After The Storm: How to Shape Our Mercy Ministries for Long-term Success

SONYA STEARNS
Network Manager
Read more from Sonya

 

Listen to this article:

Media coverage of the devastation wrought by recent hurricanes alerted us to the awful conditions many Americans suffered. The images of isolated communities without help for days and testimonies of hopelessness have been heart-wrenching.

Reports of outstanding organizations and private companies offering relief through funding, personnel, and supplies are inspiring. Yet recovery in many areas will take months and years, not days or weeks. Collaboration between local nonprofits and churches will be pivotal in providing the ongoing assistance needed for individuals to thrive again.

Hurricane survivor scenarios are very similar to those experiencing poverty during normal weather conditions. Many struggle to make ends meet because they have been devastated by family, medical, or employment storms. And while government, private agencies, and churches and nonprofits can be outstanding sources of short-term relief, few of them will help with long-term recovery. Individuals are often left isolated to clean up—personally, financially, and communally. Instead, they need a functioning social network to help them strive toward independence and flourishing. 

Many True Charity Network Members do an excellent job of building programs that provide the relationships and opportunities to make that happen. These nonprofits and churches do so by avoiding the pitfall of making individuals dependent on their services. Instead, they walk alongside the people they serve to help them become independent, self-sustaining contributors to their communities. How can you do that, too?

Here are five suggestions for helping people after their “storm.”

1. Educate your people so the proper foundation is laid 

Serving people well takes time. Most of us recognize that having a 10-15 minute training conversation with a volunteer or staff worker before they start serving is sufficient for short-term relief but probably insufficient to make a long-term difference. So how do you comprehensively train staff, church members, and other volunteers to serve individuals with long-term success in mind?

True Charity has easy-to-follow video courses designed for group viewing or individual engagement. True Charity University (TCU) offers many free courses, including the foundational Seven Marks of Effective Charity. Anyone can create an account, complete each course, and receive a certificate of completion. Other courses are available to the public for a nominal fee. (Network member organizations receive everything on TCU free of charge for up to 10 people.)

True Charity’s Volunteer Engagement Toolkit, which features the Beyond Volunteering Video Series, is an excellent training resource. Many nonprofit organizations report using it as the basis for their volunteer and staff training.

Network members also have access to a webinar library covering topics like Program Design, Best Practices, and Community Collaboration. Most True Charity live webinars are free to the public.

2. Inventory your outreach programs while planning for the future

What services are offered by other organizations in your area? Try not to duplicate them — but if you do, take heart! That means you probably have the personnel and resources to craft other programs or classes that meet deeper developmental needs.

Decide what should be scaled down or cut altogether. This is hard but necessary. Some programs have served your community well for years, but their time is up. Others simply need to be tweaked. Regardless, just about every program will thrive better with some changes.

True Charity’s Program Refinement Toolkit (PRT) walks nonprofit and church workers through a comprehensive plan to evaluate their mercy ministries and outreach services. Accompanied by a workbook, the PRT is easy to implement with a staff, committee, or group of volunteers.

3. Build sustainable programs and classes focused on development and long-term outcomes

Just as communities devastated by hurricanes need months and years to recover, individuals in poverty need ample time to recuperate from what may have been years of dependency and hopelessness.

That type of recovery and development requires persistence on your part and commitment to the process on theirs. “No-strings-attached” hand-outs of food, clothing, and other material items do not meet those sustainability and development requirements.

Veteran charity and church workers understand that individuals are more likely to succeed when they realize they are capable of developing their own solutions — and are willing to do so. True Charity teaches that every person is created with the capacity to contribute and create. Those capacities might have been buried or damaged by life’s storms long ago, but they lie waiting to be uncovered. When we function under the belief every person is created in God’s image (the Imago Dei), our long-term results will be measurably better. 

True Charity Network members can access detailed program plans through the Model Action Plan (MAP) library. Each step-by-step guide is designed to help an organization or church of any size begin a specific program suited to their community’s needs and context. Examples include starting or improving a Christmas Market, Food Co-op, Childcare Program, Mentoring Program, Work Shuttle, Benevolence Ministry, and temporary housing programs.

A thoroughly researched Recommended Client Classes and Programs Library on the network members’ portal can help nonprofits and churches determine which classes to offer and what resources they need to get started.

4. Regularly evaluate and revise your mercy ministry or benevolence program 

Just as no person is perfect, neither is a program or organization. We can all improve!

Have a plan for analyzing and comparing your outputs (including volunteer hours and fiscal expenses) to your desired results (outcomes). Ask pertinent questions of your volunteers, committee members, or staff every quarter. One question you must consider is, “In 2, 5, or 10 years, where do we want this individual or family to be financially, relationally, and spiritually?” Another fitting question is, “How can we help this person or family live independently (i.e., not needing outside assistance —  including ours)?”

If your mercy ministry keeps individuals and families dependent on you for the long term, it’s time for a change. A well-executed and regular evaluation plan will always propel you toward better results!

True Charity’s Outcomes Toolkit can help you identify and measure desired long-term outcomes. As mentioned earlier, the Program Refinement Toolkit has several resources to help you inventory your results.

5. Collaborate with others and plan for broader community impact

A sense of community is pivotal for individuals and organizations. Join forces with other churches and nonprofits. Communicate regularly with community leaders.

Purchase software to share pertinent information about the people you serve in common with other service providers in the area. Establish regular meetings and training opportunities so the entire community can move toward flourishing.

