Development

Development and fund-raising programs sponsored by the diocese, parishes, schools, and other church-related organizations should complement effective stewardship programs. No development activity should conflict with stewardship efforts in the diocese or parish. Instead, as a result of careful planning, there will be new opportunities for people to practice good stewardship by participating in the mission and ministries of their Church.

Christ and Christian mission centered

The basic elements of a parish or diocesan development program are:

• A spiritually based plan with a mission statement, specific goals and objectives, and priorities for funding;
• A communications program that specifies how the diocese, parish, school, or agency will regular communicate its mission, goals, and funding needs to various internal and external publics; and
• A fund-raising program based on stewardship and development principles that outlines how the diocese, parish, school, or agency will identify prospective donors, build strong relationships, and solicit gifts for current programs, capital needs, and endowments. To be successful, each of these three elements must be carefully coordinated with stewardship education efforts and other fund-raising activities (e.g., annual appeals or capital campaigns) at the diocesan and parish levels.

What are some methods used in development?

Annual Giving – Encouraging annual commitments of time, talent, and treasure to the parish, diocese, school, and other church-rated organizations.

Capital Campaigns – A capital campaign is a carefully planned, well-organized needs-based program to raise a substantial amount of money within a specific time frame.

Planned Giving – The term “planned giving” is now commonly used to describe commitments made by donors to transfer capital assets.

Development Education/Resources/Materials

• The Center on Philanthropy
• International Catholic Stewardship Council

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©2008 Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana