Practical Fundraising Tools with Redina Kolaneci

In this powerful conversation, Redina Kolaneci shares practical fundraising tools rooted in biblical principles, highlighting Jesus' model of trust before strategy. She challenges the sacred–secular divide and reframes fundraising as a ministry of relational generosity. Through global stories—from Slovakia to Mizoram—she demonstrates how culturally contextual and prayer-led fundraising empowers local ownership, sustainability, and transformation. The key message: God provides through many hands and hearts when we trust, listen, and act faithfully.
 

  • Fundraising = Ministry: It’s not just strategic—it’s spiritual, relational, and deeply connected to God’s mission.

  • Jesus’ Example: He prayed before acting, received gifts from all (rich and poor), and walked slowly, relationally.

  • Break 3 Paradigms:

    1. Fundraising is not just hard—it’s ministry.

    2. Reject the sacred/secular divide.

    3. Avoid total dependency on external funding.

  • Start with Calling, Not Crisis: Ground your fundraising efforts in prayer, identity, and vision—not panic.

  • Local Ownership: Empower local believers to give with what they have—rice, chickens, skills, time.

  • Cultural Relevance: Use culturally appropriate methods (WhatsApp over newsletters, thank-you meals over appeals).

  • Build Teams: Fundraising is not a solo job. Involve volunteers and communities.

  • Storytelling & Relationships: Donors connect deeply through personal relationships and stories.

  • Give Space to Women: Often overlooked, women are key to relational and community-based fundraising.

  • Non-monetary Gifts Matter: Housing, food, volunteer hours—recognize all contributions.

Notable Quotes

"Jesus asked God first before he asked people."

"Fundraising is connecting God’s people to God’s work."

"Don’t start with the crisis—start with God’s calling."

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