Raising support for missions can feel like an uphill battle. You’ve prayed, reached out, and done everything you know how to do—but maybe you still find yourself struggling to expand your network or replace lost supporters. The good news? You don’t have to do this alone.
What if, instead of just seeking financial backing, you built a team—a group of people who use their unique gifts to help propel your ministry forward? Fundraising isn’t just about asking for money; it’s about inviting others to invest in the Kingdom alongside you. And the best part? Many of these people are already in your life, waiting for an invitation to be part of something bigger.
In a recent interview with Russell Cooper and Deb Evans from Tailored Fundraising, we explored what makes a successful support team and how missionaries can identify the right people to join them. Their insights revealed that many missionaries already have untapped advocates in their circles; they just need to recognize them and engage them with intentionality.
The Five Roles on the Team provide a framework for building strong, lasting partnerships. When we cultivate these relationships with care, we move from feeling stuck and isolated to feeling supported and empowered.
These aren’t just theoretical roles; they are real people who are already in our circles, ready to help us move forward if we engage them in the right way.
Do you have these people on your team yet?
1. The Cheerleader: Encouraging and Spreading the Word
The Cheerleader is the person who is genuinely excited about what God is doing through your ministry. They share your updates, talk about you to others, and naturally spread enthusiasm. This might be the person who regularly comments on your social media posts, replies to your newsletters with encouragement, or brings up your ministry in conversations with friends. Cheerleaders may not be the biggest financial givers, but their influence is powerful because they help expand your reach and validate your mission.
Ask yourself: Who in my life is already talking about my ministry with passion? How can I equip them to share even more?
2. The Host: Opening Doors for Connection
The Host is someone who loves hospitality and creating spaces for people to connect. They might invite you to speak at a small group, organize a dinner where you can share your vision, or host a Zoom call for friends who might want to partner with you. Hosts are invaluable because they create environments where you can meet new potential supporters in a warm, relational setting.
Action step: Think about who in your network has the gift of hospitality. Could they host a small gathering for you?
3. The Influencer: Leveraging Their Platform for Greater Impact
The Influencer is a key leader who has credibility and a broad network of people who trust them. This could be a pastor, a business leader, or someone respected in your church or community. When an Influencer endorses you, it opens doors you might not have been able to access on your own. Their personal recommendation carries weight and can lead to new financial partners.
Reflection: Who in my network has influence? Have I invited them to share about my ministry with others?
4. The Networker: Making Strategic Introductions
The Networker is the person who “knows everyone.” They are constantly introducing people and making connections. They don’t just think about who they know—they actively facilitate introductions, making it easy for you to expand your network. A Networker might say, “I know three people who would love to hear about what you’re doing. Let me connect you!”
Take action: Identify someone in your network who loves connecting people. Could they introduce you to three potential new partners?
5. The Returning Missionary: Passing the Baton
One often overlooked role is the Returning Missionary—someone who has recently come off the field and still has an engaged support network. These missionaries often want to see their partners continue investing in the Kingdom but may not have an active mission to support anymore. If approached with sensitivity, they may be willing to introduce you to their existing supporters who are still passionate about missions.
Key consideration: Do I know a missionary who has recently transitioned off the field? How might I approach them with care and respect to explore potential connections?
How to Build Your Team
Now that you know the five essential roles, how do you find these people in your life? Here are some practical steps:
- Make a List – Write down names of people who might fit each role. Who is already advocating for you? Who might be willing to help if you simply asked?
- Reach Out with Purpose – Be intentional in your communication. Instead of a generic request for support, invite them into a specific role that aligns with their strengths.
- Equip Your Advocates – Provide tools like email templates, social media posts, or talking points so they can easily share about your mission.
- Follow Up and Express Gratitude – Keep them updated on how their support is making a difference. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in keeping your team engaged.
Fundraising is Ministry
Fundraising is not just about money—it’s about inviting people into Kingdom work. When we shift our mindset from “Who can support me?” to “Who can I bless with the opportunity to be part of this mission?” everything changes.
God has already placed the right people in our lives. It’s time to recognize them, invite them into partnership, and step into a season of abundance. Let’s build our teams intentionally and watch God provide in ways we never imagined.
Who on your team fits these roles? Who might you invite into one of these roles today?
If you’d like to learn more about building your team and refining your strategy, consider scheduling a free assessment with Tailored Fundraising. Their team has helped thousands of missionaries reach their financial goals, and they’d love to support you on your journey.
Let’s step forward in faith, knowing that God has already provided. We simply need to ask.
Watch the full interview with Russell and Deb here.
