Resources

Campaign Best Practices

How to run a trustworthy, effective campaign on Second Collection.

A successful campaign is not just one that reaches its goal. It is one that builds trust, communicates clearly, and honors the faithful who give. These practices will help you present your need with honesty and dignity.

01 — Best Practice

Tell the Truth Clearly

Donors give when they understand the need. Vague campaigns underperform — not because the cause is unworthy, but because donors cannot picture where their gift is going.

—State the specific need in plain language
—Explain who will benefit and how
—Describe exactly how funds will be used
—Avoid exaggeration or emotional manipulation
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Parish

New Roof for St. Joseph Parish Hall

St. Joseph Parish · Brooklyn, NY

Our 1960s roof has failed inspection. Repairs must begin before winter to protect the sanctuary.

42% funded

$18,000 raised of $42,000 goal

02 — Best Practice

Fundraising Goal

$42,000

Materials$28,000
Labor$10,000
Permits & fees$4,000

Set an Honest Goal

Your fundraising goal should reflect the actual cost of the need — not a padded number, not a wish, not a guess.

—Research the real cost before setting your goal
—Break the goal down if possible so donors understand it
—A specific, justified goal earns more trust than a round number with no explanation

03 — Best Practice

Use a Strong Cover Photo

Your cover photo is the first thing donors see. It should communicate the need with dignity and respect.

—Use a real, high-quality photo related to the campaign
—Avoid stock photography where possible
—Never use images of individuals without their permission
—The photo should be respectful, not sensational

Less Effective

no photo

Help Our Church

No description provided.

More Effective

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Restore the St. Anne Chapel Roof

Built in 1923, our chapel needs urgent repair before the winter season.

04 — Best Practice

Campaign Update

March 15, 2026 · St. Joseph Parish

We have reached 50% of our goal — praise God. Thank you to every parishioner and friend who has given so far. Work is scheduled to begin in April.

Keep Donors Informed

Campaigns that post updates raise more and build lasting relationships with supporters.

—Post an update within the first week of going live
—Share progress milestones as they are reached
—Thank donors publicly through updates
—If circumstances change, communicate honestly and promptly

05 — Best Practice

Represent Your Organization Well

Your campaign reflects on your parish, ministry, or organization. Present it with care.

—Use your organization’s proper name as it is publicly known
—Include your parish and diocese — it strengthens credibility
—Make sure your organizer profile is complete before launching

St. Joseph Parish

Diocese of Brooklyn

Brooklyn, NY

✓Parish Verified

3 campaigns · Member since 2025

06 — Best Practice

Review Status

✓

Submitted for Review

✓

Under Review

3

Approved & Live

Understand the Review Process

Every campaign on Second Collection is reviewed before it goes live. This protects donors and strengthens trust in every campaign on the platform.

—Allow time for review before your target launch date
—Respond promptly if our team has questions
—Campaigns that are clear, specific, and honest are approved faster
—Review is not an obstacle — it is what makes Second Collection trustworthy

Second Collection exists to help the faithful give and receive support with trust, clarity, and reverence. A well-prepared campaign honors that mission.

Questions about your campaign? Contact us at info@secondcollection.org.

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