Share The Hope
No matter how dark your days are, you can still find a ray of light and hope. More Giving Stories To Inspire be that beacon of hope to all who need you.
As pastors and church leaders, your job to guide the congregation is even more crucial during a global pandemic. We have compiled the following examples of good happening in the world, to encourage you and your teams to keep a positive mind no matter the situation.
Read on for a few stories of compassion and charity during the coronavirus pandemic.
Social Justice Activism and Solidarity in Sports
Transformative change requires just one individual to stand up and make a difference. Even simple acts of kindness and building community, one heart at a time, can go a long way.
During the pandemic, the NBA announced it was suspending operations. For the wealthy athletes, a regular paycheck would barely put a dent in their pockets. However, players who come from less fortunate families depend on their sports for survival, as do the employees of the sports venues.
When Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love donated $100,000 to the workers and support staff at Quicken Loans Arena, he spread a message of hope in time of crisis.
“I’m concerned about the level of anxiety that everyone is feeling,” Love wrote on Instagram. “And that is why I’m committing $100,000 through the @KevinLoveFund in support of the @Cavs arena and support staff that had a sudden life shift due to the suspension of the NBA season. I hope that during this time of crisis, others will join me in supporting our communities.”
He went on to share the following:
“Pandemics are not just a medical phenomenon. They affect individuals and society on so many levels, with stigma and xenophobia being just two aspects of the impact of a pandemic outbreak. It’s important to know that those with a mental illness may be vulnerable to the effects of widespread panic and threat. Be kind to one another. Be understanding of their fears, regardless if you don’t feel the same. Is safe and make informed decisions during this time. And I encourage everyone to take care of themselves and to reach out to others in need—whether that means supporting your local charities that are canceling events, or checking in on your colleagues and family.”
Education Subscriptions Waived During the Pandemic
Online schooling saw a surge during the pandemic. And even now, online courses are the way to reach many whom you could not before.
If you are planning online Bible studies or resource material in digital form for your donors, you won’t be affected too drastically by social distancing. With the right tools, you can keep up communications with your congregation, ensuring that they also have a lifeline to you as their spiritual guides.
During the pandemic, many online education companies offered free subscriptions so that families could benefit from learning.
Check out Amazing Educational Resources for the complete list of companies that are waiving their subscription fees and making a difference through accessible education for all.
Households Increased Their Giving
In the U.K., Giving Tuesday saw huge growth in the number of people who helped out with whatever gifts they could contribute to this global fundraiser. Many of the individuals donated on behalf of their personal families and intimate circles.
Support also grew during the pandemic for causes that supported animal rights, disability support groups, and homeless shelters.
A survey noted that 21% of U.S. households gave to charitable organizations that supported education, arts, and the environment. As you can see, COVID-19 might have been keeping people inside their homes, but many opened up their hearts and capacity for giving generously in even greater numbers.
Hope for Your Nonprofit
Donations and donors make up a significant part of your church’s revenue. You may have seen a drastic drop in church attendance and the resulting gifts expected every week or month. But don’t give up hope. If you are willing to pivot during the pandemic and embrace the new era of giving, it is possible that new avenues of support can also open up to you
We are all facing challenges during this time, and it can seem as if the tunnel never ends. But there is light at the end of it. We hope these stories inspire you to keep encouraging your church members and managing teams to do the work on which your missions depend.
How DonorWerx Can Help
For more information on getting your church set up for online giving, call our DonorWerx hotlines. We provide tools for small to large churches and nonprofits that want to upgrade their digital presence.
When selecting partners for your website or online giving strategies, it is important to work with folks who have experience with nonprofit organizations. There is a definite roadmap to success, and we can help you navigate through it.
Contact us today to find out more.
