AmericanChurch, Inc.

Kentucky Church Has Winning Combination for Giving

2011-12-27T10:37:00.000-08:00

Okolona Christian Church in Louisville, KY is a model church for utilizing both print and electronic tools to gain tithes, offerings and gifts to their church.

Okolona has been mailing their members offering envelopes since 2002 with AmericanChurch, Inc., and more recently added Online Giving – a combination that works well.

Business administrator, Elaine Duncan manages the contributions for the church. “When a member goes to online giving, we take them off of our envelope list. By offering both methods of giving, people can give in the way that works best for them,” Elaine comments.

The church has no plans to adjust their offering envelope program, as many members prefer that method of giving. Along with the weekly envelope, a mail back envelope is included in every packet to encourage sending in their gift when away.

Elaine says, “In most cases, our older members prefer to receive envelopes and younger people gravitate to the electronic option. Yet we have several older members who use Online Giving because it allows their gift to be automatically debited from their account like their utilities.”

When asked which method she prefers from an administration standpoint, Elaine would like to see more people online. She points out the money goes directly into the church’s account, that gifts are more regular due to the recurring option, and that Online Giving is easy to manage. Elaine is pleased that online givers have continued to grow. That’s partly because Okolona does an excellent job of promoting the electronic option.

“We always have a blurb in the bulletin about online giving. In addition, whenever we talk about stewardship, we make sure that it’s mentioned. It seems that as soon as we bring it up, more people sign up almost immediately.”

In that spirit of promotion, Okolona Christian Church has a web page dedicated to online giving. The page contains copy about the importance of online giving as a means of income to the church. A downloadable brochure that explains online giving and answers frequently asked questions is also featured on the page.

Okolona’s approach to gaining contributions works. By making it easy for people to give in the way they prefer, they experience sustained giving and support for their ministries.

Merry Christmas from AmericanChurch

2011-12-22T05:16:00.000-08:00

AmericanChurch, Inc. would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

Print Plus Web - A Match Made in Heaven

2011-12-13T05:26:00.000-08:00

I have visited several churches throughout the country over the past few months. Although each church is different in size and scope, there was a recurring discussion worth repeating.

As electronic giving continues to increase across generations, some church leaders tend to equate that increase with a decrease in the demand for printed offering envelopes. “How do we decide which to use? Can we eliminate envelopes?” is a common comment. We respond with a resounding “CAUTION”.

The thought is appropriate, but the caution lies in placing the giving habits of your members and guests into one bucket, and limiting the vehicles by which they prefer to give. Printed offering envelopes and online giving are not competition, but rather, complimentary vehicles for communication and contributions. Unless your congregational make up is of a single generation, your church will benefit from both print and electronic giving vehicles – especially if used in concert with each other.

Does your offering envelope include the URL to Online Giving? Is there an “I gave online” check box on your offering envelope that allows the electronic giver to participate in the act of worship during service?

Does your website reinforce the message of prayerful giving? Are you reminding your congregation that they can set up recurring gifts or one time gifts easily online?

There are countless ways that you can promote engagement and contributions through the use of printed and web communications together. Considering the cost of printed offering envelopes is just a couple dollars per year per member, it only wise to continue this traditional form of giving in your communication mix along with online giving.

Let’s hear from you. How do you use offering envelopes and online giving to communicate to members and guests?

2011 Hot Product

2011-12-01T12:21:00.001-08:00

Religious Product News®, a monthly publication for religious leaders and pastors named Online Giving from AmericanChurch, Inc. a Hot Product for 2011.

In the magazine’s evaluation, ACI Online Giving is a product that will help churches operate more effectively and efficiently.

Of course, we agree, but don’t take our word or even the endorsement of the magazine. Take Anita Coleman's word, administrator of Enon Tabernacle Church in Philadelphia.

“Online Giving is revolutionary,” Coleman says. “Members love the option to give online and set up giving on their terms.

People expect change to be difficult, but Coleman says that as soon as members saw how easy Online Giving is to set up, the compliments started coming in. It’s important to be able to offer members giving options, Coleman notes. And giving electronically lets them have the opportunity to give when they are out-of-town or on vacation.”

As the use of technology grows and the generation gap of internet users continues to narrow, churches need an online giving option. ACI Online Giving is a preferred solution for several important reasons.

