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One of the most interesting things we encounter in capital campaigns isn't always what donors say. Sometimes, it's what they never get the opportunity to say.
Over the years, we have heard leaders express concerns about asking certain people or particular groups to participate in a campaign.
They probably won't give. They don't have the money. The economy is difficult. They aren't connected enough. We shouldn't ask them.
The concern is understandable. Leaders know their communities well, and they want to be respectful of people's time, circumstances, and resources.
But there is an important distinction between assuming someone won't participate and giving them the opportunity to decide for themselves.
We shouldn't say ‘no’ for someone else.
Remember, a capital campaign is not simply a fundraising exercise. It is an invitation to participate in the mission of the Church. And sometimes the people we least expect to respond are the ones who surprise us!
One person may not be able to make a significant gift. Another may not have time right now to serve on a volunteer committee. Still another may choose not to participate at all. And that's okay. They can always say no.
But they may also say YES!
They may have a connection to the mission that leadership didn't realize. They may have been waiting for an opportunity to step forward. Their circumstances may have changed, and now they have more time or resources. They may not be able to make the largest gift, but they may be deeply committed to the vision and want to be part of making it happen.
And sometimes, simply being invited affirms the message that:
You are part of this. Your participation matters. There is a place for you in the future we are building together.
This is particularly important when the vision extends beyond the boundaries of a single parish or institution. When a project has the potential to benefit the broader Catholic community, it may be worth giving that broader community an opportunity to hear the vision and determine whether they want to be a part of it.
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