Engaging Your Members

Member ambassadors

We start by working with your leadership to identify champions within your organization. These are not only the people who will help us implement the program, they’re (usually) the first to go through the program itself. These early-adopters are essential in establishing the credibility of the program, demonstrating its benefits and building a culture of planned giving within your ministry. We also encourage ministries to ask for permission to share ambassadors’ experiences and success stories.

Gift planning seminars

When it comes to getting the word out and generating excitement about the program, we’ve found gift planning seminars are incredibly effective. Whether it’s between worship services, at the home of a supporter or in a meeting space on a weekday evening, your dedicated gift planning counselor will host these seminars free-of-charge. And while COVID-19 is limiting in-person gatherings, we’re conducting many seminars virtually. 

At the seminars, which usually last about an hour, your counselor will provide an overview of what gift planning is, the biblical basis for it, its benefits and what the process will be like for individuals who decide to begin working on a plan. 

Marketing support

The LCMS Foundation will help you understand the full benefits of your gift planning program and assist you in communicating and articulating those benefits to your members or supporters. We’ll supply you with a variety of compelling, easy-to-adapt marketing templates and materials.