ACI Online Giving was developed specifically to suit the unique needs of churches. Reporting features allow for easy import and appropriate reporting at the touch of a button. The church is in control of the types of funds to offer and how they will accept gifts (ACH or Credit Card).

The giver can access Online Giving directly from the church website. He can set up recurring funds – which equates to better consistency of contributions coming into the church.

AmericanChurch thanks Religious Products News® for recognizing ACI Online Giving as an appropriate “wish list” product for 2012.

For more information about Online Giving, download our FREE white paper, Why Churches Should Implement Online Giving.

3 Must-dos for Effective Outreach

2011-11-15T12:40:00.001-08:00

You've decided to invite your community to an event, a direct response to Jesus's calling in Acts 1:8.

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere - in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria and to the ends of the earth"

Here's three "must-dos" for effective outreach:

Go with an event that you do well and one that meets a need.

There are several things that might attract people to visit your church, but focus on the Big Thing that your church does well and meets a need in the community. Now you're on your way to engagement. An "After School" program, a fun Fall Festival, an Easter Egg Hunt, a Meet and Greet with food and drink, a Food Drive - these events get attention and meet needs in tangible ways.
If you want to reach 30 people, connect with 1000. Every which way and often.

Do it any other way and you'll be wasting your resources. Two rules of advertising apply here. One is that an average response to direct mail to a household list is about 3%*. The second rule is that a person must be exposed to a message three times before it sinks in. That's why we are plagued with the same commercials many times over.

Here's the lesson. It's better to send a card to the same people three times than to a larger number of people once. For further impact, use multiple media channels. Send the postcard, post the message on your sign, include it in your bulletin and give cards to members to distribute to friends. Not all of these require added expense, yet go far in supporting your efforts.
Know what to do with the people God brings you.

When your outreach achieves the response you are looking for, take full opportunity to show them the love of Christ. This means doing the Big Thing well, as well as having a plan on how you'll meet visitor's needs.

Make sure there are plenty of people on hand who represent your church well. Consider training staff and members on the vision of your church or non threatening methods of evangelism.

Ultimately God will work in people's hearts. Our job is to represent Him with love, sincerity and warmth.

These are just three of many ways that churches can help to advance outreach efforts. We know there's many more "must-dos" that you have found to be helpful in effective outreach. Care to share the knowledge?

(*http://www.the-dma.org/cgi/dispannouncements?article=1451)

Website Guru Interview with Christian Computing Magazine, Part 2

2011-10-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

In Part 2 of Steve Hewitt's interview with Aaron Winn, website guru for AmericanChurch, Inc., Aaron shares the insider's view of Radius Web Tools, built for ministry.

CCM: What led to the development of a web solution geared toward churches?

ACI: Unlike some church website solutions, Radius Web Tools was not originally built just for churches. In fact, Radius Web Tools was built in the early days of content management systems (nearly a decade ago) for a Christian university. It was so powerful and worked so well and met with so much success that local ministries asked for a simplified version they could use themselves. When these requests began to increase, the Radius Web Tools team spent the better part of a year building the user interface now enjoyed by ministries across the nation. Its genesis as a powerful software engine lends a great deal of stability and extensibility to Radius Web Tools that allows it to power websites of only a few pages with a single editor to its current record site of over six thousand pages and more than one hundred editors.

CCM: What makes Radius Web Tools so easy to use for ministries?

ACI: First of all, Radius Web Tools is a content management system. This means that it's specifically designed to allow normal people - not just Kligon-speaking programmers [laughs] - to edit their own site just like they might edit a word processing document on their computer. But what makes Radius Web Tools different than many other content management systems is the quality of its user interface. This sounds a little technical, but we all understand how important a user interface is when we get into a car that we're not used to driving and can't figure out how to adjust the seat or turn on the windshield wipers. When you get into a car with a superb user interface, everything just seems to work how you expect. We take this for granted every day, but thousands of hours of work go into designing a web editing interface like Radius Web Tools that is not only powerful but also easy to use. In fact, it's so easy that the vast majority of editors using it today have absolutely no training!

CCM: What makes Radius Web Tools different from other website software available to churches?