Network members can host a full-day TC Community Workshop or a TC Gathering to build buy-in with their community. Organizations can also invite a True Charity staff member to speak at a community event, fundraiser, or gala.

Storms come and go, and damages vary by degree. That’s true for hurricane victims —  and non-weather “storm” survivors. With both, short-term relief is sometimes necessary, but it is always a temporary solution. If we don’t follow it with long-term developmental help, we fail to help those in poverty achieve long-term sustainability.

We can do better. We can model our mercy ministries to meet deeper needs, walking alongside others to help them write their own success stories. We can help them live flourishing lives. And we can begin today!

Need help getting started? Take the Path to Effective Charity Quiz to see which True Charity tools can help you right now in your nonprofit or church work.

 

Is Your Mission Statement B.I.G. Enough?

Nathan Mayo
Vice President of Operations & Programs
Read more from Nathan

 

 

Listen to this article:

What’s a mission statement for?

A mission statement answers the question “Why does our organization exist?” It’s an important question that deserves a thoughtful answer.

In the military, a mission statement is a single sentence that describes the objective and answers the who, what, where, when, and why of the operation.

For example: Alpha Company defends in Battle Position Hammer not later than 0600 hours 21SEP24 to destroy the 501st Mechanized Infantry advance guard, in order to deny access to the town of Braunfels.

Subordinate units create missions that “nest” with the parent units. In the example above, the mission of one of Alpha Company’s four platoons might be to occupy an adjacent hill and provide fire support. That kind of clarity and unified effort is critical to the success of the operation; every soldier will carry a copy of his unit’s mission.

Military mission statements are a powerful illustration of an important truth: a mission statement needs to be inspirational and practical. It may express sentiments that appeal to prospective donors but it should also guide your church or nonprofit – and all its subordinate programs — toward fulfillment of its goals.

Before exploring what makes a great mission statement, it’s helpful to note the complementary role other statements can play in keeping your ministry on track and on message. Note also that while every nonprofit needs a mission, you may choose to forgo some of the following — or postpone them until your ministry reaches the point where you sense they are needed.

 Vision: Describes the end goal and what the world will look like if your mission succeeds.

  • Example: “A city where no one sleeps outside.”

Tagline: Two to five words that capture the essence of your brand for outsiders.

  • Example: “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” or “Work Awakens Worth”

Values: Characteristics of the organizational culture you want to build.

  • Example: Faith, Edification, Tenacity

 Elevator Pitch: A few sentences explaining what you do and why it matters.

 

Characteristics of a good mission statement

The best mission statement will be B.I.G. — Brief, Inspiring, and Guide Action. In developing one, it’s important to remember those objectives live in tension with each other. Trade-offs are inevitable but by keeping them in mind you can ensure your statement reflects each of these characteristics appropriately:

Brief: Brevity is the soul of memorability. A mission statement that people have to look up is less likely to be effective. You should be able to say it in 5-10 seconds. That said, some organizations push brevity to the extreme, such as TED’s “Spread ideas,” which does little to guide action.

Inspiring: Carefully chosen words can be universally inspiring and should energize people to come to work every day. Use them to describe the people you serve, the world you want to see, or the faith that motivates your existence.  Avoid jargon and wording that may cause offense to clients, donors, and even opponents.

Guide Action: A key responsibility of executive leadership (including your board of directors) is to keep your organization on mission. Mission drift is a serious threat; and it becomes exceedingly difficult to gauge if your statement is so broad as to encompass all good things (i.e., “We exist to make humans flourish”). Conversely, a mission statement too focused on current programming may require frequent revision. While your statement alone will not provide all of the strategic focus necessary to succeed, it should set a clear enough bearing that your ship isn’t left adrift on the tides of urgency. 

While every statement will balance these elements differently, here are some from True Charity Network Members that do a fine job:

 

“Empowering single mothers in their pursuit of a new beginning.” – Genesis Project, Greeley, CO

 

“Serving the Church in its mission to help the poor.” – Watered Gardens Ministries, Joplin, MO

 

“To encourage all fathers by providing inspiration, resources and events to help dads be the best they can be.” – Good Dads, Springfield, MO

 

“Motivated by God’s love, we partner with our neighbors in need, equip volunteers, respond to disasters, and strengthen communities to inspire greater hope in our world.” – HOPE Worldwide, Shakopee, MN

 

“We put the right tools in the hands of youth, enabling them to advance their skills to build productive lives.” – Bearings Bike Works, Atlanta, GA

 

“We remove barriers to ensure that every person — no matter their race, past mistakes, or the circumstances of their birth — has access to a quality education, fulfilling work, and a healthy family life.” – Georgia Center for Opportunity, Peachtree, GA

 

“To take a person from surviving to thriving.” – InnerMission, Hammond, IN

 

“Leading people on a lifelong journey to encounter God, find freedom, discover purpose and love others.” – Community Church, St. Simons, GA

In sum: You have a big mission —  it deserves a B.I.G. mission statement!

 

End Blurb: The True Charity Network exists to help you learn, connect, and influence in the realm of effective charity.  Learn more about the Network here.

Already a member? Get access to all of your benefits through the member portal.

 

Exchange Models Done Right: Eight Ways to Empower Without Exploiting

Nathan Mayo
Vice President of Operations & Programs
Read more from Nathan

 

 

Listen to this article:

For most able-bodied adults, paid employment is essential to the long-term path out of poverty. To effect that outcome, many of our network members use a partial-exchange, intermediate-steps model that teaches the skills necessary to succeed in the marketplace. 

