prospective Ministry Partner,
John Richards suggested I contact you.
My name is Lisa Adams and I recently
graduated from the University of Florida and
became a volunteer with [GoCorps PSO]. I’m
excited about this, because for a number of
years I have had the desire serve Christ among
the least reached. Through [GoCorps PSO], I
have the opportunity to use my gifts and
talents and serve in a strategic way overseas.
Presently, I’m meeting with a number of
professional men and women in the area,
letting them know about my work with
[GoCorps PSO]. It would be a privilege to
drop by and briefly visit with you. I will call
you in a day or two to set up a time when we
can get together. In the meantime, I’ve
enclosed a brochure that will tell you a little
more about me and my ministry.
With a referral
Sincerely,
GoCorps MPD Manual - 19
PHONE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
1.
Begin with a greeting and ask him if he has a moment to talk. If someone referred you to him, mention that
name right away. If you sent a pre-call letter, also refer to the letter and ask if they received it. If they have not
received it or haven’t read the letter, try to set up the appointment anyway.
2.
Ask if he is familiar with GoCorps. If he is, let him know you will be serving with this ministry and what you
will be doing. If he is not, briefly explain in one or two sentences the ministry of GoCorps and what you will be
doing.
3.
Let him know you are in the process of raising support for your upcoming yearlong mission assignment. Ask if
he has time to meet with you so you can share your future ministry and answer any questions. If he is interested,
set up an appointment with him. If he is interested, but unavailable to meet with you, offer to send him a letter
(see Letter/Telephone Strategy) or see if he is willing to set up a phone presentation.
4.
Thank him for his interest and conclude the call by reaffirming the date, place, and time of your appointment.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 20
PHONE SCRIPTS FOR SETTING UP AN APPOINTMENT
SAMPLE PHONE CALL: PRE-CALL LETTER
Introduction
Hello, Mr. Prospective
Partner. My name is (your
name). Did you receive the
letter I sent several days
ago?
Transition
Body of Conversation
Has heard, not presently investing:
With referral:
How did you hear about it?
Close
Possible response:
"I'm not really sure I can help you financially right
now."
Proceed to one of the two
boxes below before going
to next column.
As you know, [GoCorps PSO] is …
In our ministry we...(descriptive sentence). Mr.
Referrer felt you would be encouraged to hear about
our ministry, and I wanted to ask if I might have 30
minutes of your time to tell you about our work and
how you can be involved financially. I was wondering
if I might stop by (specify date/time) or if (specify
alternate date/time) would be better for you.
Received the letter:
Has heard, is investing:
Without referral:
Yes:
Do you have a moment to
talk? As I mentioned, I
would like to talk with you
about my ministry with
[GoCorps PSO]. Have you
heard of it?
That’s great. How long have you known those
staff members?
Remain positive with someone who is currently
investing. Many people are willing to support
more than one staff member. You want to meet
with them to give them that opportunity. From
here say the following and move into the body
of the conversation:
In our ministry we...(descriptive sentence). I wanted to
ask if I might have 30 minutes of your time to tell you
about our work and how you can be involved
financially. I was wondering if I might stop by (specify
date/time) or if (specify alternate date/time) would be
better for you.
Express thanks and set up a specific day, place and time to
meet. Get directions. Close with appreciation and restate
time, date and place of appointment. Also include your
phone number in case they need to reach you.
From here say the following and move into the
body of the conversation:
Your response:
Oh, that’s fine. I know not everybody is in a position to
support my ministry financially. But even knowing that, I
would still like to meet with you, because there are a few
nonfinancial ways you may be able to help. And I hope
that you would also be encouraged to hear what God is
doing through [GoCorps PSO]. Would it be all right if I
came by at (time) on (day)?
As you know, [GoCorps PSO] is…
Hasn’t received letter:
Hasn’t heard of [GOCORPS PSO]:
No:
I sent it on ____, so that’s
too bad that you didn’t get
it. Do you have a moment
to talk now? In the letter, I
mentioned that I recently
became a volunteer with
[GoCorps PSO]. Have you
heard of it?
From here say the following and then move into
the body of the conversation:
Express understanding and appreciation for his time.
[GoCorps PSO] is …
GoCorps MPD Manual - 21
SAMPLE PHONE CALL: TALKING TO FRIENDS
Greeting
Asking for an appointment
Friends who know your plans:
Hello, (friend), how are you?
Build rapport.
I’m calling because I wanted to tell
you more about what I’ll be doing
this next year. As you know, I’m
going to be a volunteer with
[GoCorps PSO]. I'll be working
with (your ministry), and will be
doing (one descriptive phrase about
your ministry). I'm really excited
about it.
Friends who do not know your
plans:
Before I report to (your assignment), I'm
meeting with friends and members of my
family to tell them more specifically what I'll
be doing and how they could be involved
financially. I would love to get together with
you and tell you about it. I was wondering if
I might stop by (specify date/time) or if
(specify alternate date/time) would be better
for you.
Possible response:
"I'm not really sure I can help you
financially right now."
Your response,
Build rapport.
I'm really excited about what I'll be
doing. I'll be working with (your
ministry) and will be… (one
descriptive phrase about your
ministry).
Express thanks and set up a specific day, place and
time to meet. Get directions. Close with appreciation
and restate time, place and date of appointment. Also
include your phone number in case they need to reach
you.
Since it is a friend, you may suggest getting
together for lunch or dinner.
Hello, (friend), how are you?
I’m calling because I wanted to let
you know what I’m going to be
doing this next year. I’m taking this
next year to be a volunteer with
[GoCorps PSO]. [If appropriate,
ask: Are you familiar with
[GoCorps PSO]?
If they haven't heard of it, explain.]
Responses
Yes:
Oh, that’s fine. I know not everybody is in a
position to support my ministry financially.
But even knowing that, I would still like to
meet with you, because there are a few
nonfinancial ways you may be able to help.
And of course I would also enjoy just
catching up with you and telling you what
I’ll be doing. Would it be all right if I came
by at (time) on (day)?
Continue on to either “yes” or “no”
response.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 22
No:
Express understanding and appreciation for his time.
SAMPLE PHONE CALL: NO PRE-CALL LETTER SENT
Introduction
Transition
Body of Conversation
With referral:
Has heard, not presently investing:
With referral:
Hello, Mr. Prospective Partner. Mr.
Referrer suggested that I give you a
call. My name is (your name). I work
with (name of your ministry), a
ministry of [GoCorps PSO]. Do you
have a moment to talk?
How did you hear about it?
In our ministry we...(descriptive sentence). Mr. Referrer
felt you would be encouraged to hear about our
outreach, and I wanted to ask if I might have 30 minutes
of your time to tell you about our work and how you can
be involved financially. I was wondering if I might stop
by (specify date/time) or if (specify alternate date/time)
would be better for you.
Wait for response.
From here say the following and move into
the body of the conversation:
As you know, [GoCorps PSO] is an
interdenominational Christian missions
organization.
Are you familiar with [GoCorps
PSO]?
Close
Possible response:
"I'm not really sure I can help you financially
right now."
