By David Sena | BoldLeading.com
“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.” — Ephesians 1:13 (NIV)
Fundraising isn’t begging. It’s inviting.
When we invite people to give, we’re not pleading for ourselves—we’re welcoming them into community. We’re saying, “Come join the party. There’s good work to be done, and we get to do it together.”
I often picture it like a backyard BBQ where friends gather to help another friend paint their house or repair their porch. Everyone brings something—a dish to share, a brush, a few hours of time. There’s laughter, sweat, good food, and purpose. That’s what true fundraising is meant to feel like: a party with purpose.
The Joy of Tangible Giving
I remember talking with a businessman who visited our homeless shelter. He was successful, capable, and clearly wanted to make a difference.
In that moment, I didn’t ask for money. I mentioned that we needed pasta to make spaghetti for dinner that night. Without hesitation, he ran out, bought the pasta, and came back smiling.
That small act connected him to our mission in a personal way. Over time, he became a regular and generous donor—but more importantly, he became part of the community. He wasn’t just giving to us; he was giving with us.
We Are Facilitators of Goodness
When we lead nonprofits, we are not fundraisers first—we are facilitators of goodness.
We help people live out their compassion. We open the door so others can experience the joy of generosity and the satisfaction of shared mission.
Here are a few ways to emphasize the fact that donors become an important part of fulfilling the mission when they give:
Use we language in your mailings:
“We are serving families in crisis.”Use you language when you write to donors:
“You helped provide hope and housing.”
That’s the language of partnership, not pressure.
Creating Spaces That Feel Like Family
I always loved our annual banquets. We kept the programs short on purpose so people had time to mingle, laugh, and talk. I wanted donors to look around and see that they were part of hundreds of people who care—an extended family united by grace and purpose.
Building your email list, website, and donor journeys all serve one goal: building community. Every story, every ask, every event is an opportunity to invite people closer—to help them see that they belong.
In Christ, We Belong
When Scripture says we are “in Christ” (Ephesians 1:13), it means we are welcomed into relationship with the triune God—a community of love and shared mission.
Our fundraising should reflect that same divine pattern:
God invites us in; we invite others.
God gives grace; we give opportunity.
God builds His Church; we build community.
We are not asking for money—we are inviting friends to join the work of grace.
Reflection Questions
What would change if every donor communication felt like an invitation to a party with purpose?
How could your next event or email help people feel that they belong to something bigger than themselves?
What small, tangible ways can you help new supporters experience the joy of giving—before they ever write a check?
Final Word
When we lead in Christ, we lead from belonging, not from need.
We get to throw the kind of party where grace, generosity, and good work overflow—and everyone is welcome.
Call to Action
Join the Party With Purpose
If you lead or serve in a faith-based nonprofit, remember this: fundraising is more than asking—it’s inviting.
Let’s build communities where generosity feels like a family gathering, not a transaction.
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“We are not asking for money—we are inviting friends to join the work of grace.”
About Bold Leading
At Bold Leading, we believe God-sized dreams require prayerful dependence and practical action.
If you’re ready to move forward with confidence—or could simply use a fellow leader to pray and think with—connect with Dave Sena. Dave is an ordained minister and nonprofit enthusiast with nearly thirty years of ministry experience.
Contact: dave@boldleading.com
Visit: BoldLeading.com
“Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.” —Psalm 112:5