Don't Let Money Stop You
How to Raise Funds for Your YWAM DTS
So you want to do a Discipleship Training School (DTS). Maybe you heard about it from a friend who just came back from theirs, you were at The Send, or you found us on social media. Whatever got you interested, you probably did some quick research and found out there’s a cost. Unfortunately, money is one of the main reasons why people decide not to do a DTS and go on missions. The number one thing we want to encourage you with is this: often God uses our lack of finances as a part of our discipleship process. It builds forced dependence on him and puts us in a position to be radically obedient despite our physical limitations.
With that being said, we want to make sure you have the tools necessary to jump into fundraising. These ideas are good templates, but they’ll be most successful if you put your own twist and personality into them.
Are you ready? Okay, lets go!
1.Online Fundraising: The internet is a powerful tool for raising funds. Consider starting an online fundraising campaign on platforms such as GoFundMe, Kickstarter or FundMyTravel. Share your story, explain why you want to go to a DTS, and set a realistic goal. Share the link with your friends, family, and social media contacts, and don't be afraid to ask for their support. Many people are happy to donate to a worthy cause.
*Pro tip: use your, tiktok, Instagram, and YouTube channels. Short form content has been producing very solid results. Not only can you raise money, you can create a following and inspire others as you take this step of faith. Make sure you tag @ywamyosemite for a chance for us to feature your campaign on our socials.
2. Host a Fundraising Event: Host a fundraising event in your community like a bake sale, yard sale, car wash, or charity concert. You can also organize a dinner party, silent auction, or fun run. Partner with your church, school, or local businesses to help spread the word and raise awareness. Events like these can be a lot of fun and create a sense of community around your fundraising goal.
*Pro tip: When you join us at YWAM Yosemite, you’re not joining a program, you're joining a movement. That means our stories and testimonies are yours to use. Let your donors know you’re joining an established missions organization with a rich history of mobilizing young people into the nations and seeing long lasting results. Check out this testimony from Nepal!
3. Sell Products or Services: Do you have a talent or hobby you can turn into a business? Consider selling your products or services to raise funds. For example, you could sell handmade jewelry, baked goods, offer tutoring services. Are you a photographer, videographer, or social media influencer? Reach out to your network to see if anyone needs help with anything and offer to provide a service in exchange for a donation.
4. Creative Fundraising Challenges: Organize fun and engaging challenges to raise funds. For instance, you can create a sponsored walk, run, or bike ride where friends and family can pledge an amount per mile or lap completed. You could also challenge yourself to a social media detox and ask for donations for every day you stay offline. Get creative and find activities that resonate with your passions and interests.
*Leave a comment with other creative fundraising challenges that you think could be beneficial to other readers.
5. Partner with Local Artists: Connect with local artists, musicians, or performers who share your passion for missions. Organize a fundraising concert, art exhibition, or talent show where all proceeds go towards your DTS fees. This not only provides a platform for local talent but also brings the community together for a memorable evening while supporting your cause.
A bonus tip: The most import thing to do is to PRAY! Talk to God about your fundraising. Ask Him what He thinks about it and who you should personally ask.
Also ask us about our fundraising e-book we can deliver straight to your inbox.
Don't let a lack of funds hold you back from the life-changing experience of a YWAM DTS. You have the power to make God’s calling on your life a reality, so take action and start fundraising today. Take a step of faith and apply for your DTS, knowing that God will provide all you need. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, and the lessons you learn along the way will shape you for years to come. What you decide today could impact the nations forever!
