I never thought fundraising would be this difficult, or that I would learn so much or change because of it.
So far I’ve sent out letters, partnered with Go Rings, done several markets, sold shirts, hosted a game night, and done a hike-a-thon. Soon I’ll be speaking at a rotary and a Mason’s meeting. I’m still reaching out to people and have a few other churches in mind to try to speak with. I’ve got to be honest, with all that I thought I’d be further along than I am. That has definitely been distracting.
BUT! Fundraising even to the point I am now has taught me a big lesson in gratitude. People are forever saying, “Oh, I dont have much, but…” when they give what they think is a small donation. I think this is really one of the things that keeps people from even considering contributing financially to my journey. They think that they have to give $100 or more! And while I’m so grateful for those larger gifts, I have really grown to be equally as thrilled about the “small” ones. They are also given out of what people have and that is just as beautiful, meaningful, and humbling as a $1,000 contribution!
When I did my first hike at Colt Creek, I met a couple who were walking their dogs. We struck up a conversation and I told them about my hike-a-thon and what I was raising funds for. The man reached into his wallet and gave me the last of his cash – five $1 bills. I was so happy! He quickly said, “It’s not much.” To which I replied, “Not at all! It’s five dollars more than I had before!” And it’s so true.
Every time someone feels led to give to my trip, it means that they’re led to invest in me and, more than that, the call that God has placed on my life. I’m so grateful! I’m not sitting here thinking “this person only gave three dollars”, any donation is a blessing to me! Especially as I am just $1,300 away from my second goal with only seven days left to raise it. If everyone who believes that God can do amazing things through his faithful followers prayed over this trip and gave as they felt led, I think that goal would even be exceeded – because God CAN and WILL do amazing things.
Thank you all so much for all the ways you’ve helped me so far. Please, if you haven’t, be sure to subscribe to this blog. And let me know if you would like to be part of my prayer email! Some requests may be too sensitive or personal to put on this public blog.
