Created in 2016, the Saint Francis Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of Saint Francis Ministries, which means the fine folks working at the Foundation specialize in something called “development.”
That’s a word nonprofits often use to describe “fundraising.” We like the term because development is all about … well, developing something – namely, long-term, mutually-beneficial relationships.
Let’s face it, we’d all like to change the world. But we can’t all do the frontline work. We have other responsibilities and areas of expertise. Yet, we can still make a significant impact on the lives of those who need help.
That’s why development plays such an important role. It’s about building relationships with foundations, grantors, corporate and community partners, and individual donors.
It focuses on the long-term goal of forging friendships that will sustain the work of vital programs and services that Saint Francis provides. Those friendships are created through shared values, such as the desire to ensure the safety, wholeness, and well-being of children and families.
In other words, it’s about organizations and people who have a place in their heart for those most in need of healing and hope.
Development offers the opportunity for all of us to contribute toward something meaningful and important. It enables us to go where our heart leads us, provided we have the space to share.
What about you?
Is there room in your heart for those most in need? Is there room in your heart for friendship? For partnership?
If so, you can do something about it. Start here.
And, welcome, friend.