Such models are a means — because challenge spurs development; and an end — because the revenue generated by participants’ growing skill level allows the programs to serve more people than donations alone. 

However, while such models are generous and wise, they can appear to exploit the vulnerable. This may be a mere matter of appearance. Or it could be actual exploitation caused by imprudent implementation. In either case, this can lead not only to poor public relations but to civil or criminal prosecution. That’s why it’s important to be familiar with your state’s employment law and consult an attorney to ensure legal compliance. In addition, here are eight approaches that will help you maximize your ministry’s ethical behavior and avoid the appearance of evil.

1)   Volunteering in exchange for services should be at a subsidized rate

A good first step out of perpetual crisis relief is asking people to serve others as volunteers in exchange for things they need. Ideas include earn-it models like boxing food at a food co-op or weeding a community garden in exchange for assistance with an electric bill. 

Whenever you employ this approach, make sure the economic value of what partners receive is greater than the market value of their labor. These models typically cap the amount of partnership possible in a given time frame so they don’t become a form of regular employment.

2)    Revenue generated from clients should go directly to other clients

Any revenue generated by the effort of people in need (e.g., selling produce from the community garden) should be set aside for meeting the needs of those who have generated it. Similarly, client fees, such as the price parents pay for gifts at a Christmas Market, should go straight back to clients (in this case, credit toward buying gifts the following year). 

While that requires more accounting work than just putting all revenue into your general fund, it allows you to document that all partner contributions go directly to helping other partners — and none goes to staff salaries. This prevents exploitation since no amount of client volume will enrich the program operators by a penny. The more that comes in from these sources, the more that flows out to others in need.

3)    For unpaid work training, keep clients out of their area of specialty

In the initial phase of a residential or job training program, it’s common for a trainee to spend a couple of weeks with a coach who teaches them how to be a good employee. It seems only natural that a student with specific work skills be placed in a job where those skills are used.

Yet the caution is: Don’t do it. Yes, from the perspective of personal asset development that’s counterintuitive. However, from a legal and public relations perspective, it’s a wise move. For instance, helping a former construction worker learn new soft skills while working a kitchen internship sends a clear signal he’s in the program for his benefit. If you employ him to do some skilled remodeling, it may appear that he has been coaxed into the program to reduce the nonprofit’s labor cost. It’s also worth noting unpaid internships shouldn’t last more than a few weeks.

4)    Ensure that full-time programming involves more instruction than work

In the scenario above, the work training program should not involve more than 20 hours a week of on-the-job training. The remaining hours should be filled with classroom instruction, time for personal study, spiritual development, etc. In other words, combining work and non-work activities makes it a work training program. If more labor than training is involved, it appears students are there for your benefit versus theirs.

5)    When residential clients find jobs externally, keep pay in their names

In residential life transformation programs, students often seek employment in the community. Yet, a new cash stream for someone addicted to a controlling substance just a few months ago can be counterproductive. But if you keep their earnings (even if they are small and fail to cover legitimate program costs), students can easily feel like indentured servants with no way to leave the program.

An effective solution is to set their earnings aside in their name with limited access to the funds and deductions for agreed-upon program fees. It’s also acceptable to encourage program completion by requiring a fee refundable at graduation. People can then graduate with significant savings commensurate with their employment while in the program. Those who leave early should be entitled to their earnings, less agreed-upon deductions, regardless of the circumstances of their departure.

6)    Communicate expectations in writing

For participants in long-term residential programs, there should be no misunderstanding about work expected and pay received. Provide them with a resident agreement form that outlines terms in plain language — and talk them through it. After they’ve had time to review it and ask questions, they should sign the agreement to acknowledge acceptance of its terms.

7)    Full-scale social enterprises should be model employers

Some ministries establish enterprises designed to employ difficult-to-employ people, either as a stepping stone to independence or a permanent work situation. The employer-employee relationship should be clear with the enterprise providing pay, benefits, and management practices that meet or exceed industry standards. In the best case, employees should also gain transferable professional certifications relevant to their work.

8)    Any debt accrued should be forgivable

An interest-free loan can be a dignified way to help someone through a tough time (Deuteronomy 15:7-8). However, entrapping someone in long-term debt to ministries is unacceptable. All loans should specify generous conditions for forgiveness — but clearly state default may result in consequences (such as the inability to qualify for additional assistance).

Your programs exist to serve people in need and there’s little doubt every one committed to their success sacrifices to make it happen. That said, it’s important all concerned understand development means the person in need receives more than they give. Otherwise, the situation ceases to be charity and becomes a mutually beneficial business transaction. Always be prepared to explain the distinction to those tempted to think your program exploits those in need. Build your programs generously and communicate their design proactively.

And while communicating with skeptics and prospective donors is important, it’s even more important to convey to those you serve that you see their capacity and you’re there to help develop it — not take advantage of them. Most of them have experienced too much of that kind of abuse.

Network Members, be sure to check out the Earn-it MAP and Residential Life Transformation MAP to dig deeper into exchange models. 

Not a network member, visit truecharity.us/join to join today. 

 

Bringing the Path into Focus: An Innovative Tool to Simplify Your Ministry’s Next Step in the Fight Against Poverty

BETHANY HERRON
Vice President of Education
Read more from Bethany

 

Listen to this article:

 

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth … 

Robert Frost isn’t the only one who has lacked directional clarity. Does any of this sound familiar?

