Giving in the 21st Century: Why On-line Donations are a Must-Have for Churches
Giving in the 21st Century: Why On-line Donations are a Must-Have for Churches
The Changing Landscape of Giving: Why Churches Need to Embrace On-line Donations
The way people give has changed dramatically in recent years. With the rise of technology and the internet, more and more people are turning to on-line donations as a convenient and secure way to support their favorite causes. Churches are no exception to this trend. In fact, churches that fail to embrace on-line giving risk falling behind and missing out on crucial donations.
According to a recent study by Nonprofit Source, on-line giving grew by 12.1% in 2020, with the average gift size increasing by 6.2%. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with on-line giving projected to account for 54% of all donations by 2024. Churches that do not offer on-line giving options risk losing out on a significant portion of their potential donations.
The Benefits of On-line Giving for Churches and Their Congregations
On-line giving offers numerous benefits for both churches and their congregations. For churches, on-line giving provides a convenient and secure way to collect donations, reducing the need for manual record-keeping and minimizing the risk of errors. On-line giving also allows churches to reach a wider audience, as donors can give from anywhere in the world at any time.
For congregations, on-line giving offers a convenient and flexible way to support their church. On-line giving allows donors to set up recurring donations, ensuring a steady stream of income for the church. On-line giving also allows donors to give anonymously, which can be particularly important for those who wish to keep their giving private.
Overcoming Common Concerns: Addressing Security and Privacy in On-line Donations
One of the most common concerns about on-line giving is security. Donors want to know that their personal and financial information is safe when they give on-line. Fortunately, there are several steps churches can take to ensure the security of on-line donations.
First, churches should choose a reputable on-line giving platform that uses encryption and other security measures to protect donor information. Second, churches should clearly communicate their security policies and procedures to donors, reassuring them that their information is safe. Finally, churches should regularly review and update their security measures to stay ahead of potential threats.
How to Implement On-line Giving in Your Church: Tips and Best Practices for Success
Implementing on-line giving in your church can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and successful process. Here are some tips and best practices to help you get started:
1. Choose the right on-line giving platform: Look for a platform that is easy to use, secure, and offers the features you need, such as recurring giving and mobile compatibility. We recommend you take a good look at Planning Center.
2. Communicate clearly with your congregation: Let your congregation know about your new on-line giving option and explain how it works. Be sure to address any concerns they may have about security and privacy.
3. Make it easy to give: Make sure your on-line giving option is prominently displayed on your website and social media pages. Consider offering multiple giving options, such as text-to-give or QR codes.
4. Follow up with donors: Thank donors for their gifts and keep them informed about how their donations are being used. This will help build trust and encourage continued giving.
On-line giving is a must-have for churches in the 21st century. By embracing on-line giving, churches can reach a wider audience, increase donations, and streamline their record-keeping processes. With the right approach, on-line giving can be a secure and convenient way for congregations to support their church and make a difference in their community.