2025 Holiday Giving Report by Fellowship Development Americans say generosity matters more than ever — but most would protect dining out before donations. That contradiction defines the 2025 holiday giving season. Our national survey finds that while 61% of Americans believe charitable giving feels more important during times of hardship, only 23% would protect charitable donations above other expenses. The instinct to help hasn’t vanished, but it’s competing with survival. According to national data, nearly two-thirds of Americans now live paycheck to paycheck, and household debt is at a record high. At Fellowship Development, we work with ministries and nonprofits...
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By Brendan Manson / President of Fellowship Development It’s the same for nearly every faith community: Generosity keeps the lights on, the doors open and the mission alive. Faith-based fundraising is about so much more than dollars and cents – it’s about building a culture of stewardship where giving flows out of faith and gratitude for all God has given us. Unlike secular nonprofits, churches, ministries and other faith-driven organizations fundraise with a unique perspective. The cause is a calling, not just another program or project (though those can be worthy causes, too!). Every campaign, whether it’s for a capital…
By Brendan Manson / President of Fellowship Development Sometimes a congregation experiences an enormous financial need that exceeds the typical administrative costs that are covered through weekly offertory. That could include constructing a new church building, renovating campus or retiring debt. In that situation, it may be necessary for a church to embark on a capital campaign to fundraise. But extraordinary fundraising requires strategies that resonate with the congregation. Without expert support, a church may fall into common challenges and mistakes that prove to be costly and fail to support fulfillment of the needs of the church. Throughout our work…
A Christian capital campaign, particularly for a church or school, is best rooted in the biblical principles of stewardship, generosity and community support. Scripture provides numerous examples of faith-based giving and planning, offering a strong foundation for modern fundraising efforts in a Christian capital campaign. God as the Provider “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 A central tenet of Christian belief focuses on God as the source of all creation. Biblical text emphasizes that all resources ultimately come from God, and believers are called to trust…
As Christmas approaches, Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ—the ultimate gift of love and salvation. This sacred season is not only a time for reflection, but also a powerful call to live out faith through generosity. For Christian nonprofits, Christmas offers a unique opportunity to inspire year-end giving and rally support for missions that bring hope and healing to the world. Why Christmas inspires generosity “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold,…
