Unlocking New Possibilities for Your Church Capital Campaign
The Financial & Spiritual Power of Creative Giving
When most people hear the words “church capital campaign,” they immediately think of cash donations, and rightfully so. Monetary gifts are the backbone of many fundraising efforts. But at Walsh & Associates, we believe a truly successful church campaign goes beyond the offering plate. That’s why we integrate Creative Giving Seminars into every campaign we lead.
Firstly, because there’s often more to give than people realize. When you open the door to non-cash giving, you’re inviting generosity from unexpected places. And secondly, it offers people a way to make a powerful spiritual statement. To declare that the church is part of their family, their story, and their hope for the future.
“The materials provided in the Creative Giving Seminar were excellent. Our Creative Giving Chair was able to use the materials in numerous one-on-one sessions.” ~ Rev. Ralph Blomenburg, Pastor, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Seymour, IN
Unlocking Resources That Can Accelerate Your Church’s Capital Campaign
Creative Giving is a proven, practical approach to unlocking resources that can accelerate your campaign and expand donor engagement. These gifts often come from assets rather than income and can have tremendous value to your church. Yet many congregations never talk about them, and many members don’t even realize they’re an option.
At Walsh, we make sure your church doesn’t miss these opportunities. Our Creative Giving Seminars are designed to educate, inspire, and empower members to support their church in new and meaningful ways. Here are four important types of creative gifts that we spotlight:
1. Securities (Stocks, Bonds, & Mutual Funds)
Why it matters: Donating appreciated securities can offer donors a double tax benefit: the donor may avoid paying capital gains tax and receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value.
Church benefit: This type of gift can be substantial and arrive early in your campaign. It’s a win-win for both the donor and the mission.
2. Personal Property (Jewelry, Artwork, Vehicles, etc.)
Why it matters: People often own valuable items they’re no longer using but have sentimental or historical ties to. Offering these as gifts can be a deeply personal act of faith and legacy.
Church benefit: With proper stewardship, personal property gifts can be appraised, sold, or repurposed in ways that advance your campaign goals and mission.
3. Real Estate
Why it matters: Whether it’s a parcel of land, a second home, or an inherited property, real estate gifts can carry enormous value. They’re also one of the most underutilized assets in church campaigns.
Church benefit: Real estate gifts can eliminate debt, fund new construction, or be used creatively within your ministry’s long-term vision. And they can often be structured to benefit both the church and the donor’s estate planning.
4. Life Insurance Policies
Why it matters: Many people hold life insurance policies that no longer serve their original purpose. By naming the church as a beneficiary—or transferring ownership—donors can leave a legacy without impacting their current finances.
Church benefit: While these gifts may be realized in the future, they ensure sustainability and long-term ministry impact. They’re often one of the most meaningful gifts someone can make.
Why Creative Giving Matters in Every Campaign
We’ve seen it time and time again: Creative Giving helps churches raise more, engage more, and plan better for the future. But it only works when it’s intentionally included as part of the campaign strategy.
That’s why at Walsh & Associates, we don’t treat it as optional—we include Creative Giving training and seminars as a standard part of our Best Results Church Capital Campaign Services®. Your congregation deserves to understand all the ways they can give—and your campaign deserves every available resource to succeed.
Scripture teaches us that stewardship is not just about money, but about our whole life. Creative Giving reflects this truth. It’s not just generous, it also wise, faithful, and strategic.
If you’re preparing for a capital campaign or wondering how to deepen generosity in your church, we’d love to talk – call us or click the Contact button. Together, we can open new doors for giving and greater possibilities for your ministry.