Your response:
Oh, that’s fine. I know not everybody is in a
position to support my ministry financially. But
even knowing that, I would still like to meet with
you, because there are a few nonfinancial ways
you may be able to help. And I hope that you
would also be encouraged to hear what God is
doing through [GoCorps PSO]. Would it be all
right if I came by at (time) on (day)
Without referral:
Has heard, is investing:
Without referral:
Yes:
Hello, Mr. Prospective Partner, this is
(your name) calling. I've been visiting
with a number of the (civic, business,
church, lay, professional, etc.) leaders
here in (Anytown), sharing about my
work with (name of your ministry), a
ministry of [GoCorps PSO]. Do you
have a moment to talk?
That’s great. How long have you known
those staff members?
Remain positive with someone who is
currently investing. Many people are willing
to support more than one staff member. You
want to meet with them to give them that
opportunity. From here say the following
and move into the body of the conversation:
In our ministry we...(descriptive sentence). I wanted to
ask if I might have 30 minutes of your time to tell you
about our work and how you can be involved
financially. I was wondering if I might stop by (specify
date/time) or if (specify alternate date/time) would be
better for you.
Express thanks and set up a specific day, place
and time to meet. Get directions. Close with
appreciation and restate time, date and place of
appointment. Also include your phone number in
case they need to reach you.
Wait for response.
As you know, [GoCorps PSO] is an
interdenominational Christian missions
organization.
Are you familiar with [GoCorps
PSO]?
Hasn’t heard of [GOCORPS PSO]:
No:
From here say the following and then move
into the body of the conversation:
Express understanding and appreciation for his
time.
[GoCorps PSO] is an interdenominational
Christian missions organization.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 23
APPOINTMENT REMINDER LETTER
Many appointments will be made for the next day or even the day you call, so you will not need to send a reminder
letter. If, however, the appointment is made more than a week in advance, send a reminder letter.
March 21, 20XX
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Prospective Ministry Partner,
I enjoyed talking with you on the phone
today. I appreciate your interest in hearing more
about [GoCorps PSO] and my involvement in it.
I am convinced we are living in a time of
unprecedented opportunity for reaching people for
Christ. I believe you will be encouraged by what
we are doing.
Thanks again for your interest. I am looking
forward to meeting you (day of appointment) at
(time of appointment) at (place of appointment).
Sincerely,
GoCorps MPD Manual - 24
If the letter is to people whom you
will meet at their home, the letter
should be written neatly on personal
or nice stationery.
If the letter is to a church missions
board or to an executive whom you
will meet at his office, it should be
typewritten.
THE APPOINTMENT
For people whom you are able to visit, the personal appointment strategy will work well. Remember to be
conscientious of time and keep the appointment at 30-45 minutes. If you design your presentation for a longer period
of time, you may find it difficult to shorten it if a person can give you only thirty minutes. The rule of thumb is that
it is easy to lengthen a presentation, but it is difficult to shorten a long presentation.
You have already completed some of the steps for your presentation. Now you will complete the remaining steps.
Write out an outline of your presentation. Just as you would write out a talk ahead of time and practice it, do the
same for your MPD presentation. This is not a place to wing it. It cannot be stressed enough how important it is for
you to write out your presentation in outline form. Practice it with a friend until it sounds natural. Remember, you
are representing the Lord and GoCorps and the GoCorps PSO you are serving with. You want to come across
friendly and professionally. In light of this, also be sure to dress professionally (Business casual is fine for home
appointments; for men, a coat and tie may be needed in for an office appointment).
The following chart, Structure of the Appointment, is a breakdown of the support appointment. You will be using
the GoCorps VISION NOTEBOOK (presenter might also refer to it as the ‘VACA’ or ‘Vision and Calling Album’)
to accomplish the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Connect with the heart of the prospective ministry partner through:
a. Engaging question
b. Overwhelming problem
c. Call to solution (calling testimony)
Cast vision by sharing how your GoCorps PSO addresses the problem.
Ask for a financial commitment.
Ask for referrals.
Ask for the first check and emphasize Bank Account Direct Giving.
Why do we emphasize using a presentation piece?
• You want to keep your conversation on track and avoid rabbit trails. The VISION NOTEBOOK will help
you do that.
• People love to see pictures; they communicate much more than words.
• It is hard to keep people engaged for thirty minutes. The VISION NOTEBOOK draws people in.
• The VISION NOTEBOOK brings people to a point of decision in terms of support. It is much harder to do
this through a conversation.
• The VISION NOTEBOOK also makes asking for referrals an easy transition.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 25
STRUCTURE OF THE APPOINTMENT (CAMPUS- STATESIDE)
What You Will
Cover
Build rapport.
Transition to the
VISION
NOTEBOOK.
Connect with the
heart of the
prospective partner:
Ask the Engaging question.
Discuss the problem.
Additional Information
Ask questions about them (church involvement, familiarity with GoCorps, family, etc.).
Say the following to help you transition into the VISION NOTEBOOK:
“When we spoke on the phone, I said I would be taking this year to work as a volunteer with GoCorps to reach people at
(your campus, city, etc.). To give you a better idea about what I will be doing, I brought this album with me to show you
how we will be reaching (students, athletes, etc.) for Christ.”
Your objective as you begin your presentation is to connect with the heart of the prospective partner. You want to know
what he or she is thinking. One way to do that is to ask the following question after opening to the cover page.
Time
(ThirtyMinute
Appointment)
Four minutes
Four minutes
(Example) “Jesus said to "Go and Make Disciples in the nations." You can make disciples anywhere (on your job, in your
school) but the GoCorps sends recent graduates like myself into some of the least reached areas of the world to make
disciples. Since a majority of the churches resources are going towards programs that are reaching the reachable, have you
thought about what can be done among the least reached who don't have access to the same resources we have?”
After discussing his answer, read the caption (s) on page 2-3
Share your calling
testimony.
If you have had some experiences that depict the spiritual battle on campus, share one.
Go to page 4 and read, “But God … in the face of these…
Two minutes
Before going any further in your presentation, say:
“I’m excited to be a part of what God is doing among the unreached. Let me tell you how the Lord called me to serve
overseas.
Cast a vision for your
ministry and how
GOCORPS wins,
builds, and sends
students.
Who we are
Briefly share why you believe God has led you to be a volunteer and what you’ll be doing specifically with the sending
organization and your placement assignment for two years (Your calling testimony and what you wrote on the What is
Your Vision Worksheet will be useful to you to prepare for this part of your presentation.)
As you read the captions on pages 5-10 (GoCorps volunteers: 5-9) you will be casting a vision for the ministry, what we
are trusting God to do, and how we go reaching the least reached.
Include the following:
• Share stories that go with each caption about how people's lives have been changed. It is important to focus upon
stories and not upon strategies. People are gripped by stories about how Christ has changed lives.
• The stories you tell can be from your own ministry experience. Contact your support coach for other stories related to
the ministry where you will serve.
• Share the vision your region has for the ministry where you will serve as a volunteer.
• Explain exactly what you will be doing as a GoCorps volunteer.
The Who We Are section describes who we are as a ministry. You do not need to add much to these pages.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 26
Four minutes
Two minutes
STRUCTURE OF THE APPOINTMENT (CAMPUS- STATESIDE)
What You Will
Cover
Transition to the ask
Ask for support
Additional Information
At this point, stop and ask if there are any questions pertaining to [GoCorps PSO] and what you will be doing. If not, then
say, “These next few pages describe what it means to join with me as a ministry partner.”
