LEADINGtheJOURNEY
An E-newsletter on EXCELLENCE in Leadership
Fundraising
"Finding adequate funds for programs and activities on a school campus is a constant challenge. Fund raising can be separated into two categories: development program and organizations/activities.”
—Excerpt from the 2024 Principal’s Handbook page 41
This theme falls under "Fund Raising" on p. 41 of the Principal's Handbook
March 2026 | Volume 14, No. 7
Previous Issues
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Fundraising as
Ministry
Maria E. Thomas
Superintendent of Schools, Greater New York Conference
Fundraising in our school is more than a means of generating financial support, it is an opportunity to reflect the character of Christ, to strengthen our community, and to support the mission of Christian education. As a Seventh-day Adventist school, we believe that all we do should point back to God and be guided by principles of integrity, stewardship, and service.
Before any fundraising activity is planned, we must first seek God’s guidance in prayer and ensure that the purpose aligns with our school’s mission: to lead students to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ while providing a well-rounded, Christ-centered education. Fundraisers should not simply focus on raising funds, but on supporting meaningful initiatives that nurture spiritual growth, academic excellence, and service to others.
All fundraising activities must receive prior approval through the appropriate administrative process. This helps ensure that each effort is thoughtfully planned, aligned with school values, and coordinated in a way that supports the overall vision of the school. It also allows us to be good stewards of the opportunities and resources God has entrusted to us.
As we plan and implement fundraisers, we are reminded of the biblical principle of stewardship. Everything we have ultimately belongs to God, and we are called to manage resources wisely and faithfully. This includes how funds are raised, handled, and reported. Accurate record-keeping, transparency, and accountability are essential and reflect our commitment to honoring God in all things.
Communication is another important aspect of successful fundraising. Those leading fundraisers should clearly and respectfully communicate the purpose of the activity, how the funds will be used, and what is expected of participants. When families and students understand how their contributions support ministry and mission, they are more likely to engage with a willing and cheerful heart. As Scripture reminds us,
Fundraisers should not simply focus on raising funds, but on supporting meaningful initiatives that nurture spiritual growth, academic excellence, and service to others.
“God loves a cheerful giver”
(2 Corinthians 9:7).
Fundraising should always reflect the spirit of Christ, marked by kindness, fairness, and respect for others. We must be mindful not to place pressure on families or create any sense of obligation. Participation should always be voluntary, and every family should feel valued and appreciated, regardless of their ability to contribute. Our goal is unity, not burden.
In addition, we must ensure that all fundraising efforts uphold the values of our Christian witness. Activities should be appropriate, wholesome, and reflective of the character we seek to develop in our students. The way we raise funds is just as important as the funds themselves. Our actions should consistently reflect integrity, honesty, and Christlike behavior.
Principals must maintain the highest ethical standards. All funds must be handled with accuracy, documented thoroughly, and reported promptly. Donors should always know how their contributions are being used.
Transparency builds confidence. Confidence builds generosity.
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
C. S. Lewis
Collaboration is also an important part of fundraising in a Christian school community. When students, families, and staff come together with a shared purpose, we not only meet financial goals but also build stronger relationships and a deeper sense of fellowship. Fundraisers can serve as opportunities to practice teamwork, leadership, and service, core values that are central to our faith.
Engage parents, pastors, alumni, church members, and community partners. Invite them to see themselves as co-laborers in the mission of Adventist education. Students should participate in ways that are safe, age appropriate, and meaningful. Fundraising can teach responsibility, gratitude, and service – core values of Christian education. The involvement of students should always uplift, never exploit.
“Many hands make light work.”
John Heywood
Equity and inclusivity must always be considered. Our fundraising efforts should be accessible and respectful to all members of our community. We are called to love and serve one another, and that includes being mindful of different circumstances and ensuring that no one feels excluded or marginalized.
At the conclusion of each fundraiser, proper procedures must be followed to ensure accountability. All funds should be submitted in a timely manner, and a clear report should be provided. It is also important to take time to reflect on the experience. What did we learn? How did we see God at work? In what ways can we improve? Reflection allows us to grow and better serve in future efforts.
Above all, fundraising in our school is an extension of our mission to serve God and others. When done with prayer, purpose, and integrity, it becomes more than a financial activity, it becomes a ministry. Through our efforts, may we continue to honor God, support our students, and build a community that reflects His love.
MISSION: STRENGTHENING ADVENTIST EDUCATION ONE LEADER AT A TIME
