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.