Donations are crucial for parishes to fund their vision. But, it’s challenging to budget and plan for future missions when gifts are sporadic. That’s why healthy and growing parishes focus on consistent giving. When donors schedule recurring gifts, donate on a routine basis, and give to specific funds consistently, the parish can better forecast and be even more impactful. Here we look at 7 actionable ways to inspire consistent giving and grow your parish.
1. Start a recurring giving program
Scheduled donations are one of the best ways to increase giving. People choose the frequency of the gift such as weekly or monthly, the amount, and the preferred payment method. Then, the gift is automatically deducted on a recurring basis.
Go a step further than just encouraging people to sign up for recurring giving. Make it a special program, so you engage more people to join. Consider an annual luncheon or a monthly newsletter for recurring givers where you share the impact of their donations.
2. Provide multiple ways to give
Only 11% of people prefer using cash, and nearly half of those that do carry cash have less than $20 on them. That’s why it’s so important to provide multiple ways to give. People are more likely to donate consistently when their preferred payment method is accepted.
For some, it’s easier to give on your website using a debit card or eCheck as they pay bills. Others prefer giving on-the-go using a mobile app and their credit card, and younger generations like the convenience of donating via text. Giving kiosks are an excellent solution for those that want to give during mass but forgot to go to the ATM. Plus, with ParishSOFT Giving’s reporting features and integrations, tracking and managing gifts from
3. Be consistent in your messaging
Talking about money is difficult for many parish leaders, but it’s important to do it often if your goal is to create consistent givers. Share the different ways people can give at every mass and take the time to show them how to set up an online giving account.
Don’t gloss over the offering part of mass or say the same thing every time. People tend to tune out the message if it’s too repetitive. Change it up to keep the message fresh and inspiring.
4. Share real examples of how giving impacts lives
People are more inspired to give consistently when they can see the impact their gifts make. Share real examples of how recurring generosity touches lives in your community and around the globe. Use pictures, videos, and tell engaging stories, so donors experience the results even if they weren’t there. By doing this, you show people that giving matters beyond spiritual growth and a feeling of obligation. It makes a real difference in everyday lives.
5. Provide financial help through classes
One great way to encourage consistent giving is to host financial classes at your parish. Many people that come to mass are struggling financially. By educating them with professional advice, they’ll see that with a few smart adjustments to their budget, they can donate on a regular basis. Not only do these classes taught by experts help active parishioners, but they also bring people in the community to the parish who have never visited before.
6. Thank consistent givers often
Did you know 91% of organizations stop acknowledging recurring gifts by the 3rd month? While people don’t give to the parish to be thanked, showing gratitude for consistent contributions goes a long way. When you send a quality and heartfelt thank-you note, 41% of people are more likely to donate again, and 24% increase their current donation before the year is over.
7. Engage with givers beyond Sunday
Make sure you’re reaching out to your parish beyond Sunday. With online giving tools, church apps, websites, and social media, you can engage with donors every day of the week.
Use push notifications for fundraisers that need immediate attention like when a natural disaster occurs in your area. Send emails inviting people to mass if they haven’t been in a while and keep everyone informed about prayer requests. Let people know that even when they’re not at church, they can still make a difference.
Inspire consistent giving at your parish with ParishSOFT’s Giving Success Coaches and our free giving marketing kit! Call 866-930-4774 x6 or email parishsoftsales@parishsoft.com to learn more!