  • “Should I refine our benevolence ministry?” 
  • “Is it time to implement relational case management?”
  • “Now that we’ve refined our programs, how do we get the community on board?”
  • “Which path will make the biggest difference in our fight against poverty?” 

If you’ve ever wished someone would come alongside you, link arms, and help you answer tough questions like that, I have good news for you.

The wait is over. 

True Charity network members now have access to The Path to Effective Charity, an innovative tool that redirects over a century’s worth of well-intentioned but misapplied charity practices. In many cases, those practices have hurt more than they’ve helped and created enormous confusion for nonprofits and churches seeking clear, trustworthy guidance for questions regarding their specific phase in charity-related ministry.

To fully appreciate the value and impact of The Path to Effective Charity, it’s worth … 

A Quick Look at the History of Charity in the U.S. 

Family and community-driven. Relational. Empowering. 

One hundred years ago, these principles characterized charity best-practices that enabled many to break the chains of poverty. The path to that end was clear and ministry workers knew it, as evidenced by these comments from the early 1900s:  

Charity organizations responded by instructing all volunteers to work hard at “restoring family ties that have been sundered” and “strengthening a church or social bond that is weakened.” The prime goal of relief, all agreed, was not material distribution but “affiliation.” 

Affiliation and bonding, categorization and discernment–when the process was working well, the next key element was long-term employment of all able- bodied household heads.” 

(from The Tragedy of American Compassion)

Tragically, over the next few decades government welfare programs stepped in and the community stepped out. Personal responsibility and relational engagement was replaced with impersonal, distant aid. Dependency replaced empowerment. Consequently, the clear, well-marked path to effective charity became choked with  bureaucratic weeds. Fewer and fewer people thought the trip down that path was worth it.

However, in the last few decades, trailblazers around the nation have quietly invested their blood, sweat, and tears to recapture the past and accomplish a nationwide resurgence of effective charity. 

In that spirit, the True Charity Network is a nationwide coalition of trailblazers who believe people are made in the image of God and therefore have the dignity and capacity to live flourishing lives. Through the nationwide efforts of our brave, compassionate members, the path to effective charity becomes clearer each day. 

What Does This Mean For You?

Since 2018, network members have shared best practices with anyone wanting to do charity better. Their open-handed approach has resulted in a growing library of resources that provide guidance on fundraising, food cooperatives, residential life transformation programs, advocacy, mental health, trauma, transitional housing, benevolence programs, transportation, outcomes tracking, and so much more. In addition True Charity provides opportunities for connection through online learning experiences and at our annual Summit. 

Specifically, after years of observation, we’ve noticed most network members journey through five phases:

  • Phase 1: Get Started
  • Phase 2: Build Buy-in
  • Phase 3: Program Design 
  • Phase 4: Launch & Refine
  • Phase 5: Influence Others

Where Do I Start on the Path?

 

Our team has created a simple quiz to help you discover your current location on The Path to Effective Charity. After you take the quiz, you’ll be placed within one of the five phases listed above. Then, you’ll receive recommended resources to help you succeed in that phase. 

As a bonus, you don’t have to be a network member to access this quiz. However, be aware recommended tools are reserved for network members. 

So if you are looking for a clearer path ahead, we invite you to discover your suggested next steps today by taking the The Path to Effective Charity quiz. We pray that with the Lord’s help, it will make all the difference in your ministry. 

 

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

 

For more information on effective charity and how your organization can implement programs that deliver long-term results to those being served, visit truecharity.us/join.

Already a member? Access your resources in the member portal.

Five Tools and Templates to Help Advertise Your Christmas Market

ALYSSA GLASGOW
Graphic Design Manager
Read more from Alyssa

 

 

Listen to this article:

 

Despite summer temperatures nearing triple digits, this is a great time to begin planning your Christmas outreach programs. If you’re thinking of starting a gift giveaway this Christmas or continuing one you’ve done for years, consider offering a Christmas Market instead! 

In a Christmas Market (or Affordable Christmas program) parents can shop and pay for highly-discounted gifts for their kids, which restores the parents’ dignity and strengthens family relationships. This format also allows your ministry to get to know families in your community in a way Traditional Giveaway programs do not. 

Changing a long-standing community tradition can be tough so here are five tools and templates to make the transition easier and ensure the Market’s success.

1. Donor Education Resource

Christmas Markets can only thrive with willing givers who donate their time, money, and resources. That means you must convince them their efforts will make an impact. 

Our two-page “Giving Guide” will do just that. It walks them through empowering charity basics and provides seven questions to help them assess a program’s effectiveness. 

2. Marketing Checklist

A lot of planning and detail go into a successful event. So, we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for promoting your Christmas market, before, during, and after the event.

3. Event Flier and Donation List Template

A printed reminder to hang on the fridge is still valuable in this digital age. You can modify this flier template with your specific details and distribute it to local businesses–or hand it out around town. This recommended donation list can also be adapted for church and community members to add to their bulletin boards or to take home.

4. Powerpoint Slide and Social Media Graphics

Since we do live in a digital age, don’t forget to advertise in this space. Customize this Powerpoint slide to send to local churches for their morning announcements. We’ve also included social media graphic templates to increase community awareness and provide specific calls-to-action. 

5. Shopper Invitation Template

The goal is to encourage parents to shop at your Christmas market! You can use this template to invite them to participate. Thanks to Mile High Ministries of Denver, CO for providing the original content for this invitation. 

