Why You Will Absolutely Raise More Money Long Term AND Short Term by Being Positive

I have learned something recently that has been incredibly encouraging. My financial ask is working very well, and it is not because I have become more dramatic or more urgent. It is because I am positive. I do not shame or guilt people. I do not spend time talking about how bad things are or how bad people are. Instead, I focus on the goodness and providence of God and on the honor it is that we get to join His work by giving financially to an organization that is doing excellent work in its community.

One of the biggest comments I am hearing lately is that people gave more than they planned. Almost every time, it is followed by something like, “It was just so inspiring.” That is not accidental. People respond differently when generosity is invited instead of demanded.

Too many organizations believe the fastest way to raise money is pressure. If donors feel scared enough or guilty enough, they will give. Sometimes that works in the short term, but it comes at a cost. Donors burn out. They disengage. They quietly decide they do not want to feel that way again next year.

Positive fundraising works because it aligns with how people are actually wired. People want to be part of something good. They want hope. They want to believe their generosity truly matters. When an ask is built around crisis and desperation, donors may give, but often with hesitation. When an ask is built around vision and faithfulness, donors give with joy.

Being positive does not mean ignoring reality. It simply means refusing to let fear be the main motivator. Instead of leading with what might happen if we fail, it leads with what is already happening because God is at work. Instead of focusing on worst case scenarios, it celebrates evidence of God’s provision.

This kind of approach builds trust. When donors hear that an organization is strong, faithful, and stewarding resources well, they feel safe giving. When they hear that it is an honor to be invited into what God is doing, generosity becomes joyful rather than transactional. Over time, that joy turns into loyalty.

That is why positive fundraising does not just raise more money tonight. It raises more money next year. Inspirational asks create repeat donors. Repeat donors create stability. Stability allows organizations to dream bigger, serve better, and ask with confidence instead of panic.

Positivity also honors God. Scripture consistently points us toward generosity that flows from gratitude rather than coercion. God does not shame His people into obedience. He invites them into partnership. When our fundraising reflects that posture, people feel it immediately, even if they cannot quite put it into words.

If you want donors who give once, guilt can work. If you want donors who give for years, lead with hope. Positivity is not soft. It is effective. Confidence in God’s work is contagious.

When people leave an event inspired instead of defeated, they do not just give more. They come back wanting to give again. That is how you raise more money in the short term and build a healthier future for your organization at the same time.

This is also why I love partnering with organizations for banquets and comedy nights. My goal is not just to make people laugh or to help you hit a number for one evening. It is to help create a culture of generosity that lasts. When people leave encouraged, hopeful, and confident in what God is doing through your organization, generosity follows naturally. If you are looking for a way to inspire your donors, raise more money, and strengthen long term support at the same time, I would love to be part of that conversation.