ACI: The real difference is the way Radius Web Tools balances power with ease-of-use. This ease-of-use allows even the most timid editors to add pages, blogs, podcasts, photos, slideshows, etc. without feat of "messing up the site." Its power allows more advanced users to edit in HTML, add Flash snippets, embed widgets, and social media feeds and more. Radius Web Tools also offers one of the fastest deployment times available. For ministries in a hurry, a new website can be deployed within 5-10 minutes of submitting the request. So, a ministry can literally be editing their new site within about a half hour of deciding to deploy their new site!

Website Guru Interview with Christian Computing Magazine, Part 1

2011-10-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

Recently, AmericanChurch, Inc. was highlighted in the September issue of Christian Computing Magazine. Following is an excerpt from the cover story interview between editor in chief, Steve Hewitt and Aaron Winn, Radius Web Tools guru for AmericanChurch, Inc.

CCM: What are the greatest challenges ministries face with their websites?

ACI: In a word: under-utilization. Sadly, most ministries under-utilize their website; they simply don't take advantage of the powerful tools available to them to communicate with and engage their communities. Some ministries have websites that were started years ago and are difficult - if not impossible - to update. Others don't utilize a website at all because they think it's too technical or too expensive for them. This is complicated by the fact that there's a pervasive misperception floating around out there that a programmer is still needed to maintain a website. To be sure good programmers are required to start a website, but maintaining one can easily be done by any pastor or secretary with solid communication skills and comfort with basic computer skills (like word processing, etc.).

CCM: How does Radius Web Tools address these challenges?

ACI: Radius Web Tools is one of the premier website services for ministries on the market today. What differentiates Radius Web Tools from many of the other services out there is how easy it is to use. I've personally met and interacted with the Radius Web Tools team. They're all active in their own churches and so they understand the importance of a reliable, easy-to-use website program that allows ministry leaders to maintain a meaningful website without having to first earn a degree in computer programming.

Radius Web Tools addresses the challenge faced by ministries with outdated websites by making the upgrade quick, painless and quite easy. It helps ministries without any website at all "dip their tow in the water" by providing both DIY and turnkey website solutions that are surprisingly affordable. But the great thing about Radius Web Tools is that you don't have to sacrifice features to get a truly affordable and usable website solution. The single comment we hear most often by new users of Radius Web Tools is "I can't believe how easy this is!".

CCM: What are some of the key elements of Radius Web Tools, and how do they benefit churches?

ACI: Radius Web Tools offers a host of "content" tools including unlimited pages, enewsletters, blogs, podcasts, photo galleries, FAQ's, flipbooks, etc. Rather than restrict usage based on congregation size, everyone pays a low flat fee to use as much as needed. Radius Web Tools also includes a powerful online calendar tool that allows for complex recurring events, detailed descriptions of events, grid views, list views and filtering by user-defined categories like men, women, youth, etc. Also included is a powerful email module that allows ministries to send unlimited enewsletters at no cost and easily manage their own email accounts at their domain.

To read more excerpts from the interview with Aaron, come back on Thursday, October 27th.

Helping Churches Improve Communications

2011-10-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

AmericanChurch, Inc. continues to focus on helping churchesimprove communications. In that effort, an ACI team hosted a communicationbreakfast in Columbus, OH entitled “Church Forward: RelevantCommunication”. Church leaders withindriving distance were invited to Worthington Christian Church, where nationalcommunication expert, Scott Vaughan presented three segments covering differentareas of communication.

Scott’s presentations covered the following topics: CommunicationManagement (inner-office management and relationships), GenerationalCommunication (communicating with different ages), and CongregationalApathy (how to get people to pay attention to promotion).

Some important take-aways that any church interested inbetter communication can benefit from included the following:

Good communication is not automatic. It requiresstrategy and management. An effectivecommunication manager will coordinate a buffet of methodology and messages toreach people and move people into action.

To accomplish this, the churchmanager must be at the executive level, rather than clerical level. He or sheneeds to be kept in the loop at all times.
Statistics overflow in the area of generationalcommunication. It is important toconsider the generalities of people within their generation, but equallyimportant to look at their “world view” and design communication around agroup’s beliefs about life.
One thing is clear. There is not one fool proofmethod to achieve good communication. Communication requires telling your storyoften, in many different ways, using a variety of media.

ScottVaughan, president of Communications, LLC, believes that every church in everycommunity is unique, was created by the Holy Spirit, and belongs to God.Successful churches are those that embrace vertical and horizontalcommunication strategies, building relationships with God (vertical) and others(horizontal). Through these relationships, the work of the church is accomplished:People are introduced to Jesus and are discipled into a 'love and serve'relationship with Him.