Pages 16 (GoCorps volunteers: 14) to the second to the last page are designed to walk you through asking the
prospective partner to make a monthly commitment. Just read these pages. (There are duplicate pages for “we” and “I”)
On the “Ask Page,” read the two statements in blue. “Your partnership can make a difference in reaching people for Christ.
Would you make a monthly commitment of $100 or some other amount?” After you have asked, remain silent and let the
prospective partner answer. Many people are ready to make a decision after a presentation. As a matter of fact, you will find
that some people will have made a decision before you arrive for the appointment.
“Yes.”
• Express appreciation. “Thank you so much. That is a great help. I am very excited that you will be a partner with me in
ministry. In a minute I will explain how it works to give contributions to me through [GoCorps PSO].”
•
You will then move into asking for referrals, which is discussed on page 28.
•
After you have asked for referrals, say, “Would you be able to write the first check today? (The check needs to be
made payable to the GoCorps partnering sending organization that you are going with) Show the Bank Account Direct
Giving card and say, “Most people give directly from their bank account. Would this work for you?” (Note: Even if
giving by Bank Account Direct Giving, you still need to collect the first check and send both to Donation Services for
processing.)
•
Some people may ask about giving by credit card. That is also an option. You can capture credit card information as
well on the Direct Giving Card.
•
If they do not want to give with Bank Account Direct Giving, or by credit card, say: Within two weeks, you will receive
an envelope and a receipt for this gift. Also included will be a stub with my name and account number on it. Mail your
next check with that stub in the envelope provided.”
“Maybe.”
• Set a time to call back for a decision. Most people can make a decision within 24-48 hours. Say, "If I were to call you
tomorrow evening, would that give you enough time to pray about it?”
•
You will then move into asking for referrals, which is discussed on page 28.
•
When you call back the person who gave you a “maybe” response, and if the answer is “yes,” it is best to arrange a
time to pick up the check. This takes extra effort on your part, but it allows you to see the person again and to make
sure you receive the gift.)
GoCorps MPD Manual - 27
Time
(ThirtyMinute
Appointment)
Four Minutes
STRUCTURE OF THE APPOINTMENT (CAMPUS- STATESIDE)
What You Will
Cover
Ask for referrals.
Receiving the first
check
Additional Information
“No.”
• This does not necessarily mean this person could not help you with a special gift. Say, “I know not everyone is in a
position to help with my monthly support. I do have to raise some special gifts to cover my airfare (if going overseas),
training and relocation expenses. Would you be able to help with special needs gift of $100, $200, or some other
amount?”
•
If the answer is “yes,” express appreciation. “Thank you so much. That is a great help. I am very excited that you will
be a partner with me in ministry. In a minute, I will explain how it works to give a contribution to me through
[GoCorps PSO].
•
You will then move into asking for referrals, which is discussed on page 28.
•
After asking for referrals, as in the above response to a “yes” to monthly support, ask if he would be in a position to
write a check today.
•
If a person cannot help you with a monthly gift or a special gift, thank him for his time. You may ask them if they
would remain a part of your prayer team, especially if you sense they are genuinely interested but unable to give
financially at this time. Add this person to your mailing list only if you sense a genuine interest, but he does not have
the capacity to give at this time.
•
If your new ministry partner is not able to write a check at the end of your appointment, see the section Thanking and
Receiving the First Check.
After asking for a commitment, you will ask for referrals. The page that states, “There is another vital way you can help,” is
designed to help you transition into the ask for referrals. Insert a Category Worksheet into your album after the transition
page.
If the person agreed to become a ministry partner, you will close the appointment by filling out the commitment card.
Insert a commitment card after the Category Worksheet. As the person fills out the card, make sure you include the
following:
1. Explain the contribution process and encourage them to give electronically Show them the commitment card
2. Giving options:
a. If giving by bank account transfer, get the first check (not voided) and have them fill out the bank account info
on the commitment card along with contact info.
b. If giving by credit card, have them fill out the credit card info on the commitment card along with contact info
c. If giving by check, they still fill out the contact info on the commitment card. Explain they will receive a
statement from your PSO for their next gift. (if giving monthly)
3. Let your partner know you will be sending a monthly prayer letter so he can pray for you.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 28
Time
(ThirtyMinute
Appointment)
Eight minutes
Two minutes
BUILDING A REFERRAL NETWORK
Things to Remember When Asking for Referrals
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
It is very likely that you do not know enough people to raise all the support you need. Because of that, it is
imperative to have friends and new partners suggest some of their friends to you as referrals.
Your appointment is not over until you have asked for referrals. This comes after you have gotten the
prospective ministry partner’s decision about supporting you, whether it is “yes,” “no,” or “maybe.”
You should ask for names right after you ask for support, but before you ask for the first check and before you
explain how monies are given to GoCorps. If the answer is “maybe,” go ahead and set up a time to call back;
then proceed to the ask for referrals.
How you ask for referrals will make all the difference in terms of people being willing to help you by
suggesting names.
Prepare and practice your script for referrals.
Ask for referrals on each appointment. Not everyone will give you contacts, but a number of people will help
you.
Remember to get names first. After you have a list of people, you can go back and ask for the addresses and
phone numbers.
Referrals Script
The following script includes some rationale that will help the person you are asking for referrals to understand why
you need his help. The script is designed to take away unspoken objections. It would be helpful to memorize this
script.
Couples
“Thanks so much for joining our team at a hundred dollars a month! We are very grateful. In a minute we will
explain how the process works, but before we do that, we have another question. There is another vital way you can
help.
We want to report to our assignment as quickly as we can. But we don’t know enough people to talk to about our
ministry.
We have something we want to run by you.
If you were going into full-time Christian work, who would you ask to be part of your team?(Go ahead and reference
the category worksheet as you ask, and mention one of the categories)
Who comes to mind?
Singles
“Thanks so much for joining my team at a hundred dollars a month! I am very grateful. In a minute I will explain
how the process works, but before I do that, I have another question for you. There is another vital way you can
help.
I want to report to my assignment as quickly as I can. But I don’t know enough people to talk to about my ministry.
I have something I want to run by you.
If you were going into full-time Christian work, who would you ask to be part of your team? (Go ahead and
reference the category worksheet as you ask, and mention one of the categories)
Who comes to mind?
GoCorps MPD Manual - 29
SAMPLE REFERRAL CATEGORY WORKSHEET
Friends at Church
Neighbors
Family
Coworkers
Friends in Small Groups
Other
GoCorps MPD Manual - 30
THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN CALLING BACK FOR A DECISION
1.
Call when you said you would. Write the person’s name and the time of the call in your schedule.
2.
Usually, you will want to keep your call short. You do not need to establish a great deal of rapport. The person
knows why you are calling.
3.
If at all possible, arrange to pick up the first check and direct giving card.
4.
When you see your ministry partner, be sure to do the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
5.
Explain the contribution process.
Pick up the first check.
If giving monthly, explain the e-gift card and ask your partner to consider giving electronically.
Let your partner know that you will be sending a monthly prayer letter so he can pray for you.
Ask for a prayer request: “What one thing can I be praying for you in the coming months?”
(Have pen poised showing you are ready to write something.)
Pray for him then, if it is appropriate.
If you cannot personally pick up the first check and have settled how you will receive it, then over the phone:
a.
b.
c.
Explain your prayer team and prayer letter.
Ask for a prayer request.
