Trusts and foundations can be an excellent source of income for smaller organisations, but the process of applying for funding can be both time consuming and intimidating. There are high quality training courses and useful reosurces available from many local and national organistaions such as the Directory of Social Change,…
Many churches I work with are considering a new or improved building. I have written elsewhere about the more practical things to consider when designing or costing such a project, but here I want to share a few thoughts about some of the more unexpected things to look out for…
So you have this idea for a project or service that your church or charity could offer. A few things to consider before you rush into the delivery phase: Have you established the need? Do you know that there is a demand for what you are offering? Have you spoken…
I am sure I am not alone in recognising that sinking feeling when the inbox, paper mountain and flashing answer phone together threaten to overwhelm us with the sheer volume of things that we feel we have to get done. There is much that could be written about how to prevent this…
Does your organisation have a plan? Most do, however they describe it. If that is you, hopefully it is not just one that sits on the shelf, mentioned only in annual reports or grant applications, but it is also something that informs what you do and where you put your resources…
I have just finished a phone call with a potential donor. No deal was done and no funding promised. In fact, we agreed that the best option would be to talk again in a few months, at which point we may get as far as me submitting an outline application. …
Whether they are joining as a new trustee / church council member, volunteer or supporter, most organisations want to welcome new people well, but it does not always happen. Here are some ideas on ways that might help smaller organisations to do it better.
We have just received the first one of the year; the Christmas card that has, as a PS, ‘hope to see you in 2017′. Some people have been sending us a card like this, with virtually the same message in it for many years (with different dates), but somehow that…
I am working with two community-based groups at the moment, both of whom need, for the first time in their history, to raise significant sums of money. This can be intimidating and nerve wracking, but it can also be fun! In both cases, their funding need is not urgent, which does…
How do you respond to the prospect of a new project in your church or small charity? Running a project well, particularly in smaller organisations without the backing of specialist project managers or other resources can be a challenge. There are books and ‘how to’ guides in abundance but they…