Scott emphasizes the methodology of effective communication,and AmericanChurch, Inc. provides thenecessary tools. ACI’s products and services are designed to help churchesincrease giving, improve communication and develop strong communities.

Please visit www.americanchurch.comto see how ACI can help your church or organization.

Are EFT and ACH the same?

2011-10-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Many people seem to have a misconception about electronicgiving. We hear many church administrators say they already offer electronicgiving or their members are already giving electronically. In most cases whatthey mean is that some of the members use their bank’s “Bill Pay” feature toprocess contributions to their church electronically. There is a difference between the electronicprocess used by banks and that utilized in Online Giving.

When a member arranges to process the church donation usinghis/her bank’s Bill Pay service, he/she is simply instructing the bank to issuea check on a certain date for the specified amount. The bank mails a papercheck to the church which the church staff has to process like any other checkreceived during the Sunday Mass. This process is commonly referred to as EFT –Electronic Funds Transfer.

In Online Giving, there is no check issued by any bank andthe member’s donation goes directly from the member’s bank account to thechurch’s bank account. It is transmitted over the ACH network. The term ACH stands forAutomated Clearing House. ACH is an electronic network of financialinstitutions in the United States. It is managed by NACHA – Electronic PaymentAssociation, a nonprofit organization with over 11,000 members that manages thedevelopment, administration, and governance of the ACH Network.

So why would anyone switch from EFT to ACH for church donations?In the first place, there is no risk of losing a check in the mail in ACHprocess. Secondly, the bank deducts the funds from the account on the scheduleddate although it may take 5 to 7 days for the check to reach the church. If thecheck is lost, there is no way for the church or the member to know. The churchmember may be under the false impression that he/she has given to the churchwhereas the church may think the member simply forgot to give since thedonation is voluntary. In the case of ACH transaction, the church will knowwhat it should be collecting if the member has set up recurring donations. Also,it also does not have to process a paper check which in some cases adds to thecost. The ACH transfer takes no more than 2 to 3 days and can be traced easily.

Thirdly, Online Giving has several features, such as schedulingpledges and recurring contributions, choosing the date to give and frequency(weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.) suspending or cancelling futuredonations, etc. The EFT payment option offered by banks generally does not haveas much flexibility as the ACH option offered by Online Giving.

As the volume of checks steadily declines, it is going to increasethe cost of issuing and processing them. The ACH option is the most flexible,secure and cost-effective way to donate and is a true win-win situation forboth the church and the member.

Article written by: Vijay Jeste, Product Manager, Our Sunday Visitor

Relevant Communication

2011-09-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

Your work is piling up. It's time to attack the multiple tasks that have been waiting till "Fall". Why take a morning off of that to attend a workshop?

If you have anything to do with church communication, this workshop will be worth it.

Tuesday September 20th, AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) brings communication expert Scott Vaughan to Columbus to share how your church communication can become RELEVANT.

In "Relevant Communication", Scott will cover three areas in detail.

Communication Management. Effective communication is only as effective as the team who manages it. It's important to know what qualifies people to be good communicators, what expectations church leaders should have for these managers, and how to support and nurture church communicators.

Gender Communication. Our ears may look similar, but we hear things very differently based on our experiences, our circumstances and especially our age. Communication is better when we understand that people see and hear things differently. Learn the differences, adjust your communication accordingly and come away with a good message.

Congregational Apathy. Why don't they read it? There are real reasons why people may be indifferent to communication. Learn what they are and develop forms of communication and messages that spur enthusiasm.

Along with Scott Vaughan, AmericanChurch will host presentations by website guru, Aaron Winn, and a panel of real church administrators who will discuss how printed communication helps increase giving and improve communication.

Wouldn't it be great if your communication can be heard and understood for the first time? You owe it to your church and yourself to discover better ways to communicate in our changing world.

To register for "Church Forward: Relevant Communication", go to www.americanchurch.com or call 1-800-446-3035 x6325.

Communication Hits the Road

2011-09-01T12:36:00.001-07:00

Are you within driving to Columbus, Ohio? How about Columbia, South Carolina? If so, we'd like to meet you there and spend a few hours talking about how you can improve communications for your church. AmericanChurch brings communication expert, Scott Vaughan to Columbus on Tuesday September 20th and Columbia on October 18th and 20th for "Church Foward - Relevant Communication".