Wrap up, again expressing appreciation.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 31
SAMPLE PHONE CONVERSATION: CALLING BACK FOR A DECISION
Introduction
Hello, Mr. Prospective Ministry Partner,
this is (your name) with GoCorps calling.
How are you today?
"Yes" Response
"No" Response
Yes, we would like to be a part.
Thank you so much. I really appreciate your generosity.
No, we are not able to help at this time.
Express understanding and appreciation.
If the prospective partner has not told you the amount, ask the
following:
I can certainly understand. Thank you so much for allowing me to share my
ministry with you.
When I was at your home, you asked me to
give you a call back after you and your
wife took some time to consider
supporting my ministry. Have you been
able to make a decision?
Have you decided on an amount?
Ask permission to send him your prayer letter. You may want to ask for a
special gift. (Use your discernment).
We have not decided yet.
I certainly understand. If I called
tomorrow night around 7:30, would that
give you enough time to make a decision?
Picking up the check.
May I come over to your home for a few minutes on (day and time)
to pick up your check, or would some other time be more
convenient?
Ask for special gift.
I realize not everyone is able to help with my monthly support. However,
there is another way you may be able to help. In addition to monthly support,
I need to develop an additional $4000 for my training expenses and
relocation expenses to my assignment. Would you be in a position to help
with a gift of $300, $200, $100, or some other amount?
Wait for response.
Make sure to get a specific day and time.
If yes, proceed to "Picking up the check" box. If no, proceed to the following
box.
Yes, come by and pick up the check.
When you see your new ministry partner, explain the contribution
process, pick up the first check, ask about electronic giving, inform
him you will be sending your prayer letter so he can pray for you,
and ask for a prayer request from him. Review Building a Referral
Network Workshop.
Cannot pick up the first check in person.
I’ll send you an envelope. Would you be able to send your check by
(give a date that is two weeks from the date of your conversation)?
Send him the First Gift Envelope (put a stamp on it) along with an
e-gift card and a note explaining the contribution process. If you
do not receive his check within two weeks after you mail the
envelope, call and say:
I have not received your gift and am concerned that it was lost in
the mail.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 32
Ask permission to send your prayer letter.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my ministry with you. Would it be OK
for me to send you my prayer letter while I am on this overseas assignment?
More than anything, I appreciate people making a commitment to pray for
me at least once a month on the day they receive my letter.
Most people will be fine with this.
(One of things you are doing as you raise support is cultivating people whom
you can contact at a later time to join your team. If you volunteer a second
year or join staff, you will contact these people again. Sending your prayer
letter builds your prayer team and helps people become more familiar with
you and your ministry.)
THANKING AND RECEIVING THE FIRST CHECK
You have not finished your appointment or follow-up phone call with a ministry partner until you thank him. Send a thankyou note the same day you receive your new partner's decision. This is an important part of developing your relationship with
him. This should be a personal, handwritten note. (See a sample on the following page.) In your brief note, express
appreciation and the amount of the gift.
On a face-to-face appointment if a person is not able to give you a check while you are there, arrange a time to pick up the
check and the e-gift card. Remember that all checks are to be made payable to “[your GoCorps PSO].” For IRS purposes,
your name is not to appear anywhere on the check. While it takes extra effort on your part to pick up the check, it enables you
to see the person again and ensures that you receive the check and e-gift card. If you for some reason you are not able to pick
up the check, send them a stamped envelope addressed back to you, not to [GoCorps PSO] and include the e-gift card. There
is a principle, “Thank before you bank.” If they send in the check to [GoCorps PSO], it will be several weeks before you find
out if the check was sent in and will delay your thank you note.
For a decision you receive from the Letter/Telephone Strategy, send the person a thank-you note along with a selfaddressed, stamped envelope, and ask him to send you his check. Also include the e-gift card.
Once you have received checks from your ministry partners, send the checks to your PSO.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 33
THANK-YOU NOTE
Sending a thank-you note is absolutely crucial! This note is the first step in the ministry partner cultivation
process. Do not be guilty of ingratitude.
May 25, 20XX
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Prospective Ministry Partner,
Thank you so much for becoming one of my
per month.
ministry partners by contributing
It is a privilege to be teamed up with people like
you as, together, we seek to help reach people for
Christ.
I believe your investments of prayer and
financial support will result in many coming to
Christ. Beyond that, I trust God will honor His
Word and truly bless you as you give.
Please pray with me that God will quickly
complete my support team so I can get to my
assignment. Thanks again for all you mean to me.
Yours in Christ,
GoCorps MPD Manual - 34
Send a thank you note the day you
get a decision as well as when you
receive the first check. Be sure to
keep accurate records in your
database so you know who has
already received a note.
In your note, express appreciation,
include the exact amount of the gift, and
what it will help achieve, and add
something personal (See you in church
on Sunday.).
The note should be handwritten on
personal or nice stationery.
LETTER/TELEPHONE STRATEGY
How do you contact people who live in locations you will not be able to visit personally? The Letter/Telephone
Strategy is an excellent tool for you to use to "meet" people when it is not possible to travel to their cities.
There are three parts to this strategy.
1.
2.
3.
Sending the letter
Following up with a phone call
Thanking the person
To make this strategy the most effective, it is important that you follow up the letter with a phone call within 7-10
days from the time you mail the letter. The follow-up call is a critical aspect of the strategy. The question can be
asked, "Isn't it as effective to place a response card with a return envelope in the letter for the potential ministry
partner to return to me?" A response card is a sophisticated fund-raising device that can be used under certain
conditions. Many well-meaning people will set their mail aside on their desk and never get around to answering. It is
not that your request is unimportant to them; it is because they have other things that take a higher priority than
answering the request for support. People need you to follow through with a phone call. The phone call enables you
to accomplish two things. First, it allows you to build a relationship with the person through conversation. Second, it
brings up the matter of urgency in getting a decision for your support.
How the letter should look (see samples)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
The letter should have the look of a personal letter. Use Times Roman, 12 point. This is easiest to read.
Your name and address should be in the heading.
Do not use an inside address (the addressee's address).
Always give your letter a specific date.
The greeting should have the name of the person to whom you are writing. Use a comma after the salutation
rather than a colon. Try not to use a form letter.
Use correct grammar, but write in an easy-flowing, conversational manner.
Keep typewritten paragraphs to six lines. Shorter paragraphs enhance the readability of the copy.
Double-space between paragraphs.
Indent paragraphs for greater readability and personalization.
Keep sentence structure simple and uncomplicated. Guard against using incomplete sentences.
Vary paragraph beginnings.
Use correct spelling. When in doubt, look it up!
Avoid beginning a paragraph with "I."
Avoid beginning a sentence, especially the first sentence of a paragraph, with "a," "an," or "the."
Begin sentences with "action" words (verb forms such as "-ing" words) or good transitions (such as prepositional phrases) to keep the interest of the reader and to enhance the flow from one thought to another.
Keep the letter to a maximum of 1½ pages. If you have a second page, divide the sentence at the end of the first
page so the reader will have to turn the page to finish reading the sentence.
Content of the letter
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Write the letter as if you are writing to one person.
Mail merge the greeting, if possible.
Explain how and why you are being led to serve with [GoCorps PSO] (in the United States or overseas).
Give a brief explanation of the ministry of [GoCorps PSO], preferably with a “changed life” story.