 

You can find more helpful resources through our Christmas Market Model Action Plan, available to True Charity Network members. It will give you step-by-step instructions that can be tailored to your community’s needs. It also highlights how multiple organizations have implemented Christmas programs to fit their unique contexts. All these programs share the common goal of building relationships, preserving dignity, and empowering families.

 

This article is just the tip of the iceberg for practical resources available through the True Charity Network. Check out how it can help you learn, connect, and influence here.

Already a member? Access all your benefits through the member portal.

 

Don’t Reinvent the Wheel: Learning From Others in Ministry Design

Nathan Mayo
Vice President of Operations & Programs
Read more from Nathan

 

 

Listen to this article:

Over the years, I’ve had conversations with hundreds of ministry leaders who admit that they did as much harm as good in the early years of their work with the materially poor.

That’s understandable. Much of the learning we do in many areas of life is trial and error–and while legitimate and useful, it shouldn’t be our only approach.

Take medicine, for instance. True, research and technological advances are based on researched, refined, and perfected theories. But no one would allow a doctor to treat them if they learned he or she spent years making mistakes and was “just now getting the hang of it.” We rightfully expect medical professionals to avail themselves of medicine’s best practices in order to render the best possible care. That approach demands they take advantage of knowledge gained from other professionals doing the same thing. 

In similar fashion, many church and nonprofit leaders have discovered much of their trial and error could have been avoided had they taken advantage of the knowledge and skills developed by others doing the same work in other parts of the country. 

Indeed, if we want our ministries to be healthy, proactive learning from others doing similar work is essential. In other words, we shouldn’t waste time “reinventing the wheel.” Starting with ideas that have worked elsewhere–even if they could be improved–is far better than ignoring others’ wisdom and experience. Indeed, learning from their success doesn’t stifle creativity, it fuels it. Sadly, despite theoretical consensus on that point, too many of us act as though we’re the first person to run a benevolence ministry or developmental class. Therefore, we start everything from scratch. Here are a few ways to avoid that trap:

1)    Make Learning an Essential, Non-negotiable Priority.

The tyranny of the urgent makes holding to this difficult. However, we must realize making time to learn is foundational to humbly regarding others as more important than we are (Phil. 2:3). If we believe that’s the case, we’ll take advantage of every bit of wisdom needed to serve them well.

Valuing others also means valuing the insights of those doing the same or similar work. It readily admits “I don’t have all of the answers” and freely seeks out those who may have wisdom to share. As Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” Thus, while making time to listen to wise counsel is a spiritual discipline that requires time and energy, in the end it will pay big dividends. 

It’s also important to schedule learning ahead of time. That may mean blocking off a few days for strategic planning once a year and a morning every month for research. At a minimum, be intentional about learning from others every quarter.

2)    Lay a Solid Theoretical Foundation.

When wading through a sea of information based on others’ experience, you need a way to sift the wheat from the chaff. Start by familiarizing yourself with important biblical passages that deal with compassion, mercy, justice, and charity. Isaiah 58, Matthew 25, and 1 Timothy 5 are good places to start. Reinforce that with good books that articulate God’s story of change like When Helping Hurts and Becoming Whole. Round that out with resources from other disciplines like psychology, economics, business, and sociology. Check out this library of book synopses and add some to your reading list.

3)    Learn What Similar Ministries are Doing.

None of our ministries are truly independent of each other. We’re all “franchises” of God’s mission and should freely share what we’ve learned with other “franchisees” in hopes they will do the same. 

Every time you want to start something new ask, “Who else is doing this?” While it can be challenging to find ministries doing it right, your theoretical foundation will help identify them. Because of how important we think sharing wisdom is, we’ve assembled extensive resources to help in your search. One such resource is our database of ministry features. Many leaders in that database are happy to take a call or let you tour their facility to learn how they operate.

Conferences are a great place to uncover best practices for specific ministry models like rescue missions, community development, or pregnancy resource centers. If you’re interested in effective service to the materially poor in the U.S., you can take advantage of our national conference for effective charity.

4)    Adapt Best Practices to Your Situation.

Culture, demographics, and resources vary, so every model should be adapted to your setting. In most regions, it’s possible to find ministries working in a similar context, which will make adapting their model easier. 

In the U.S., models like awards for growth programs, transitional housing, entrepreneur kids clubs, and work shuttles have been successfully adapted by numerous organizations. Refined out-of-the box programs like Faith and Finances will also enable you to run an excellent class from day one. In other words, innovation builds on innovation. 

How can you tell if a transplanted program is working? Our members have found intentionally measuring outcomes is the quickest way to discover what’s effective.

5)    Share What You’ve Learned.

It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). As you innovate, you’ll have plenty to share with leaders new to their ministries. That might involve having lunch with a new leader, speaking at a ministerial alliance meeting, or being quick to forward copies of operational documents. 

You may think lessons you’ve learned aren’t that special or won’t be helpful to others. That’s why it’s important to remember, perfection is the enemy of progress. If your model is good enough for you, someone else can learn from it. While it’s wise to restrict third parties from using your name (i.e. logos and phrases that would cause confusion about whether another ministry is operating under your management), you should feel free to release ideas with an open hand. In doing so, you’ll share in the growth of the Kingdom.

At the True Charity Network, we believe so strongly in these ideas that we’ve assembled a robust platform of resources to help you maximize your potential. In partnership with members who have learned from their mistakes, we’ve put together step-by-step guides for innovative models like food co-ops, affordable Christmas markets, and earn-it projects. In addition, digital toolkits are available to help with case management, outcomes measurement, and trauma-informed care. In other words, we are committed to serving you as a clearinghouse for ideas and effective models by “asset mapping” the effective charity movement.

