If you have a Partner Account for Individuals, I’m sure you already know that you get notified when there has been a change in your account, for example, someone setting up a new gift. But did you know that you can sign into your account and also find all the information you need about your supporters?
Your one-off and regular supporters’ details
You can quickly find a list of all your regular and one-off supporters by clicking the ‘insights’ tab and choosing ‘regular supporters’.
You can find your supporter’s postal address and email addresses by clicking on the arrow at the end of the row, so that you can easily contact them. Of course, you probably have that info already, but in your Stewardship account, you have it all handy in one place.
Your supporters are vital to your ministry – let them know this
We know that the relationship between you and your supporters is a very important one and that it is not just financial. Built and managed well, a partner team can be a source of immense encouragement and prayer. They are a team of cheer leaders on the side, willing you on in the difficult times and celebrating with you in the times of joy.
But this all takes work. Your partners need to know that you don’t just see them as a money tree, but as a vital part of your ministry. They need to feel part of the vision and that, while they sit at their desk in their office or wherever they spend their days, the money God has blessed them with is being used to build the Kingdom through enabling your Christian work. Whether you create spaces for young people to hang out, work in HR in a Christian charity, travel overseas to bring the Gospel to new people groups, or are studying for ministry, your partners need to know that they are a part of making that happen.
Effective communication is key
Newsletters serve a purpose, but a personal email can be more meaningful. Instead of lengthy updates every six months, consider sending short, regular messages that highlight a recent event and a prayer request. While digital communication is instant and easy, a handwritten postcard goes a long way in conveying care and appreciation. Maintaining this relationship involves intentional communication, ensuring your partners feel connected to the impact their support is making in your Christian work.
For more thoughts on communicating with supporters, go to ‘Resources for Christian Workers – getting your message across’.
Mission
Bi-monthly emails for Christian workers and Bible College students. Encouragement, practical tools and training to strengthen you in your support raising journey.
Jo Arkell
Jo helps and encourages Christian workers to be fully resourced for the work God has put before them. She passionately wants people called into ministry not to scrape by but to be equipped, encouraged and to have the confidence in their support raising and creating new partners.
Previously Jo was at home for 15 years as a mum to four sons as well as taking on many roles including preaching and teaching in her local church. She also volunteers for Familylife, a couples ministry of Agape.
Jo lives in East London with her husband and four sons and anytime left over is spent running, swimming, cycling and walking the family dog, Pepper.
Jo supports causes that care for the most marginalised in our society, those caught in addiction, debt and causes that provide education for those with few opportunities.