You do not need to mention your total need for monthly and special needs support. This may cause confusion
as people easily equate monthly goal with monthly salary.
Ask for financial support, specifying a suggested amount.
Mention you will call for a decision.
Close the letter.
Handwrite a PS., which says, "I'm looking forward to talking with you."
GoCorps MPD Manual - 35
SAMPLE LETTERS
The following pages contain two different sample letters. The first one is for a volunteer going overseas. The second
is for a volunteer assigned to the United States.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 36
STINT SAMPLE LETTER
SCOTT WORTHMORE
423 West Hurst Avenue
Chicago, IL 60521
April 20, 20XX
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Marks,
Because I have always wanted to teach children, I studied elementary education at Northwestern
University. During my freshman year, I met students and staff members involved in a Christian
organization called [GoCorps PSO]. Through them I came to understand what it meant to trust Jesus
Christ as my personal Savior. As I grew in my relationship with the Lord, I learned how to share my faith
and help new believers grow in their walks with God. It has been exciting to see God use me to reach
others with the Gospel. I have realized that people all over the world need to hear about Christ's love for
them.
Since graduating, I have had a chance to teach third-graders in the Chicago area schools. At the
same time, my desire to reach people for Christ has continued to grow. After praying for God to use me
however He wants, He opened the door for me to go to Albania for a two year overseas placement with
[GoCorps PSO] to reach college students. Of all places in the world, why would I want to go to Albania?
This country was one of the most closed countries in the world to the Gospel. After communism fell, the
doors for the Gospel opened.
Vislosn is a good reason I am going. He was part of a group of young men who would stay out on
the streets all night and beat up people! They had no respect for their parents and fought with them. Then
these men came to Christ, and their lives have been transformed. They have been sharing Christ with their
family and friends. So far, three of their family members have come to the Lord. No longer are they on
the streets beating up people. Instead, they volunteered for acting roles in an outreach drama. They now
attend every meeting [GoCorps PSO] has—prayer meetings, fellowship meetings, and discipleship
meetings.
Listen to what Vislon said (the English is awkward, for it is in his own words), “I’m very happy
that God change my life. God make it possible to me to get saved. With your help and with God’s Word I
learn the truth.”
Is it dangerous there? It can be. Several years ago, there was a Cholera epidemic there.
Nevertheless, I am convinced this is where God wants me to be for the next year. I can think of no safer
place to be than in the center of His will.
My goal is to leave for Albania August 15, but before I go, I face the challenge of raising my
financial support. Like many other mission organizations, [GoCorps PSO] workers must raise all of their
financial support. As I take this large step of faith to serve the Lord in ministry, would you prayerfully
consider joining me as a partner in ministry by financially supporting me for $100 per month for two
years or some other amount?
I will call you in about one week to see what you have decided and to answer any questions you
may have. Thank you for considering my need.
Yours in Christ,
Scott Worthmore
(Personally sign and handwrite P.S.)
P.S. I am looking forward to talking with you.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 37
U.S. VOLUNTEER SAMPLE LETTER
LISA MICHAELS
257 Oak Street
Boston, MA 02640
May 1, 20XX
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Wilson,
When I entered MIT six years ago my dream was to pursue chemical engineering. However,
something happened to me to put me on a slightly different course. During my freshman year, I met
students and staff members involved in a Christian organization called [GoCorps PSO]. Through them I
came to understand what it meant to trust Jesus Christ as my personal Savior.
As I grew in my relationship with the Lord, I learned how to share my faith and help new
believers grow in their walks with God. It has been exciting to see God use me to reach others with the
Gospel. I have realized that the most important thing in the world is not education, but having an eternal
relationship with the Lord.
The closer my graduation approached, the more I wrestled with what to do. Should I go to
graduate school or into missions? Then I learned about a unique program [GoCorps PSO] has. It is a twoyear mid-term mission program where I will work with the campus metro ministry here in Boston.
[GoCorps PSO] is working in partnership with one of the leading churches in Boston to reach the
250,000-plus college students in the city. I cannot think of a better way to use this next year.
Let me tell you about Steve Sawyer, just one student who was reached through this ministry.
Born in Quincy, Massachusetts, he was diagnosed at birth with hemophilia. Though he required countless
blood infusions, Steve’s childhood was positive. In high school he was actively involved in honor
societies and student government.
At fifteen, he received the most difficult news of his life--he was infected with the HIV virus
from contaminated blood. HIV did not mean much to him at the time, until his senior year. Steve recalls,
“I went from weighing 140 pounds to 113 pounds in two weeks. I was sick, pale, and getting worse.”
As his physical health deteriorated, he also experienced denial, depression, and periods of rage.
Then something happened that defied explanation. Within four weeks, Steve’s condition improved, and
he regained his weight and resumed a normal life. He graduated from high school and entered college in
the Boston area.
While there, Steve experienced another physical setback. He was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the
liver. Too weak to continue, he dropped out of school. As his college career ended, Steve’s life shifted in
a new direction. Through a poster, he found out about a [GoCorps PSO] meeting in Boston. At that
meeting, he became a Christian, and soon after, each member of his family came to Christ.
Steve then went public to share his story of hope in the midst of living with HIV. He traveled all
around the country speaking to students about new life in Jesus Christ. Over 30,000 heard his story.
Hundreds came to Christ. Steve was able to reach students in a way that few can. As he was honest with
them about HIV and death, giving them an opportunity to come to Christ, students listened and
responded.
Steve has since gone home to be with the Lord. God had lengthened Steve’s life for a season in
order to take the gospel to lost students. It is a testimony of how the Lord empowers and uses students.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 38
That is my passion—seeing students come to Christ and become people who proclaim Christ in their
dorm room, on their campus, and throughout the world.
We are seeing God move in a unique way in Boston, and I am thrilled to be a part of it. Before I
go, I face the challenge of raising my financial support. Like many other mission organizations, [GoCorps
PSO] workers must raise all of their financial support.
My goal is to have all of my support by August 15. As I take this large step of faith to serve the
Lord in ministry, would you prayerfully consider joining me as a partner in ministry by financially
supporting me for $100 per month or some other amount?
I will call you in about one week to see what you have decided and to answer any questions you
may have. Thank you for considering my need.
Yours in Christ,
Lisa Michaels
(Personally sign and handwrite a P.S.)
PS. I am looking forward to talking with you.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 39
FOLLOWING UP THE LETTER
WITH A PHONE CALL FOR A DECISION
The purpose of your letter is to prepare the way for your phone call. The phone call is the most critical factor in the
whole process. Because we place a strong emphasis upon cultivating our relationships with our ministry partners,
calling a person back provides the best follow through for a letter. It enables two things to happen. First and
foremost, you will be able to use the phone call to build a relationship with your potential ministry partner. People
want to know you are interested in them. Second, you will be able to get a decision. Within 7-10 days from the time
you send the letter, call for a decision. Calling a person at home or in the office is appropriate.
What to Do When Making a Follow-up Phone Call
1.
Identify yourself and chat briefly with the individual (3-5 minutes). Ask a sincere question such as, "How are
you and your family doing?" Be sure to listen and respond as needed.
2.
Ask if he received your letter. You will need to be ready to respond appropriately. The following could happen:
•
•
•
•
•
He has not received it.
He received it, but has not read it.
