Fundraising for Churches: 12 Keys to Success Every Church Leader Should Know was written because your church or faith-based organization needs to raise money, including annual operating support as well as capital and endowment funds for building and maintenance. Of the $358 billion that was donated in the United States last year, one-third, or nearly $115 billion, went to religious causes. While this is clearly a huge sum, that percentage has been declining for years, from over half of the money given away. Why the decline? It could be that we as a nation are less faithful than our ancestors. Perhaps there are just more choices for giving. No matter the cause, what can be done about this decline in giving to churches? The authors, Linda Wise McNay, PhD and Sarah B. Mathews, CFRE, believe that churches and other faith-based organizations need to become more adept at raising funds, just like any other type of nonprofit. McNay and Mathews explain that no longer can we be idle bystanders and passively wait to see what comes in the collection plate or depend on people to embrace tithing. In this powerful book they show us, step-by-step, that there are things we can do to help the process along. Fundraising for Churches: 12 Keys to Success Every Church Leader Should Know is written with church leaders in mind-whether they are clergy or other staff members, or lay leaders and volunteers. By the time you have finished reading it, you will have a clear understanding of how to raise meaningful dollars. More to the point, you will have the confidence to launch a highly ambitious and successful fundraising campaign. Contents Chapter One: There are Three Secrets to Successful Fundraising Chapter Two: You Must Have a Compelling Case for Support Chapter Three: Strong Leadership is Essential Chapter Four: You Must Have a Written Strategy/Plan Chapter Five: Everyone is a Prospect Chapter Six: The Spiritual Side of Giving: Churches Have an Advantage Chapter Seven: Operational Funds Have Less Donor Appeal, but They are Essential Chapter Eight: Your Major Gifts Strategy is the Fastest Way to Raise More Funds Chapter Nine: Capital Campaigns Will Likely Occur During Your Tenure. Be Prepared! Chapter Ten: Endowment Building is Critical for the Future of Your Church Chapter Eleven: Innovations and Technology Can Jumpstart Your Fundraising Chapter Twelve: Your Annual Pledge Drive May Be in October, but Stewardship is All Year Round