YoungLives Handbook - Flipbook - Page 57
ESSENTIAL # 4:
FUNDING
It is essential for the area director and YoungLives coordinator of YoungLives Dads to create a
YoungLives Dads 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 ministries for YoungLives Dads may access resources that Young Life
ministries typically find less accessible. Many churches, foundations, agencies, and individuals show a
specific interest in supporting work with YoungLives Dads and their children. Even secular
organizations recognize the benefits of mentoring for teenagers and are often willing to invest in these
ministries. Moreover, existing Young Life donors may be particularly moved by the initiatives for
YoungLives Dads, prompting them to increase their regular donations to support this new 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 4 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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