Fundraising Lessons from a National Director

Q & A with Sess Serge, National Director Navigators Cote d’ Ivoire

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When God called you to ministry, how did you feel about fundraising?

How my ministry would be funded was a major concern. I knew it could be very tough. At that time, I did not receive a specific training on fundraising. But deep inside, I knew that God was capable of providing the resources needed for His work. 

What are fundraising mistakes you made in the past?

Thinking that my ministry is not a real job worthy of support. One of my best friends I met with to share about my ministry told me: ‘‘You’ve got an education, why don’t you get a real job?”

Second, asking myself, “Who will give to me?” instead of “Who needs to hear my story?”

Third, pre-judging how people will react when I appeal to them. Sometimes I expected a ‘‘NO,’’ but I was wrong.

How do you deal with fears in funding today?

I continue to deal with some fears: 

How will people see me? 

Will they reject me? 

Will my current donors keep supporting? 

Over the years, God helps me focus on Him in funding. It is not about me. It is about Him. 

Also, learning to look to God as the Source. One key verse has been 1 Chronicles 29:14b: ‘‘…For all things come from You, and from Your hand we have given You.’’

What caused you to seek 100% (rather than 60-70%) of your official budget?

I used to see low income as normal and even showing “contentment.” I told myself, ‘‘God is limiting me to keep me wise.’’ It has taken time to learn that God is capable of fully resourcing my budget so I can accomplish what He puts into my heart. And that I have the responsibility of seeking those resources. 

Many mission-workers say, “Face-to-face funding won’t work in my culture.” What has been your experience?

Face-to-face appeals have the advantage of clearly inviting and challenging the person. No one has rejected the approach itself. People appreciate the fact that they have time to pray about it and get back. Some people have asked me, ‘‘How much could we give?’’ 

When you become discouraged about fundraising, what helps you get back on track?

Remembering that I have my part to play is helpful. Being underfunded itself gives a push, but that alone is not enough. Being helped by someone who knows about biblical fundraising has been of great encouragement. I have a mentor with whom I meet every two months to coach me in funding.  

What are a couple things you do for donor ministry?

I often send e-mails to donors with news of our ministry. Sometimes, I phone or send text messages. I also like to visit into their homes. For some we go as a family to visit. If possible, we join our donors in important events for them (new baby, loss…).

What have you learned about asking for support?

To see asking as inviting people to join my support team for the ministry. I have grown progressively in understanding that. And I realize it is not begging. 

This is giving the privilege to someone to partner with God in what He is doing on earth. And I know that beautiful promises are attached to this act of generosity. 

How does Marie-Josee work with you in fundraising?

My wife Marie-Josee has been a General Practitioner doctor and is working currently in a government’s lady’s school. She has still been supportive in fundraising. We both understand that all resource belongs to God.

She has been with me in a few appointments. We pray for donors together. Sometimes she calls some of them, especially the wives. Her support has been crucial.

What is a favorite Scripture you turn to in FR?

I particularly love Luke 8.1-3: ‘‘The Twelve were with Him and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and sicknesses: Mary who was called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who were contributing to their support out of their private means.’’

This passage keeps reminding me of the humbling way Jesus our Lord has been supported in His ministry.

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Since 2014, Sess Serge has been the National Director for Navigators of Cote d’ Ivoire. Sess demonstrates a heart to see people meet Christ and walk with Him. He has put together Bible studies to help believers understand what the Bible says about giving. He raises his own financial support and helps his countrymen staff as well. Sess and his wife Marie-Josee live in Abidjan and have a son.