Part 4: How-To Engage Your Parishioners, Parents, Students, and Donors in Uncertain Times
Parishes, schools, and nonprofit ministries: You've done it again ! You are connecting with your supporters in incredible ways.

In the midst of uncertainty and anxiety, the Catholic Community Foundation wants to support you. We've assembled even more tips on how you all are keeping the lines of communication and engaging with your constituents.

PS : Want to share how you're being innovative at your parish, school, or nonprofit ministry? Email Callie at ckamath@ccfnola.org !
Parishes
Here are three more ways to engage your church community from home:

  1. Invite people into your community. Most Holy Trinity asked those who have been joining them for virtual worship to consider officially becoming part of their parish family by registering online. As we move toward reopening, this will allow the parish to better welcome, know, and serve new parishioners. Mary, Queen of Peace invited parishioners (and potential parishioners!) to join their email list via text, keeping their community welcoming and connected.
  2. Thank your volunteers. St. Clement of Rome is accepting non-perishable food items for our sisters and brothers in need. In this video, Fr. Andrew not only talks about the logistics of food drop off (even providing a drive-thru tutorial!) but also takes the time to thank the volunteers and donors who make this effort possible.
  3. And thank your donors. We've discussed the importance of letting parishioners know how they can support your parishes (check out this example of how to talk about offering in the context of online Mass from Fr. Mike Schmitz and this sample messaging on giving back from CCF and Fr. Dave Caron.) When you receive gifts, it's just as important to give thanks. Our Lady of the Rosary not only thanked its givers for their love and generosity but also included a link for others who want to support the church.

Lagniappe: Click here for the recording and helpful resources from the " Best Practices for Digital Fundraising in Trying Times ” webinar co-presented by CCS Fundraising and #iGiveCatholic!  Plus, click here to download the Vatican's "Strong in the Face of Tribulation" prayer book.

Questions? Contact Director of Stewardship and Parish Services Susie Veters at sveters@ccfnola.org for parish outreach information. Contact ParishSOFT and Data Coordinator Ryan Adams at radams@ccfnola.org for help with the set up and support of ParishSOFT Giving in your parish.
Schools
Here are three more ways to engage your school communities:

  1. Provide ways to give back. Help constituents understand not only the importance of giving back but also how they can support you. St. Angela Merici created "St. Angela's Angels," a fundraising initiative for student tuition. Check out Principal Paige Bennett's video appeal here.
  2. Look towards the future. Dominican High School put together a "Digitally Dominican" activity book that prospective students can download from their website. Prospective students are also invited to send a picture of themselves working on the activity book to receive a special Dominican treat. Great idea and fun way to keep younger students busy!
  3. Stay positive. A St. Augustine High School student interviewed Fr. Tony Ricard and reflected on making the best of a situation and the blessings this time has brought. Cabrini High School held a virtual senior countdown celebrating the class of 2020 on its Facebook page. What uplifting ways to support their communities!

Lagniappe: Click here for the recording and helpful resources from the " Best Practices for Digital Fundraising in Trying Times ” webinar co-presented by CCS Fundraising and #iGiveCatholic! Plus, check out NCEA Virtual's spring workshops, beginning with a "Budget and Finance" offering on May 20.
Nonprofit Ministries
Here are three more ways to engage your constituent communities:

  1. Say thank you. Many nonprofits depend on their volunteers to provide critical support for their organizations not only during this difficult time but also prior to COVID-19. Sr. Marjorie Hebert of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans posted this great video message thanking these important supporters.
  2. Move forward with your next best plan. The Harry Tompson Center announced the date of their annual gala. However, instead of holding their typical in-person event, they have decided to "gather in spirit." The nonprofit asked supporters to stay tuned, and invited them to check out a link to their silent auction items in the meantime.
  3. Expand stewardship efforts. While we're apart, things like handwritten notes go a long way in letting your donors know that you care. Why not think outside off the box? Boys Town Louisiana invited its donors to a briefing call. Check out their email invitation. What a great way to engage donors!

Lagniappe: Click here for the recording and helpful resources from the " Best Practices for Digital Fundraising in Trying Times ” webinar co-presented by CCS Fundraising and #iGiveCatholic! Plus, here are 20 ideas for thanking corporate sponsors if you've moved to a virtual event.
Know someone who would benefit from communications like this?
Please feel free to share this resource or email Callie Kamath
at ckamath@ccfnola.org to be added to the email list.