He looked it over, but cannot remember the details.
He has read it but hasn’t decided.
He has read it and has come to a decision.
3.
If the person you are calling answers with one of the first three responses above, you will need to be prepared
to share the need over the phone. DO NOT SAY, "I will send you another letter." Be bold and ask over the
phone. In some cases, you may need to call back for the decision. In most cases, the decision will be made
while you are on the phone.
4.
If “yes”, Be sure to try to get an exact amount, as this will confirm the commitment in his mind, and it will help
you in your planning process. Send him a self-addressed envelope and e-gift card. Also send a thank-you card.
5.
If the potential partner says “no” to monthly support, ask for a special gift.
6.
If he says “no” to a special gift, but is interested (he does not have the means to support you), ask permission to
send your prayer letter. Contact again in a year if you volunteer again or join staff.
7.
When it is appropriate, ask for prayer requests.
8.
Be sure to thank him for any decision. If he cannot become a ministry partner at this time, thank him for his
prayerful consideration.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 40
CHURCH PRESENTATIONS
You will find a variety of responses from churches when you ask for permission to raise support within the church.
Some churches will welcome you with open arms. Others may be cautious, and you may find some are not open to
hearing anyone from [GoCorps PSO].
Some churches may have policies that restrict individuals in raising support within the church. Other churches may
have a policy where you are allowed to approach the missions board, but not individuals. If you find this to be the
case in a church you approach, you must adhere to the church’s wishes. Remember, you are a spokesperson for
[GoCorps PSO] and the Lord. The reputation of this ministry is very important, and people see you as its
representative.
If you are going ask people within a church to refer you to others with whom you can share your ministry, you will
need to approach the pastor for permission to do so. This applies to your home church also.
You should determine beforehand what you will ask the pastor for (e.g., missions budget, group presentation,
individual appointments). In order for you to determine this, you will need some working knowledge
regarding the church.
Getting an appointment with the pastor can be accomplished in several ways. One is to have a member of the church
who is already enthusiastic about your work set up the appointment and perhaps even accompany you. Another is to
call the church secretary to find out the pastor’s office hours and simply drop by to visit him. A third option is that
you can call him personally for an appointment. Say much the same things you would when calling for an
appointment with a prospective investor.
When you meet with the pastor, tell him about yourself and your ministry. Ask him questions about the kinds of
ministries his church seeks to support. Next, explain the options of meeting with individuals, presenting to the
Missions Board, or a group presentation. If the pastor feels he should discuss the matter with his lay governing
board, ask if you can come to the meeting and give a presentation.
If he gives you the opportunity to speak to the congregation, tell him you would like to call the individuals who
attend and ask for an appointment. Find out how much time you will have in the service.
If you have relationships with people in a church where the policy does not permit you to raise support from
individuals, promise the pastor you will talk only to your friends and will not seek out others within the church. Tell
him it is possible you may be introduced to members of his congregation outside the context of the church, but you
knowingly will not seek to meet people you do not know in the church.
If the pastor is apprehensive about you and your ministry, you may see his concerns vanish after you have the
opportunity to address them.
If you meet with a pastor who philosophically disagrees with [GoCorps PSO] or has theological differences, be
gracious and do not become argumentative. Some pastors may have incorrect information about our ministry. Others
may have deep theological differences. Your role is not to try and change their theological convictions. You are to
be gracious and thank them for their time. Do not try and raise support within a church where the pastor has these
concerns.
In general, most big, well-known denomination pastors will have the authority to say “no” to you, but not the
authority to say “yes” to you on any of the options. Permission to address the congregation or to be given a place on
the budget normally requires the participation of the church's lay governing body (the church council). This group
can readily give you a “yes” or “no” on either a congregational meeting or permission to call through the church
directory.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 41
On the budget issue, the church council normally can say “no,” but the most positive answer they usually can give
is “maybe.” In this case, your request is referred to the Missions or Budget Committee for consideration. By the
time it is acted upon and given back to the council for final approval, weeks and months can pass with no funds
going into your account. In addition, many of the larger denominations lean toward investing all missions money in
their own church missions’ programs, rather than in missionaries from para-church organizations.
In the case of many of the more fundamental denominations (and some churches within the other big
denominations), the pastor may have much more authority for affirmative action, and even the rate of response from
their lay governing bodies is more rapid. Having the opportunity to share your ministry and needs with the
congregation during a service usually is not too difficult.
Even budget decisions in many of these churches can come quickly. Often the pastor can tell you if there is a chance
for you to be placed on the budget. If there is, he usually can be given a final decision at the next meeting of the lay
governing body.
You can make a group presentation to the congregation. This usually is a possibility in any denomination, especially
if there is an evening service. The advantage to this is you often will generate more funds out of a given
congregation this way. For example, it is much easier to find four individuals in a church who will invest $100
monthly than it is to be placed on the church budget for $100 monthly. Prayer support increases for you as more
individuals support you.
Remember, God will develop your team of ministry partners. Whatever the response of the pastor or his lay
governing body, your objective is to leave a good impression of you and [GoCorps PSO]. God will empower you to
be a sensitive and gracious ambassador of our Savior.
If the church is already familiar with [GoCorps PSO] and involved in other staff members' ministries, use the same
sensitivity you would with any prospective investor who is already financially involved with our movement.
Gaining an Introduction to a Church
Aside from your own church, it is difficult to “walk in off the street” and hope a church will consider supporting
you. It is best to have someone you know from within the church refer you to others there to whom you can present
your ministry.
Three Sources of Support From Churches
1.
From the missions budget.
If you are a member, you will need to find out the correct procedures for being placed on the budget. It is
important to work through the proper channels.
If you are not a member, you need to realize that most churches have more opportunities to give then they
have money available. Therefore, the best way is to have a member of the church help you. He will know the
proper procedures and will have more influence than a non-member. Being placed on a church's budget may be
a long process. Typically the decision is not made quickly; however, once started, a church usually will
continue to support you for the long haul.
2.
Speak in front of the congregation or some group within the church.
Remember the development principle, “Every man’s challenge is no man’s challenge.” When people are asked
to make on-going monthly commitments in a large group meeting (church service, Sunday School class, etc.),
they seldom will make a commitment in that setting. Even if the pastor asks the group for you, you most likely
will not see this kind of giving. Use the large group meeting to share your call, vision, and war stories. Then
you can apply the principle of networking and meet people individually to ask for support.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 42
Some Sunday School classes support missionaries. The person who is responsible for the class or group can set
up your speaking opportunity. In this setting, you would present your ministry and ask the class to consider
supporting your ministry.
3.
Calling individual members.
Whether you are a member or a non-member, start by calling people with whom you have a relationship.
They can help you contact others in the congregation. Do not call through the directory. Directories are not for
solicitation. See the workshop, Building a Referral Network, on how to use a directory for gaining referrals.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 43
CULTIVATING YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PARTNERS
Your ministry partners will be giving, some sacrificially, so you can be involved in your ministry. Not only will they
give, but they also will pray for you. At the same time, you have a responsibility toward them. It is an issue of
stewardship. God has entrusted these men and women to you. You need to pray for them and communicate with
them often. Remember, this is a partnership.
It is the practice in [GoCorps PSO] for staff members to send out monthly prayer letters to ministry partners. As a
volunteer or STINTer, you must do the same. Enough money is included in your budget to send out letters each
month to your partners. Make it a practice, no matter how busy you are, to mail a letter by the first of the month.
