YoungLives Handbook - Flipbook - Page 17
ESSENTIAL # 4:
FUNDING
It is essential for the area director and YoungLives coordinator to create a YoungLives budget and a
strategic plan for raising the budget before moving forward.
YoungLives Area Budget Example Link
Being fully aware of how to utilize Young Life’s tools for fundraising will be extremely helpful.
Relationship Centered Engagement™ is a biblical-based approach that Young Life uses to raise funds at
all levels in Young Life ministry. Relationship Centered Engagement principles can be used not only to
raise your budget, but also to start a club, area, or anything that involves mobilizing people. The
Engagement Levels and Cycle are used for the community-based fundraising facilitated by the
committee along with our staff’s Personal Donor Development experience. Relationship Centered
Engagement and the Personal Donor Development are critical as you begin to build the financial base
of the YoungLives budget. You can also get an introduction to the concepts of Relationship Centered
Engagement along with the Field Guide on the Staff and Volunteer Resources site.
In addition, keep in mind that YoungLives is often able to tap into resources that Young Life cannot
access as easily. Many churches, foundations, agencies, and individuals may show a specific interest in
funding work with teenage parents and their children. Even secular organizations can see the benefits
of mentoring for teenagers and will be willing to invest in the ministry for the sake of the young
parents and their children. YoungLives also touches the hearts of existing Young Life donors in a new
way, and many existing donors may decide to give above their regular donation amount to help support
YoungLives work.
AVENUES OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Personal Support
Personal fundraising is a responsibility of every Young Life staff person. It is vital to find supporters
who will personally invest in the YoungLives coordinator and leaders of this ministry in order to create a
healthy financial foundation. Remember: Donors are often more open to supporting a compelling
vision, especially when they feel connected to the individuals or cause they are supporting. Avoid
disqualifying potential donors before asking; offer everyone in your network the chance to contribute to
YoungLives.
Church Relationships
Churches are often significant supporters of YoungLives — through volunteers, financial support,
donations of space and supplies and prayer support. There are mission-minded and compassionoriented churches in every community that will partner with YoungLives. Compile a list of the churches
and pastors in the community where you will be serving adolescent parents and take time to learn
about each church.
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