Everyone loves a winner, we are told — and there is truth in that statement. In ministry, people want to be a part of an organization that is growing and — in effect — winning as it seeks to impact lives. While our ministries do not need to fall victim to "spinning" every piece of information, we do want to create an overall positive perception of our work.

To build this positive perception, one of the keys is celebration. As a board, it is part of our mission to promote the min­istry through celebrating milestones and contributions that build our success. When we do this, our constituents — whether financial partners or volunteers — are encouraged. And just as important, potential financial partners and volunteers see us as viable and on the cutting edge. As a result, they are more likely to join our team.

Illustrating this principle is simple: When is the last time we heard a professional athlete tell us, "Now that I am a free agent, I'd love to play for a losing team and relax a little"? Of course not. Athletes want to play for a team that can compete for a title, and so do the rest of us.

As a ministry we need to be truth-tellers. Yet in telling the truth, there is nothing wrong with highlighting the positive and telling our constituents, "We are winning as we reach out to the women and families we see." Here are a few ways we can celebrate:

Milestones
Your ministry's anniversaries should be times of celebration. Let people know by taking out an ad in the paper, hosting an open house, creating a special edition of the newsletter or in any one of a number of ways.

With volunteers, the same is true. When a volunteer serves one year, three years, five years, ten years — we should celebrate. Give a gift, throw a party — do something special. If a volunteer serves ten years we should consider a special reception celebrating his or her achievement. This sends a strong message to the volunteer and to others: "We love you."

Magic Numbers
Did we recently see our 1,000th client? Over the years, can we count a milestone number of women who changed their minds and chose life for their babies? We should celebrate. Let people know when the ministry reaches a magic number. Some magic numbers might be sent to the local paper, others stay with in-house publications. Still, let's celebrate.

Financial Benchmarks
Think about your next banquet. Over the years, how much has been pledged and given at this special event? If you are near a benchmark number ($100,000? $500,000?), let people know. It might make a huge difference in giving at this year's event. Other events qualify also — and don't forget the total number of dollars given since opening day. As you approach benchmarks, let people know. This could be a catalyst that encourages more gifts.

Let's celebrate. Celebrations encourage us at the present, and create a bright future.

Reprinted by permission from Boards of Excellence, a LifeTrends publication. If you'd like to know more about the resources provided by LifeTrends that can be used to encourage your volunteers, educate your Board and reach your supporters, contact Kirk Walden at kirk.walden@comcast.net.