Good Practice in Fund Raising 3 – Finding potential funders

Poor, Uncategorized
Having started to build some solid foundations for giving you the best chance of success with grant fundraising, Julia is now going to look at some aspects in a bit more detail. In this and the next posting we focus on Finding and Approaching potential funders.   How to find potential funders Keep true to your vision Know the difference you want to make and look for funding that helps you achieve it. It was passion for seeing a change or something improved that got you started, and it will be that same passion that will get you funded. Don’t let yourself be diverted by looking at whatever funding is currently available and trying to shoe-horn your project to fit a different shape. When is the best time to apply?…
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Applying for Grants Pt 2 – Think like the funder 2

Poor
As we continue to establish some solid foundations when fund raising, we will consider some more aspects of your grant application as seen through the eyes of the potential funder.     5. Financial Management – Demonstrating good governance Make sure your end of year accounts have a narrative in the trustees’ report section that endorses your application. It should detail community activities you have previously or are currently undertaking and highlight plans for the future. Ensure your accounts are filed on time and are not currently overdue with the Charity Commission or Companies House. If outstanding, this will cast doubt on your charity governance and therefore your ability to manage external funding. Your Reserves Policy is important and funders may ask to see it. It needs to explain the…
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Applying for Grants Pt 1 – Think like the funder 1

Poor
Introducing Julia I have known Julia Miller as a friend for many years. I know her heart for the poor (see bio below) and her success in raising funds to help churches in their ministries. Although she no longer works as a fundraiser her experience is invaluable. So I was delighted when she accepted my invitation to write a series for me on this important subject. Getting the Foundations right - How to be funding ready Unfortunately there are no ‘quick fixes’ when it comes to applying for funds. Standard funding letters can have some success, but in general they only generate small donations. A bit like tailoring your CV to each different job you apply for, grant funding applications are most effective when they are individually written and tailored…
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Churches that change communities – conference

Poor
Churches that Change Communities November 16th 2019 The Jubilee+ social action annual conference, which is being held in Bristol, UK is one of the first entries in my diary each year. I find it stimulating, informative, an excellent opportunity for networking and also a time to hear from God through both the speakers and times of worship and prayer. I am confident that this year’s conference will be no exception and urge you to come. It can be particularly valuable if you, colleagues, and especially church leaders, are able to come together as a team. Then, as you are nudged by God about particular issues, you can immediately discuss them with your friends and colleagues. Also, Church Leaders, it's a good way to bless those who serve faithfully in social action…
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Supporting Education in Nigeria

News, Poor
Sam Amara, based in Lagos and part of the Catalyst apostolic sphere of Newfrontiers, not only is an international church planter and Bible teacher but also, with his wife Lovette, has a huge heart for bringing high quality education to the many poor or deprived children in his nation. In June I had the joy of Sam coming to visit me. During that time I was able to record an interview with him about education and all that they are doing. I think you will be inspired as you watch. Click on picture. If you feel you would like to be involved there are links given at the end of the video, or contact Sam direct.
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Some reflections on the impact and influence of church unity

Equipping, News, Poor
I feel passionately that the world should learn from the church. But that does not imply that we should be ignorant or arrogant about what we can learn in the other direction! But, for me, ‘Thy Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven’ has a very practical and influential application. Recently I had the privilege of joining about 100 others from around the nation at a Gather Summit where unity was shared and discussed. Many towns, boroughs and cities told their stories, some, such as York, stretching over 20 years. What is unity? The gathering was shaped by the desire to share experience of unity among churches and I tried to be attentive to discern how this had come about and what was the fruit. Unity is, I…
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