Managing fundraising for an organization can be challenging at best. One of the first questions we get asked by anyone running an orphanage, food bank, or any other ministry is, “How do you fund it?” This rambling article is not a request for funds. This is meant as an encouragement to give intentionally, give wisely, and give in a way that honors everyone involved. Here are a few random observations on fundraising. Continue reading
“I’d Rather Help Kids in America”
It doesn’t happen often, but now and then, people have an odd reaction when they hear that I work at an orphanage in Mexico. They say, “I’d rather help kids in America.” This statement brings up so many uncomfortable and unhealthy issues. The snarky side of me really wants to say, “Great, what are you doing for kids in America?” I can almost guarantee they aren’t doing anything for anybody. Continue reading
Who Will You Follow?
Leadership in ministry matters. This sounds like an obvious statement, but it’s amazing how little thought is given to this. Who we partner with, who is hosting us in ministry, is everything. Ministry is a top-down thing. If the leadership is weak, the best funding, planning, or organization in the world won’t help. An organization will never be better than its leader. Continue reading
Short-term Missions is Money Well Spent
Short-term missions are a very big deal in the American church. One out of three churches will send a team internationally this year. Tens of thousands of people and many millions of dollars will be dedicated to these efforts. Why? Why do we as individuals, or a church body, put all of these resources into these trips? Sometimes it’s good to step back and just ask the simple, but important, question: Are short-term missions worth all the funds and resources dedicated to them? Continue reading
DJ from the orphanage 