writing an effective support letter
Remember: Support letters are MOST EFFECTIVE when used in correlation with a one-on-one conversation.
1. Make a list of people you know. Don’t forget: businesses, mission committees, Sunday school classes, teachers, friends, and family members. Also, don’t prejudge people as to whether or not they may want to help you. Most of the time, a volunteer’s money comes from the most unlikely sources. It is a blessing for people to give to you because they may not be able to go themselves.
2. Write your support letter. Let it reflect your heart and why you feel the Lord is leading you to go on this particular project. Let your personality show through your letter. Be honest about your needs and let God deal with people’s hearts. Also, tell them as much as you know about the specific project. People want to know exactly how they are investing in the kingdom. Be as specific as you can.
3. Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope in your letter. Have your donors make checks payable to ISF with your name on the “memo” line of the check. Or provide instructions about online giving - Go to www.sportsmissions.com/give, place the amount next to "A Volunteer Support," and include volunteer's name in the comment box.
4. Follow-up your letter with a phone call. Let your supporters know how excited you are about your project and check to see if they have any questions. Remember, they are your friends. They are usually glad to help and are excited for you. Don’t dread the follow-up call! Don’t forget to thank the people who give. Thank-you notes and reports from the field are good tools for saying thanks as well.
LETTER TIPS:
BE YOURSELF! Put the things you think will be important to the people who know you. Be fun! It is exciting to go on an international mission project. Don’t hide your excitement! Be creative with your insert and prayer reminder. Having a good base of prayer support is vital to your project. Never underestimate the power of prayer. Your donors are now a part of this experience. Make them feel that way. What you do would not be possible without the financial help that they provide. Help them see that their investment is worthwhile.
BE YOURSELF! Put the things you think will be important to the people who know you. Be fun! It is exciting to go on an international mission project. Don’t hide your excitement! Be creative with your insert and prayer reminder. Having a good base of prayer support is vital to your project. Never underestimate the power of prayer. Your donors are now a part of this experience. Make them feel that way. What you do would not be possible without the financial help that they provide. Help them see that their investment is worthwhile.
Here are a couple sample support letters as examples.
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