Request For Proposals

By Erin West
Press release photo
We are often surprised when a church leader sends out a request for proposal for directing a capital campaign. Usually, there is little information to delineate what the real ministry and financial needs are for the church. Seldom do they share when they feel they would like to conduct a campaign or what the annual giving is or the total number of households there are at the church.

It is unfortunate when church leaders want to make a decision on which firm to hire based on a ‘boiler-plate’ proposal. Deciding on which firm to partner with is as important as calling a new pastor. It is incredibly important to find the right match.

Our firm has made the decision to only offer a full and detailed Proposal of Service after we have been in discussion with the church leaders. Whether this takes place in the form of an official presentation of services, or a conference call with the appropriate church leaders, there must be dialog and discernment in the approach, expectations and responsibilities.

In our experience, it is important to speak with other church leaders, whether in your community or in your denomination, and ask which stewardship firms others recommend. Investigate the firm’s website and view testimonials and record of achievement of the firm. Then, after an introductory discussion with the firm, request a presentation. This presentation should be at no cost or obligation. Only after a presentation, whether it is a conference call or a personal presentation at the church, will you know if the chemistry is right to request a written Proposal of Service.