 

 

This article is just the tip of the iceberg for practical resources available through the True Charity Network. Check out all the ways it can help you learn, connect, and influence here.

Already a member? Get access to all of your benefits through the member portal.

 

The Liberty to Serve: Five Benefits an Attorney Can Provide

Nathan Mayo
Vice President of Operations & Programs
Read more from Nathan

 

 

Listen to this article:


Before we dive in, I would like to thank our Business Partner, Alliance Defending Freedom, for their valuable insights and research in support of this article. 

Ministry leaders spend most of their waking hours building a better future. While growing your ministry and serving your clients consumes most of your effort, it’s important to protect what you’ve built with a sturdy bulwark of legal risk mitigation.

Both churches and faith-based nonprofits can find themselves running afoul of laws or recent court interpretations of which they were completely unaware. On the other hand, general knowledge of legal risk can often paralyze a ministry from a prudent exercise of its rights because leaders aren’t sure of the parameters of those rights.

That’s why we want our members to be aware of the benefits of working with the Alliance Defending Freedom Church and Ministry Network. Indeed, True Charity has benefited greatly from our association with them. We believe they can be a valuable ally for you, too. Here are five benefits that partnering with them or a similar attorney can provide:

‍1. Help You Understand Your Rights

While you may have a basic understanding of your rights, you probably don’t know the entire landscape of things that could affect your ministry.

For instance, while the First Amendment recognizes and protects religious freedom, the legal space surrounding it is complicated. An attorney can help clarify any confusion regarding how it affects your ministry. 

Zoning ordinances are another example. Faith-based organizations can’t be treated worse than secular organizations regarding those policies. 

In other words, an attorney will provide knowledgeable, in-depth answers about the law, your rights, and how they relate to your organization’s policies. That will allow you to focus on what matters most: your organization and the people it serves.

‍2. Strengthen Your Governing Documents

These documents will give you a firmer legal footing should you ever face legal challenges. 

They should describe your purpose, your beliefs, and how they influence everything you do. Equally important, your faith-based organization’s operational practices should consistently reflect what’s in those documents. These can include a statement of faith, a Christian code of conduct, employment policies, and more. The Alliance Defending Freedom suggests you evaluate and develop them according to … 

3. Represent You in Court

We hope your ministry never goes to court. But if it happens, an established relationship with an attorney who knows your ministry and has helped you develop policies and practices can place you on much firmer legal ground. Their knowledge and skill could mean the difference between losing some of your rights or continuing to operate according to your beliefs.‍

4. Network On Your Behalf

Just as doctors can’t be experts in every area of medicine, attorneys can’t be experts in every area of law. That means yours may specialize in a few areas relevant to your nonprofit or ministry—like church property disputes or church governance issues—but you may need a referral to someone else who can help with other matters. 

That’s why a well-networked attorney is an important asset. They work with numerous clients, have relationships with people in the court systems, and have ties to former law school classmates.    

Similarly, attorneys are likely to have access to other resources that could benefit your ministry. Do you need more information about tax-exempt status, employment law, or real estate law? Asking your attorney is a great place to start. He or she may have valuable insights or knowledge to share from their years of experience.  ‍

5. Potentially Save You Time and Resources

Litigation isn’t for the faint of heart. It can be unpredictable and time-consuming. Having an attorney by your side will help you avoid liability issues and costly litigation.  

While it is in your best interest to receive legal advice from counsel you trust, it’s important to remember having an attorney won’t prevent a suit against your organization. However, they can help you avoid legal pitfalls you may have encountered otherwise. As mentioned earlier, that will help you focus on what matters most: serving people and spreading the Good News.

‍

Conclusion

If you’re unsure where to seek legal help, Alliance Defending Freedom and their ADF Church and Ministry Alliance is a good place to start. It’s affordable legal membership program will give you access to a legal team dedicated to advocating for the rights of churches and faith-based non-profits across the United States. And because you’re a member of True Charity, they’ll give you an additional 20% off the already heavily discounted annual membership fee.

Since 1994, it has allied with thousands of attorneys nationwide committed to protecting the ideals most important to you–religious freedom, the sanctity of life, freedom of speech, parental rights, and the sanctity of marriage and family– so you can operate with your  God-given right to live and speak the truth. They will be happy to connect you with a like-minded attorney from their network if they believe he or she is right for you.  

To claim your discount visit: True Charity Network – Savings for Network Members.

 

What Cures Can You Offer Those Trapped in the Loneliness and Isolation Epidemic?

SONYA STEARNS
Network Manager
Read more from Sonya

 

Listen to this article:

You’ve heard about it. You’ve seen the reports. Maybe you’ve witnessed it in your social circles. Loneliness and isolation are at epidemic levels and recent data proves it.

The issue is so troubling that U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has sounded the alarm, calling attention to the need for social connection. In fact, his 2023 Report’s subtitle is “The Healing Effects of Social Connections and Community.” It addresses the detriments loneliness has on personal health and offers specific suggestions for a targeted federal response.

However, True Charity believes a local approach yields more fruit. We know the principle of subsidiarity should be implemented first and foremost. That is, cure the ailment by seeking help from those closest to the situation (family, friends, churches, and local nonprofits) – something we call affiliations. 

