Fundraising that Respects Your Mission and Grows Your Support
- Rich Swartwood
- Jun 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 28, 2025
Christian camps and outdoor ministries create sacred spaces for rest, renewal, and spiritual transformation. Whether it’s a child’s first encounter with God in creation or a retreat guest finding peace and clarity—your ministry matters deeply.
But running a camp takes more than passion and purpose. It takes partners, planning, and resources.
That’s why Out of the Box Fund Development exists: to help Christian outdoor ministries and other non-profits build strong donor relationships, grow giving, and lay a sustainable foundation for long-term impact.
A Mission-Driven Approach with Measurable ROI
We help ministries realize real returns—not just in dollars raised, but in relationships rekindled, stories told, and hearts moved to give. Here’s what that return looks like:
Regained Donors
Past donors often still care. They just need to be invited back into the story.
New Donors
Clear messaging and intentional follow-up turn first-time supporters into faithful partners.
Better Communication
Mission-focused emails, newsletters, and appeals bring your story to life—and invite action.
Relationship building takes time. Results will vary. But with patience, consistency, and the right story, they will come.
Personalized Support for a Purpose-Driven Mission
To ensure every ministry receives the attention and intentionality it deserves, I limit our client partnerships to no more than eight at a time. This allows me to focus deeply on your unique goals and offer hands-on collaboration every step of the way.
We’re not a cookie-cutter agency—we’re a partner in your ministry.
Sample Scope of Work for a Development Consulting Partnership
Here’s a look at what’s possible when you work with Out of the Box Fund Development:
1. Strategic Collaboration with Staff and Board
Work alongside your team to identify fundraising priorities and create compelling proposals for annual fund support and potential grants.
2. Fundraising Training for Leadership
Deliver a customized 4-hour session to help board members or leadership embrace their role in donor engagement and fund development.
3. Donor Data Analysis
Use your existing database or giving platform to analyze trends and identify current, lapsed, and potential donors for targeted outreach.
4. Spring Micro-Fundraiser Development
Design a focused $8,000–$12,000 campaign to re-engage and attract donors. Includes:
Social media content
Letters to churches and supporters
Print materials and postcards
Optional 50% matching gift from a recruited donor
5. Quarterly Newsletter Support
Help build or contribute to an e-newsletter that shares impact stories from staff, campers, families, and user groups—keeping your community connected and inspired.
6. Fall Day of Giving + Year-End Appeal
Plan and implement a powerful fall giving day and year-end campaign. Includes:
Custom email and social content
Print donor mailings
Messaging segmented for key audiences: campers, alumni, guests, and partners
7. Grant Research & Proposal Prep
Research relevant grants for operating and capital needs. Provide a grant proposal template and assist with funder connections.
8. Quarterly Progress Reporting
Keep your leadership informed with quarterly updates on campaign performance, donor trends, and strategic recommendations.
How It Works
Out of the Box Fund Development provides the content and tools—emails, letters, graphics, templates, and strategic support. Your team puts the plan into action through printing, posting, mailing, and in-person donor engagement.
I stay available for guidance and check-ins, so you’re never on your own.
Ready to Grow Your Camp’s Support?
Whether you need a plan, a partner, or a push—I’d love to help.
Reach out today to learn more about partnering with Out of the Box Fund Development. Let's build something lasting—for your ministry, and for the people it serves.


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