CTindex - Christian Today UK Interactive Catalogue
Ministries

Cross Pollinate: Fundraising with a heart

A novel new Christian initiative is hoping to take fundraising from the awkward and impersonal to intimate and involved.

by Maria Mackay
Posted: Friday, July 11, 2008, 16:10 (BST)
Font Scale:A A A

"We wanted to give people the time to reflect and hear from God, because it's about more than money. It's about the talents, experience and expertise that we can give as well."

Romance Academy, an abstinence-based relationships programme for teenagers, said the £22,000 in pledges they attracted during the evening would help roll out the academy across the UK and internationally.

Rachel Gardner, Romance Academy's Creative Director, welcomed the Cross Pollinate initiative.

"When you are a new charity and it's something you passionately believe in, it's not just about making ends meet. It's about wanting people to catch your vision," she shared.

"No charity wants to be supported by a cold cheque. Even though they need money, they want people to catch what their heart is.

"That's what this is about. People gave because they caught what it is that we are trying to do.

"It's so great that the body of Christ will not only cash a cheque but also catch the fire."

Bird and Wilkins are looking to hold even more Cross Pollinates in the future. The next event is already planned for Thursday 13 November at Barclays Wealth, when a fresh mix of charities will have the opportunity to showcase their projects.

Mike Royal of The Lighthouse Group, a Christian charity working to reintegrate excluded school pupils into the education system, is equally enthusiastic about Cross Pollinate.

"Sometimes the whole grant-making procedure, both for the donors and the charities, can be a little bit bland, almost white wall-ish, and you don't really see what goes on behind the scenes. But this is really organic," he says.

"It's really great to bring both those who are delivering on the ground and those who can support financially together in the same room. The energy here - fantastic."

On the web: www.crosspollinate.co.uk



continue to read > 1 | 2
Copyright © 2008 Christian Today. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Have your say on this article
Christian Today Twitter
Google Advertisement
Externally generated - Report offensive links here
World Headline
Church groups respond as Congo conflict deepens

Church groups respond as Congo conflict deepens

Church-related aid agencies are assisting civilians displaced by the eastern Congo conflict as the UN special envoy...
Sponsored Features
Give a disadvantaged young person a brighter future this Christmas. Order books for all ages commending the free and sovereign grace of Almighty God.
01582 765448 For holidays and retreats in the Scottish borders. Whitchester Christian Guest House 01450 377 477 Friendly printing company for churches, charities and businesses nationwide!
Sanct Maria Abbey, NUNRAW
Cistercian Monastery and Guest House
Bookings: 01620 830 228
Email: nunraw.abbot@yahoo.co.uk
Google Advertisement
Externally generated - Report offensive links here

Christmas Gift Box

more gifts >