Klote’s method really works, not only as a fundraising protocol but also as faith formation. Working with our Klote Consultant has been an enjoyable adventure for vestry, campaign committee and visitors, as well as for parish staff.
Ideally, to be truly successful, a fundraising campaign is an enthusiastic, encouraging, and up-building experience for all involved. Our Consultant continually returned us to these most satisfactory by-products of a well run campaign. He is skilled at framing the endeavor and redirecting the tone as needed.
When leadership were hesitant and balked at some of the key details of the Klote method, our Consultant was gracefully persuasive regarding the reasons for sticking to best practices. When vestry’s engagement of a consultant drew fire from a tiny but vocal minority, he skillfully faded into the background. When his up front expertise would enhance effectiveness in meetings and visits, he moved easily into a more prominent role.
Our Klote Consultant steadfastly provided the right balance between support for and expectations of volunteer leadership. He is personable and has a fine sense of humor, with a boundless supply of energy. He appreciates fundraising as a spiritual exercise, made explicit in a religious context. His discernment of the dynamic interrelationship of grace, gratitude, and generosity is quite keen.
St. Bede's Church
Menlo Park, California
703-399-0518
info@jdklote.com 



Carmel Lutheran Church kicked off its ‘Hearts Compelled To Share’ capital campaign in record style. As of January 25th just 73 families of the more than 900 in the church had already committed $3.75 million dollars. That total represents not only the best kickoff to a campaign at CLC, it also represents the best campaign in total even though only 8% of the congregation has pledged so far.
The previous best campaign was just four years ago when CLC collected a total of about $3 million in pledges from over 425 donors.
"Jim Klote, president of James D. Klote and Associates, a capital stewardship consulting firm based in Fall Church, VA, appears on the big screen during his "All Things New" presentation at this year's Annual Conference session. Klote and Associates will conduct free stewardship education workshops for churches in all 18 districts of the conference this fall.
Participants listen attentively during the church stewardship workshop at Wright's Chapel UMC.The Virginia Conference sponsored series of stewardship workshops in each district is winding down, with two more district gatherings remaining in November.