While all segments of society suffer from loneliness and alienation, one struggles at a much higher rate: those in poverty. Consequently, those devoted to serving the poor should consider new and innovative measures to cure this epidemic.

To start, it’s important to recognize that people in poverty generally have smaller social networks than the public. They are “relationship poor” because many are unemployed or underemployed. Thus, they have fewer opportunities for authentic community found in the workplace.

Data shows they don’t attend church as much as in the past and, therefore, lose a considerable source of social capital. Financial pressures and past decisions can create circumstances that strain family ties and friendships. Multiply that by neighborhoods and communities, and the picture seems hopeless.

But we can offer hope through relationships. Implementing some not-so-hard strategies to rid our neighbors of this scourge is possible.

If you work for or serve a local nonprofit or church, here are some significant ways you can help your neighbors.

 

1. Build programs that encourage interdependence and sincere relationships. 

Evaluate your programs to ensure they promote relationships.

    • Start a mentoring program where both (or all) parties maintain mutual support and respect for each other’s roles. True Charity’s Mentoring Model Action Plan (available to network members) can help. 
    • Train others (or be trained) in relational charitable practices. Our Beyond Volunteering Video Training is a great place to start. 
    • Schedule a monthly potluck dinner with volunteers, staff, and the people you serve—with only fellowship and fun on the agenda.

 

2. Regularly host “front door opportunities” as a significant first step toward building relationships. 

In other words, hosting events and activities is important, but planning and strategic follow-up is the key to real help and life change.

True Charity Network Member “Partners in Hope” (PIH) of Austin, TX, focuses their entire ministry on those in isolation. PIH’s executive director, Matt Peacock, says we should think of events as progressing toward building a relational bridge. “In my experience, these folks do not lack invitations to events and activities. We can create incredible opportunities that could greatly impact people–but don’t rely on the attraction of the activity. Plan as much as possible, then build relationships with those wanting to be there. It takes time and investment to build that bridge.”

    • Station ministry representatives and/or leaders strategically. Make sure they are available to extend the hand of genuine fellowship and learn people’s names and backgrounds.
    • Offer light refreshments at small tables after the service or event to make it natural to meet others.
    • Host a “Longest Night Service” on the winter solstice (also called “Blue Christmas”) for those who have lost a loved one or others struggling with loss. True Charity Network Member, Schweitzer Church of Springfield, MO, has hosted one for years. 
    • Connect individuals to other great programs such as Grief Share, Open Table, Celebrate Recovery, and Ace Overcomers.

 

3. Use “front door” mutual interests to connect volunteers, staff, and/or church members to isolated individuals. 

These might cover sports, cooking, gardening, child-rearing, reading, carpentry, etc. – anything that provides the opportunity for community helpers, staff, and volunteers to regularly meet with and/or serve those in poverty. 

Ideas include: 

    • Monthly game day get-togethers
    • Cooking classes
    • Community beautification days
    • Playground dates for parents
    • Reading books to young children during a “story hour”  
    • Serving widows, the elderly, and the disabled by helping with home maintenance, errands, etc.

 

4. Design a network of businesses and private citizens open to hiring unemployed individuals for full-time employment, ongoing part-time work, or odd tasks. 

Again, Matt Peacock from PIH says providing an introduction isn’t enough. “Giving someone a phone number, email, or website address is rarely helpful. But making a personal introduction has power … [it’s] one of the simplest yet most profound ways we can help.”

In other words, don’t just open a door. Walk through it with individuals by scheduling a coffee date, lunch, or onsite visit with all parties involved. And don’t worry if the job is just a “one-off.” One connection could pave the way for future opportunities. 

 

5. Build relationships with one or two individuals on a deeper level—and in their territory. 

All of us need genuine relationships to navigate life. Commit to building a deeper bond with just one or two people in need. And make sure you enter their world.

    • Have dinner in their home, where everyone contributes to the meal (and the clean-up).
    • Share an activity based on mutual interests (fishing, cooking, pickleball, basketball, nature walks, etc.). Consider learning a new sport or skill together.
    • Meet weekly for coffee or ice cream in their neighborhood.
    • Read a short book, complete a Bible study, or do online training together, meeting at least once a week to discuss your progress.
    • Life Deck is a simple-to-use relationship-building tool that can help you get started in any context.

 

Each of us can offer some type of cure for the isolation epidemic. What help will you give? What hand can you extend? What hope will you offer? No matter what you decide, relationships should be at the center of your care plan.

 

Measuring Impact: Notes from a True Charity Chat

AVERY WEST
Member Engagement Director
Read more from Avery

 

Listen to this article:

 

In November, True Charity Network members from around the country gathered virtually for a casual “True Charity Chat” to brainstorm and share experiences. This quarter’s topic was “Outcomes Workshopping.” 

Nathan Mayo, VP of Programs, highlighted resources in the Outcomes Toolkit and shared best practices he’s learned from helping members implement them. 

Here are four tips from that conversation:

  • Ask, “What am I going to do with this information?”

Ask this before creating documents, incentives, and systems to track data. Otherwise, you may end up with information that’s not useful. 

For example, True Charity used to track Summit attendees’ program changes to guide us in making Summit decisions. Eventually, we realized we were using another measure: attendees’ feedback on topic preferences. We also discovered program changes are extremely hard to track; and we learned our annual “Share Your Success Campaign” is a more streamlined way to capture the data were were looking for. That said, if you believe data you’ve collected is useful and suggests change is needed, go for it! If at some future point it’s no longer valuable, you can always drop it.  

