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SUPPORT LETTERS

Writing a support letter is one of the easiest ways to get the word out about your trip. By sending out a letter to family, friends, church members and others, you are giving them the opportunity to invest in your life both spiritually and financially.

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(If you are looking for different ideas for mission trip fundraising, check out this page!)

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POTENTIAL SUPPORTERS:

Using the list below, begin brainstorming a list of about 50-100 people to whom you could potentially send letters. Try your best not to pre-qualify people (i.e., I doubt they'll give or They're wealthy, you know they'll give).

  • Family

  • Friends

  • Coworkers

  • Employers

  • Neighbors

  • Church members

  • Classmates

 

OUTLINE FOR SUPPORT LETTER:

 

As you begin writing your letter, make sure you clearly and concisely explain the purpose of the letter. Keep some of the following guidelines in mind.

  • Identify yourself and bring the reader up to date with what is going on in your life

    • Where you are living

    • What school you attend

    • What year you are in school

  • State the purpose of the trip

    • Include the location to which God has called you to serve

    • Share information about the partners and their ministry

  • Explain your personal vision for the trip

    • How God led you to be involved

    • What you will be doing

    • What you expect to learn from your experience

  • Describe your specific needs

    • Ask them to join you in prayer

    • Explain the financial support needed

    • What you expect to learn from your experience

  • Clearly explain how they can donate

    • Mail a check to Servant Life P.O. Box 36307 Birmingham, AL 35236

    • Make an  online donation

    • Make a donation through another online payment method such as PayPal

    • Include a deadline for giving

  • Share your appreciation for their time and support

 

HELPFUL HINTS:

 

  • Give an idea as to the size of gifts they can give - $25, $50, $100, etc.

  • Provide disclaimer such as any gift amount will be helpful

  • Gifts of $50 or more will qualify as a tax-deductible gift and should be made out to Servant Life. Be sure that your name is not on the check anywhere in order for the donation to be tax-deductible. Attach a note that states your name with your letter, so it can be mailed in with their check.

  • As you receive donations, do not forget to send a personal, handwritten thank you note to each supporter.

  • Include Bible verses that may have impacted your spiritual walk and/or show the importance of doing missions.

  • Send out postcards, featuring a photograph of you or the country, to supporters that give specific ways to be praying for your trip and allow them to stay connected to your ministry.

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