The Rev. Richard McKeon

Knowing that we would have to have a Capital Campaign, the first in our history as a parish, did nothing to alleviate the initial anxiety and fear that might have caused us to postpone the inevitable, for as long as possible.  That is until we met with Jim Klote and he laid out in simple, common sense language what the plan for our campaign would be.  We had agreed that we would monitor our emotional temperature as a planning committee and vestry, and we unanimously agreed that we felt calmer and more confident each time Jim spoke to us.

 

One of the clear benefits of the Klote method is an onsite presence for several months, and we were very fortunate to have an assigned campaign director.  Using the Klote method, he took us through the step by step process with a calm professionalism that reassured and energized us as a congregation.

 

When it came time for implementing some of the details of the campaign, the director and Jim Klote were very understanding and patient as we came to terms with how our parish might tailor some of the steps to our own needs.  Again, we were supported while at the same time challenged and the result was a campaign that has been very successful to raising not just the funds needed for our renovation of the church, but the an awareness of what we are capable of, as a community of faith.

 

The director was more than just a consultant.  He became an important member of our community and his leadership and understanding were extremely helpful.   True to the insight of Jim and the director, our annual stewardship campaign was also strengthened by the Capital Campaign process and we could not be happier with the result.

 

Knowing that we can do this, with the guidance and assistance of Jim Klote & Associates, has been an experience of not just fundraising but of renewal and revitalization for all of us here at Messiah.