Articles

Do Something For Others First

By Jesse Carter

Doing something for others first before asking for money will lead to rather interesting fundraising solutions presenting themselves. Let's look at one that fits the picture perfectly.

Final Exam Care Packages

It feels good when you do something for someone else; especially, as you are engaged in a particular fundraising event. That's why this fundraiser has worked so well with the Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) at University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM).

When it comes the end of a college semester, nothing takes up a student's time like studying for final exams. I was there once and I remember all of those tireless hours of studying.

Occasionally, I would take a brief break and get myself a treat. Imagine what it would be like for a student to receive a "final exam care package" from their loved ones just in time for use during finals. Wouldn't it just make their day?

Funding The Mission

The BCM at ULM sends out a special letter in early November to all of the parents of their college students. They ask for a minimum $15 donation to supply a final exam care package for their son or daughter during finals. Of course, they will take more if parents want to donate more.

Mark Robinson, the BCM Director at ULM states, "the funds generated will help pay for over 100 Christian summer mission positions that many of the students take across the globe. Students will make a difference in places like India, Thailand, Poland, Pennsylvania and even right here in Louisiana."

Make It Easy

The BCM makes it so easy for the parents to give by sending a one page descriptive letter, a brief form that they fill out with information about their child, and include a self addressed return envelope. They only ask that the donations be made by November 24 so that the students may receive their care packages in time for finals.

On campus students will have their care packages delivered, while off-campus students will receive instructions on how to pick up their packages. Follow the BCM's example and do something for others first, then address the issue of helping fund your particular mission. You'll find that your next fundraiser will be a big hit among your donors and members as well.

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