Consider using a prayer letter service to ensure that your letter goes out each month. You will find prayer letter
services on the MPD site.
You can use some of the same guidelines listed in the Letter/Telephone Strategy section. Your goal is a personal
letter that will be read immediately. Do not worry about fancy graphics; let your writing be the primary focus of the
letter. Include a photos of people to whom you are ministering. Your ministry partners will love to read stories about
them. In each letter tell one story—preferably a changed life story. This way your partners will remember the people
you write about. Do not be surprised when they ask you questions regarding the students you have written about.
There is a great deal that can be said about writing prayer letters and personal cards. If you follow the above
instructions, your ministry partners will feel appreciated and know they are a crucial part of your ministry.
Volunteers and GoCorps volunteers who have a done good job with cultivation have had an easier time with
raising support for a second year or when they joined staff. But more importantly than that, it is just the
right thing to do. Do not be guilty of ingratitude. The Scriptures have much to say about being thankful. Be sure
to express appreciation often.
Here are some practical things you can do to stay in touch with ministry partners:
• Send one-page prayer letters each month and be sure that most include a changed-life story.
• Send a card once a year saying, “I thought about you today and prayed for you.”
• Something that takes a little more initiative is being on the lookout for gifts that will be especially
appreciative. Like a magazine article on a subject you know your partner has an interest in. These are
opportunities to “befriend” our partners.
• Sending e-mail updates, perhaps once a month in the middle of your prayer letter cycle.
• Buy postcards of your city & send a "I'm praying for you" note.
• Have a "dessert open house" during the summer or Christmas & invite all ministry partners in a particular
location.
• Pray for your ministry partners regularly.
• Call one or two ministry partners on your way to campus every day and let them know who you are
meeting with, or what your day will look like. Even if you just leaves a voice mail, it is great to let your
partners know what they were investing in.
• Send World-Wide Challenge magazines.
• Take a week during Christmas break and call all your partners.
These ideas take time and initiate. But remember, it is easier to keep support than to raise new support.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 44
WORST MPD IDEAS EVER
(Actual ideas that have been tried by actual staff and volunteers)
1) Joining an online Christian social network and inviting all your new “friends” to join your team only to
have the owner of the website cancel your membership and file a complaint to [GoCorps PSO].
2) Your one MPD strategy is having a garage sale or pancake breakfast in your honor and keeping all the
proceeds.
3) Sitting at home and praying, hoping that the Lord will just drop the finances in your lap.
4) Getting people to join a marketing pyramid scheme where they purchase car supplies online and you
live off the commissions.
5) Day-trading.
6) Having a goal of raising 50% of your goal and then asking your parents to make up the difference.
7)
Buying lots of lottery tickets.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 45
QUESTION AND ANSWER
If I do not do the [GoCorps PSO] overseas placement, what happens with the
money?
The Lord may redirect you in regards to serving overseas with [GoCorps PSO] this fall. Because donations were
given to your PSO, not to you personally, should you withdraw, or when you finish with your overseas placement,
any remaining funds will be used to continue the spreading of the gospel within the ministry of your PSO.
The best way to communicate this to your partners is through a letter. For the sake of clarity, use the letter below.
(Date)
Dear (their name),
Thank you for your support of my overseas placement in Turkey with [GoCorps PSO]. I know the ministry will
have an eternal impact as many college students are presented with the claims of Christ.
As you may know, my circumstances have changed, and I am no longer going to volunteer with [GoCorps PSO].
Some of the funds I have raised will be used to cover my initial training costs and expenses while raising support.
The remaining balance will used by [GoCorps PSO] to accomplish the mission of reaching people for Christ. If you
would like to continue to support a volunteer, staff person or a ministry within [GoCorps PSO], you can contact
[GoCorps PSO] by email at…
If you are giving through electronic fund transfer or credit card and wish to cancel that, be sure to contact [GoCorps
PSO] to cancel your giving. You can e-mail them at…
I’m of course disappointed with not being able to do an overseas placement this year. I know the Lord has
something else for me that is even better. (Share about your future plans if applicable.)
Thank-you for your desire to see students reached with the Gospel.
Until the whole world knows,
(hand-signature)
If I do not do an overseas placement, can I be reimbursed for expenses related to
MPD (please confirm the following with your PSO)?
Yes! You have worked hard on support this summer and we want you to be able to reimburse expenses you have
incurred. Be sure to note the following:
•
•
•
•
Only MPD and GoCorps Orientation Week expenses can be reimbursed, including postage, meals with a
potential partner, mileage to and from appointments, mileage to and from your kick-off weekend, etc.
You must have sufficient funds in your account to cover the reimbursement.
The conference cost of GO Week must first be covered before the reimbursement will be processed.
The reimbursement must be submitted within 20 days from the time you communicate to your volunteer
coordinator that you withdrawing. He or she will sign and then submit to the reimbursements department.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 46
How can I utilize Facebook in MPD?
Ministry Partner Development is about relationships. We share with prospective ministry partners about God’s call
for our lives. We show the problem, cast a vision and solicit a response.
Because we value partnership in ministry over the “bottom line,” we train staff to approach MPD in specific ways.
We believe in directly and personally asking individuals to partner with us financially.
There are fantastic networking opportunities available as we seek to gain referrals and ministry partners. Facebook
and other social network websites are great forums to connect with people online and provide some of those
networking opportunities. That said there are appropriate ways to go about using these sites in the MPD
process….and there are inappropriate ways.
APPROPRIATE uses of sites like Facebook
•
•
•
•
Helping you namestorm for contacts.
Finding contact information (address, phone, email, etc.) for your current Facebook friends.
Searching for people you’ve lost touch with that you’d like to pursue as potential partners.
Keeping your friends updated on your ministry through notes, groups, events, etc.
INAPPROPRIATE uses of sites like Facebook
•
•
Soliciting a response in a note.
Creating a group that solicits a response in it. Examples: “Support Jason’s Ministry!” or “Todd’s Going to
East Asia!” with a plea for financial support within the explanation of the group.
We want to make sure we are practicing GoCorps’ MPD values and principles. A “Facebook” ask for financial
partnership is not personal; it doesn’t give you an opportunity to dialogue with your prospective partners in order to
give a VISION NOTEBOOK-like presentation. Face-to-face appointments are the bread and butter of MPD. We
want to sit with people (or at least speak directly with them on the phone if we cannot meet with them) and show the
problem, cast a vision and solicit a response for finances and referrals. This will both:
1) Maintain the integrity of the ministry and our philosophy of MPD.
2) Ensure greater success in MPD over the long haul
Using Facebook groups and events in MPD
GoCorps is committed to professional excellence in training staff members in MPD.
Facebook is a very casual social network. It is an incredible tool to help us in our mission to reach the lost for Christ.
And we acknowledge the significant roles it may play in MPD (see Appropriate uses above).
Our concern is that the appeal to the casual nature of Facebook may have a tendency to move us away from our
professional MPD training and the time-tested principles for setting up appointments where we can show the
problem, cast a vision and solicit a response (both financially and for referrals).
As mentioned under “Appropriate Uses of Sites Like Facebook” there are good uses for a Facebook group, event or
note to promote your MPD efforts. Specifically, these kinds of things should lean toward either:
•
•
Helping you gather names and contact info of people to contact.
