My favorite thing about BGMC is that it honors the idea that even the smallest contribution makes a difference. Regardless of whether your church gives $100 or $100,000 a year, it all plays a large role in putting resources in the hands of missionaries. Here are three ways to motivate your church family to grow in their generosity (specifically towards BGMC).
I have no idea why, but kids go crazy for a good old-fashioned “Boys vs Girls” competition. Okay, let’s be honest- adults go crazy for it too. There doesn’t even necessarily have to be anything to win in order to get people invested in some friendly competition. In a small church context, you can even get the whole church involved. This not only helps get the kids excited about BGMC, but it also helps start the momentum and sets the example as the kids watch the adults generously give. No matter how you do it, the kids will be as passionate as you are. Get excited! Lean into the competitive energy (just keep it healthy)!
“Why should I have to give out a reward?” Because it’s fun! Not only is it a fun way to change things up, but it’s fun to see people getting excited about Giving. However, I don’t mean a reward like giving out Dutch Bros gift cards. Do something that is going to get people really excited. I allowed kids to cover me in condiments and turn me into a human hotdog because we set a challenge to give $1,000 in two months. P. Sean ate a beetle because the kids at Eastern Oregon Kids Camp gave a huge BGMC offering. “I don’t like doing gross stuff like that…” That’s fine! I’m sure someone on your team (or even your lead pastor) would be willing to step in for you! (Tip: Get your lead pastor involved. You’ll see the excitement go to another level.) If you decide to go this route, just be sure to have a clear goal. That way, you can celebrate meeting it or even passing it with your group.
This is the simplest of all three ways. It requires no extra money, few materials, and no gross rewards. The vision of BGMC is one that, when communicated, can spark a fire within your group. Maybe that looks like talking about BGMC every week, even if it’s just for a few minutes. If you want to do more than just talk, the BGMC website has SO MANY VIDEOS. Videos from missionaries, videos about BGMC projects, and even videos from giving initiatives from years past. If you need more structure, there’s a free curriculum that was created by BGMC. It only needs about 5-10 minutes and can easily be added to your kids service schedule. Regardless of how you do it, get talking about BGMC. I think it can be easy for us to forget just how much BGMC does because it becomes another thing to tick off of our list. Intentionally remind your group about the value of their offering and get them excited about the mission of BGMC.