Summary of Episode 88: Transforming Ministry for Youth: How Young Life Raised $119K in One Night [$10M Story, Part 2 of 5]

The Fundraising Masterminds Podcast, hosted by Jim Dempsey and Jason Galicinski, presents Episode 88 titled "Transforming Ministry for Youth: How Young Life Raised $119K in One Night [$10M Story, Part 2 of 5]". This episode is part of a five-part series celebrating the collective success of over 100 Perfect Vision Dinner events that have collectively raised $10 million for various ministries. The episode spotlights Chris Iwasco from Young Life, sharing his transformative journey and the strategies that led Young Life to surpass their fundraising goals.

1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode kicks off with Jim Dempsey reflecting on his past challenges with fundraising banquets. At [00:10], he shares:

"I hated doing the banquets. It was just exhausting. And it's the same people that are showing up every year. There's no new blood coming to it."

This sets the stage for discussing innovative fundraising approaches that move beyond traditional, often monotonous methods.

2. Overview of the $10M Story Series

Jason Galicinski introduces the series:

"We're in the second episode of a five-part series called the $10 million story." ([01:28])

The series highlights how over 100 Perfect Vision Dinner events have collectively raised $10 million, inspiring nonprofit leaders with practical solutions and success stories.

3. Guest Introduction: Chris Iwasco from Young Life

Chris Iwasco from Young Life joins the discussion at [06:36]. Young Life, known for its global outreach to youth, benefits significantly from strategic fundraising efforts like the Perfect Vision Dinner.

4. Chris's Journey into Ministry

Chris narrates his calling to ministry:

"I've always known that being in ministry in some capacity was a call in my life." ([06:56])

Starting as a club kid in high school, Chris transitioned to a volunteer leader in college, eventually becoming an area director for Young Life. His long-term commitment is evident as he serves in his hometown, reconnecting with his roots.

5. The Importance of Reaching Youth

Jim emphasizes the unique opportunity youth present:

"Statistically, the hearts of a young person are going to be more open than they are as an adult." ([09:28])

Reaching out to youth early can prevent them from facing life's pitfalls and build a strong spiritual foundation. The discussion highlights the challenges posed by social media and the evolving interests of younger generations, yet underscores their immense potential for impactful movements.

6. Challenges in Traditional Fundraising

Jim reflects on traditional fundraising struggles:

"I hated doing the banquets. It was just exhausting." ([00:10])

He describes these events as repetitive and draining, often involving the same donors without attracting new support, leading to burnout and limited growth.

7. Introduction to the Perfect Vision Dinner Mentorship Program

The Perfect Vision Dinner mentorship program emerges as a game-changer. It's a structured 21-22 week class focusing on "friend-raising" instead of just fundraising. The program offers:

• Homework Assignments: Videos and workbooks to guide participants.
• Weekly Cohort Meetings: Accountability and support from peers.
• Practical Coaching: Tips on negotiating with vendors, planning events, and managing donor relationships.

8. Chris's Experience with the Program

Chris shares his transformative experience:

"The accountability that the model that the class provides was probably the most valuable part." ([22:55])

He highlights how the program's structured timeline alleviated last-minute pressures, allowing for thoughtful planning and execution. Practical skills, such as negotiating contracts and organizing effectively, empowered him to approach fundraising with confidence.

9. Achieving Success: Raising $119K

Implementing the Perfect Vision Dinner strategies, Chris recounts:

"We ended up coming in at $119,000 after the dust settled." ([31:27])

This surpasses their initial goal of $100,000, turning around a previously deficit-stricken budget. The success not only closed financial gaps but also paved the way for new ministry initiatives, including expanding to middle schools and securing additional donations for operational costs.

10. Insights on Development and Donor Management

Key strategies that drove success include:

• Matching Challenges: Presenting matching gift opportunities significantly boosted contributions.

  "We presented it in the context of the matching challenge. People heard that and said, okay, we can meet the match." ([36:40])

• Monthly Donors: Emphasizing the importance of monthly donations created a steady financial backbone.

  "Monthly partners are such a huge and critical part." ([35:33])

• Effective Communication: Crafting compelling scripts and building genuine relationships shifted donor perception from superficial to meaningful engagement.

11. The Winner's Circle and Future Goals

Chris's achievement qualifies him for the Winner's Circle, an exclusive group for mentors who raise significant funds. Jason explains:

"We're taking the foundation and raising the floor every year." ([27:00])

This circle provides ongoing support, encouraging continued growth and setting higher fundraising targets for future events.

12. How to Get Involved

Listeners inspired by Chris's story are encouraged to apply for the Perfect Vision Dinner mentorship program:

• Application Process: Requires filling out an application to ensure fit and commitment.
• Program Offerings: Twice a year sessions with structured mentorship and relationship-building focus.
• Engagement: Emphasizes building genuine friendships and understanding the ministry's needs.

13. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with an invitation to listeners to join the mentorship program and support Young Life's ongoing initiatives. Chris expresses excitement about future fundraising endeavors, and the hosts reiterate the transformative power of strategic fundraising and mentorship.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jim Dempsey on Traditional Banquets:

  "[00:10] I hated doing the banquets. It was just exhausting."

• Chris Iwasco on Feeling Prepared:

  "[24:24] Knowing how to go in and ask for this size cut of that kind of meat, those tips and whatever, I felt armed."

• Jim Dempsey on Youth's Open Hearts:

  "[09:28] Statistically, the hearts of a young person are going to be more open than they are as an adult."

• Chris Iwasco on Mentorship Accountability:

  "[22:55] The accountability that the model that the class provides was probably the most valuable part."

• Jim Dempsey on Matching Challenges:

  "[36:40] We presented it in the context of the matching challenge. People heard that and said, okay, we can meet the match."

Key Takeaways

• Structured Mentorship is Crucial: Programs like Perfect Vision Dinner offer the necessary framework and support to transform traditional fundraising approaches.

• Focus on Relationships: Shifting from mere fundraising to friend-raising creates deeper, more sustainable donor relationships.

• Early and Strategic Planning: Extended timelines and practical coaching prevent last-minute chaos and enhance event effectiveness.

• Leveraging Youth Potential: Engaging youth effectively can lead to significant impacts, both spiritually and financially.

• Continuous Growth and Support: Joining exclusive groups like the Winner's Circle fosters ongoing development and sets the stage for future successes.

For those interested in replicating Chris's success or enhancing their fundraising strategies, applying for the Perfect Vision Dinner mentorship program is a recommended step. Visit midcounty.younglife.org.org or connect with Chris Iwasco on Instagram @midcountyYL to learn more and contribute to Young Life's mission of impacting youth worldwide.