Providing a place to keep your Facebook friends updated and aware of your ministry.
A volunteer used Facebook to create an event about her GoCorps overseas placement and simply asked people to
“Join if you want my updates this fall or want to pray for me.” Use Facebook to give general ministry updates here,
GoCorps MPD Manual - 47
sharing things similar to your prayer letters (stories of changed lives, how God has called you to this ministry,
illustrations of the need for you to be at your assignment, etc).
Here is a poor example of Facebook text in an event: “Here’s where I am with support. If you know people who
might like to hear about what I am doing this fall, let me know.” We want to avoid an event or group with an update
like this because:
•
•
Financial progress updates are not visionary. Prayer letters or other pieces of communication (including
websites) are not the appropriate venues to share your MPD progress updates. We want to cast vision when
we communicate on appointments – this is why the VISION NOTEBOOK presentation is designed as it is.
We’re not just people who need money to do our job. We are people who are facing an overwhelming
problem; people who believe God has called us to be a part of the solution; and people who delight to invite
others to partner with us in advancing God’s Kingdom.
A Facebook-ask for financial commitment or for referrals is passive. We train our staff to be direct in
soliciting a response. Ideally we do this face-to-face, and occasionally we will do it over the phone. Both of
those methods give us an opportunity to be engaged with the prospective ministry partner in a live setting,
to encourage an immediate response and to be available to answer questions they may have before they
decide. If we ask through a web-based group/event/note, we lose all sense of urgency.
Although a personal Facebook page is ‘ours’ in many respects, we need to remember that we are spokespeople for
GoCorps. How we communicate about MPD anywhere speaks something to others about our movement
GoCorps MPD Manual - 48
How should I present my support goal when people ask?
The average ministry partner most likely does not have a grasp of our financial structure. When we share with our
ministry partners the amount of support we raise, they are thinking that your total support goal is your salary.
But our support is comprised of salary, ministry expenses, benefits, Social Security (both the employee's and
employer's contributions) and administrative overhead. When a ministry partner thinks of his salary, he or she is
only thinking about what he gets in his paycheck. He does not realize that his company may actually be paying an
additional 46% to keep him at his job. That additional 46% includes the employer's portion of Social Security,
benefits, training expenses, administrative costs, etc. This is why it may be difficult for a ministry partner to
comprehend why we need to raise the amount of support we do.
Your ministry partner may also look at our benefits charge and compare it (unfairly) to the amount her employer
deducts from her paycheck for medical coverage. Since unlike things are being compared, there will always be a
disparity between these amounts.
When this situation arises, you may explain to your ministry partner that what we call our benefits charge includes
the full cost (employer and employee portions) of your medical coverage, disability insurance, and worker's
compensation.
Gently remind your partner that her employer subsidizes or pays in full many of these costs, which are never
reflected on her paycheck.
Our ministry partners need to understand that [GoCorps PSO] has no central funds to cover staff salaries, benefits
and ministry expenses, and that we are responsible for raising support to cover all of our expenses.
In addition, some missions organizations supplement the expenses of their missionaries. For instance, they may help
a missionary with housing.
In light of this, it is usually not a good idea to share with people your total goal. If they ask, you do need to share
this information for we have nothing to hide. But the way we share the information is very important.
The following chart on the next page is the best way to communicate your support goal to an individual or Church
missions committee. This is available on mpdonline.org on the staff web.
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SUPPORT GOAL PRESENTATION TEMPLATE
Name
Address
Home Phone Number:
Work Phone Number
Children (names and ages)
Missions Agency
____Your PSO_____
Address
City, State Zip
Phone
Ministry
Location of Ministry
MONTHLY SUPPORT NEEDS
Salary
Salaries are based upon marital status, number of children, tenure with
[GoCorps PSO], and geographic area. For couples, this represents
compensation for both husband and wife.
Ministry Expenses
Training, conferences, supplies, materials for discipleship and evangelism,
communication with ministry partners, automobile expenses, etc.
Benefits
Includes group medical and dental insurance, life insurance, disability
insurance, worker's compensation.
Social Security
Since [GoCorps PSO] is a non-profit organization, staff members are
responsible for paying the entire amount of Social Security.
Administrative Charge (international staff funding and administrative)
Total Support Goal
Total Solid Support
Monthly Support Needed
GoCorps MPD Manual - 50
MY TOP SEVEN MPD ACTION STEPS
1.
way
Within two days, find someone to go through my presentation with. (Maybe practice in the car/plane on the
home.)
2.
Finish namestorming.
3.
Find two daily prayer partners.
4.
5.
6.
7.
GoCorps MPD Manual - 51
Final Thoughts
Being a GoCorps goer includes the privilege of Ministry Partner Development. Before you can report overseas it is
essential that you invite others to partner with you in your ministry by giving financially or praying regularly for
you. MPD can be an exciting way to see God provide for you and meet new people who will be encouraged by your
ministry.
In order to be officially hired as a volunteer you must have your support completed. Be sure you know the
deadlines as determined by your region or ministry.
We realize that to raise between $35,000 to $45,000 (depending on your particular goal) between April and August
is faith-stretching! God must provide for you and work supernaturally through your ministry to potential ministry
partners. At the same time there are some particular choices that you can make now that will have a profound
impact on your ability to report on August 10. Here are some facts about goers past experiences. (Based on a survey
conducted by the Campus Crusade for Christ ):
Working Another Job vs. Focusing Full-Time on MPD
• 25% of volunteers who worked a different job while raising support reported on time.
• 75% of volunteers who did not work reported on time.
Location During MPD
• 10% of volunteers who lived in their college town while raising support reported on time.
• 68% of volunteers who lived in their hometown while raising support reported on time.
Hours Devoted Weekly to MPD
• 100% of volunteers who spent 30 hours or more per week on MPD reported.
• 87% of volunteers who spent 20 hours or more per week on MPD reported.
• 50% of those who spend less than 20 hours a week on MPD reported at all.
What this means for you: We cannot require all volunteers to live at home or that they not work another part-time
job. We recognize that everyone’s situation is different, and every individual may not have the option. However,
we want you to realize that by choosing to work another job or raise support from somewhere other than
your hometown, you decrease the likelihood that you will complete your support by the deadline, AND THUS
decrease the likelihood that you actually serve in full-time ministry on campus.
Here are some practical steps you can take now:
1. Plan on moving back to your hometown after your graduation. In the vast majority of situations, you have
far more contacts in your hometown (or where your parents live) than you do in your college town. That would also
mean you should…
2. Find a (legal) way out of your lease or find a sublease if you live in an apartment. That way you will not
have that heavy cost of rent to worry about while you’re not getting paid.
3. Avoid committing to a summer job, full-time or part-time. Only work if you absolutely must have an income
to meet monthly expenses and bills you cannot cover another way.
4. Pay off as much consumer (credit card) debt as possible in the spring while you still have a job.
5. Have a plan in place to begin working on MPD as soon as possible. Start the Monday after you get back from
GO Week. You need every possible day before your go date to see your support come in.
While doing all these things many not guarantee that God will complete your support, in our experience taking these
steps of faith as soon as possible will put you in the best position to see your support come in in your 10 weeks of
MPD.
We’re praying for you! The GoCorps Team
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