1. Start with the basics: who you are + why you’re writing

People need context right away.

• “Hi, my name is ___ and I’m part of THRIVE, the high school ministry at SFB.”

• “I’m writing because I have an amazing opportunity this Spring Break…”

Keep it short and simple.

2. Share why this trip matters — personally and spiritually

People give to purpose, not projects. Write 1–2 sentences on the following:

• Why they want to go

• What they hope God does in them

• Why the mission work matters

The key is authenticity, not fancy words.

3. Include what the team will be doing in the DR

Keep it clear and inspiring, not overwhelming This helps supporters feel connected to the mission:

• Building two chapels for local pastors

• Hosting a VBS & Sports outreach for kids

• Serving alongside local pastors & missionaries

4. Make a clear, specific ask

Many students say “anything helps!” but never actually ask. It’s important to ask!

• “My trip costs $___.”

• “Would you be willing to support me with a gift of $25, $50, or any amount God puts on your heart?”

This is Clear. Confident. Respectful.

5. Invite people to pray — not just give

Some people can’t donate financially, but they still feel honored to be included.
Always include:

• “Would you pray for me and our team as we prepare? I personally would appreciate prayers for _____”

This keeps the letter relational, not transactional.

6. Make it personal, not generic

✔ Tell a short story
✔ Mention meaningful details
✔ Use your own voice
✘ Don’t copy/paste from another student
✘ Don’t try to sound “churchy”

Real is better than polished!

7. Keep it to one page

People rarely read anything longer.
Aim for 3–5 short paragraphs, lots of white space, and a clean layout.

8. Give simple, clear instructions for how to donate

• Check to: First Baptist Church (memo: Student Name – DR Trip)

• Online link: fbcsalem.org/give → DR Missions (emaik must be sent for it to be designated for you personally)

• Send to: 1960 Marion St SE, Salem, OR…

9. Include a return envelope (optional, but powerful)

A self-addressed envelope = higher response rate.

Students can include:

• Pre-addressed envelope

• Possibly a stamp (if they want to go the extra mile)

10. Personalize it for each recipient

Write the person’s name at the top. Don’t start with “Dear Friends and Family…”
Hand-sign it at the bottom.

Even better: write a short, handwritten note:

• “Aunt Linda, thanks for always cheering me on!”

• “Grandpa, I am so glad you are in my life!”

• “I’ll never forget that time you pranked me, thanks for always making me smile.”

11. Follow up wisely

Check in after a few weeks (this alone can raise hundreds more), it’s okay to:

• Send a gentle text reminder

• Ask if they received the letter

• Answer questions

12. ALWAYS send a thank-you letter

Supporters want to know their gift mattered.

• Initial thank you within 2–3 weeks of receiving support

• After the trip with 1–2 photos

This builds long-term relationships for future trips too!

Before You Write

☐ Gather at least 15-20 names & addresses of people you’ll send letters to

☐ Pray about who to invite to support you

☐ Know the purpose of the trip and what your role will be

☐ Understand your fundraising goal & deadlines

Content of the Letter

☐ Warm greeting (use names!)

☐ Personal introduction (who you are)

☐ Why you’re going on the trip / what God has been teaching you

☐ Brief description of the mission trip (where, when, what you’ll be doing)

☐ What excites you most / how you hope to grow

☐ Clear financial goal & how funds will be used

☐ Clear support ask:

☐ Prayer support

☐ Financial support

☐ Instructions for donations (online link + instructions)

☐ Deadline for giving

☐ Thank them in advance

☐ Include a personal signature

Tone & Style

☐ Warm, personal, and grateful

☐ Not too long (1 page is ideal)

☐ Avoid guilt-based language

☐ Make it “your voice,” not a template copy/paste

Before Sending

☐ Proofread for clarity & typos

☐ Ask a parent or leader to review it

☐ Make sure your name is clearly on the letter

☐ Include a return envelope if sending physical mail (optional but helpful)

☐ Pray for the people receiving your letter

After Sending

☐ Track who you sent letters to

☐ Send thank-you notes to supporters

☐ Send a follow-up update after the trip