  • Learners’ confidence is a key measure of success.

To illustrate, suppose your organization is committed to teaching people how to change car tires. You’d probably assess their increased knowledge by asking, “What is the first step in changing a tire?” Likewise, if you’re all about helping people prepare for a job interview, you might ask, “Which of the following outfits should you wear?” 

At best, these questions sample only a small amount of the knowledge you shared. A better question is, “How confident do you feel in changing a tire?” or “in choosing an outfit for your interview?” An assessment of confidence levels before and after the class will be a better indicator of the success of the class than whether a single question was answered correctly.

  • Differentiate between outcomes for different groups of people.

Nathan shared that organizations often mistakenly track the same outcomes for different clients. For instance, a shelter might measure how many people go through their case management program and then find a job. However, a job might not be the right next step for elderly or severely disabled individuals. Instead, measuring their sense of hope about life or their social capital would be a better indicator of success. 

  • Keep in touch with your graduates through events, gift cards, and more!

Much of our conversation focused on the challenge of keeping in touch with clients long enough to see if a program made a difference. Nathan encouraged leaders to follow up with a representative sample of clients rather than attempt to track down every one. 

For instance, six months after the completion of training, an organization might speak with every 10th (or 100th) member who went through their car maintenance program. Focusing on individuals from a smaller group also gives you the opportunity to offer a gift card or take that person out to lunch. 

Jim Ott, a Network member in Dubuque, Iowa, shared that previous graduates of their program come back to lead cohorts of new participants. They build relationships and reach out to those members after graduation. He feels a more personal, “How are you doing?” text from a friend leads to greater response than a, “Please fill out this survey” link from their organization. 

The Georgia Center for Opportunity (GCO) hosts post-graduation follow-up events. Graduates are invited to participate in fun, light-hearted professional development and meet with their mentors. This gives the GCO staff an opportunity to check in with them and monitor their progress. 

If you missed this conversation, don’t worry! In our Outcomes Toolkit, Nathan and the True Charity team have compiled a step-by-step guide (complete with video training, documents, and spreadsheets) to help you get started measuring the right kind of outcomes for your organization. 

Join our True Charity Network community to access more Outcomes material and participate in future “True Charity Chats.”

3 Tips for Nonprofits to Boost Their Social Media Presence

ALYSSA GLASGOW
Graphic Design Manager
Read more from Alyssa

 

 

Listen to this article:

Over 90% of Americans actively use social media, making it a powerful tool your organization can use to its advantage–even with a limited marketing budget!

That said, doing it well takes a lot of skill and effort–as evidenced by the number of professionals who do it full-time. Here are a few tips to get started on the right foot:

1.  Identify Goals

This will help direct your strategy and drive content development. Ask, “What do we hope to accomplish: Find and engage donors? Recruit volunteers? Gain community support? Promote services? All of the above?

Using a social media content calendar will help you manage all of that. For instance, you may have a fundraising event one month and no events the next. This will affect what kind of content to schedule–and when to develop it for on-time delivery.

Along those lines, it’s not unusual to have periods of time with a lot of content to post followed by dry spells when there is little or none. However, it is important to continue posting two or three times per week so your audience stays engaged. You can prepare for slower seasons by keeping a library of evergreen content, such as client testimonials, inspirational quotes or verses, that can be used any time of year to fill in these gaps.

2.  Know Your Audience To Avoid Wasting Time and Resources

With limited bandwidth and budget, wisely stewarding your time and resources is important. That means knowing where your audience is–and that means knowing each channel’s niche and audience. Remember: a good social media strategy does not mean you need to be present on every platform.

As an example, LinkedIn provides articles and information to business professionals; Instagram is great for photos and video content; and Facebook is a combination of the two. Instagram and Facebook are also more personal. With that in mind, here are two important things to consider when choosing which to use:

  • Community activity: which platform does most of your community use?
  • What kind of content resonates with them? If you already have a social channel, note what performs well, do more of that, and post it to the appropriate sites.

Let’s look at examples of top-performing posts from True Charity and Network member accounts in the last year:

  • The first is this Facebook post from Durham Rescue Mission, highlighting their fall program graduation. Their audience likes photos of real people and better yet, people they know and recognize. It’s encouraging and their audience enjoys celebrating others’ accomplishments.

  • Next is this Instagram post from Save the Storks which received almost 2,000 likes. The photo itself is heartwarming but the backstory really catches your attention. It’s a tear-jerker but moving and uplifting, too. True, it makes for a longer caption but the audience was willing to look past that to engage in a compelling story.

  • Finally, here is a post from True Charity’s Annual Summit. It was on all our channels but performed best on LinkedIn because it highlighted networking and professional development. And I’m sure our audience enjoyed seeing friendly faces they recognized, maybe even themselves!

 

3.  Be Consistent

It’s essential to maintain a clear and consistent voice, tone, and style–which means your graphic design, visuals, and captions should align and support each other across all posts. That’s why it’s helpful to have one person manage your accounts. Too many cooks make for a messy kitchen.

If no one has the bandwidth for this task, consider an intern. High school or college students, especially those with an interest in marketing, are naturals in the social media world. With guidance and direction from your team, it could be a fantastic learning opportunity for the intern and result in a huge benefit for you.

 

 

This article is just the tip of the iceberg for the practical resources available through the True Charity Network. Check out all of the ways the network can help you learn, connect, and influence here.

Already a member? Access your resources in the member portal.