"Churches are in the relationship business: Relationships with God and with others. Relationships don't occur without healthy communication. That's why effective communication should be the priority and heartbeat of Kingdom-focused churches." - Scott Vaughan

The information packed morning includes sessions on communication management, gender and generational communications, and congregational apathy. Registrants will also learn about effective church websites and communication tools from AmericanChurch. To register for the Columbus event go to http://www.americanchurch.com/NewsEvents/Workshops/ChurchForward.aspx, or call 1-800-446-3035 to inquire about the October event in South Carolina.

It's Time to Talk Christmas

2011-09-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to make the most out of Christmas this year, the time to plan is now. Many churches spend many hours and resources on events and activities to celebrate the Savior's birth. Are you communicating these treasured activities to your members, your guests and your community?

AmericanChurch, Inc. offers newly designed communication pieces that will deliver your message with style. Choose from coordinated bulletin covers, letterhead, envelopes and offering envelopes. To reach the community AmericanChurch offers postcards or letters sent directly to a targeted mailing list - an effective method of outreach during the holidays.

Call us today to discuss ways that we can help you share the joy of Christmas with those you serve and your community.

A Church Website Needs to be Easy

2011-09-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

A local pastor recently told a story about their church's attempt to build a new church website. A well-intentioned member volunteered to "do the website" for the church. He offered to buy the domain name, create the site, build the pages and maintain the content. The pastor believed it would be a good way to get the church website up and running. And it was. Right up until that well-intentioned member left the church. The church was unable to retrieve the website knowledge and was out thousands of dollars in web expenses that now would be useless to the church.

Many church leaders tell a similar story, and even cringe a little when they hear the word "website". How many church websites have fallen into the internet abyss because the church doesn't have the resources or even know how to locate their own domain name? Based on our conversations with pastors and administrators, there are many websites that have suffered the same death. Painful, yes, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Radius Webtools ends website woes with an easy to use, yet full of function, website that is designed specifically for churches and non-profits. With easy-to-use features that are geared fro church communication, you can maintain a website that is always fresh and vibrant. Your church on the web will be a place for you to connect with your members and community and to educate members. Don't take our word for it. See for yourself by walking through a no-obligation demo today, simply click here to get started.

Church Management Training

2011-09-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

Running the day to day of a church is much like running a business, requiring skills in many different areas. AmericanChurch, Inc., Our Sunday Visitor and Villanova University bring a collection of webinar courses that will sharpen the skills necessary to successful church management, with the first course starting on September 21st.

The Church Management Webinar Series is a collection of twelve relevant courses led by leaders at the top of their field. Courses include:

Stewardship Best Practices
Church Websites
Church Budgeting
Strategic Planning
The Spirituality of Administration
Church Security and Loss Prevention
Leadership Development
External Communications
Civil Law
Human Resources
Social Media
Advisory Councils

If participants choose to view all twelve courses, they can receive a Certificate in Church Management from Villanova University Center for the Study of Church Management.

For more information on the Church Management Webinar Series, visit www.americanchurch.com or call 800-348-2886 ext. 3892.

3 Reasons Why Church Communication is Often Ineffective

2011-08-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

By Scott Vaughan, Scott Vaughan Communications, LLC
www.svministry.com / www.strategicdiscovery.info

Recently, while surfing through several faith-based blog sites, I came across the lament of a denominational leader in Illinois. When it came to communication, he wrote, "I don't think people care about communicating with one another." I understand the pain. I've worked, professionally, around communication for 35 years first as a newspaper writer and then publisher, and the last 17 years in vocational ministry.

While I understand the pain expressed by my colleague, I disagree with the statement. People do care about communication. God wired us for communication at conception. That wiring was and is necessary for a relationship with Him and with others around us. And, we thrive on relationships, and all the healthy ones thrive on communication. So, deep within us, communication is crucially important. Why then does it seem so out of sync in the local church? Why does it seem so ineffective? Most of that problem rests within the church leadership and system management. We just aren't communicating with audiences the way they want to be communicated with and with messages that are simple and easy to understand.

Here are three things to consider, and for discussion within your own congregation. If you are interested in additional support, please visit my online store (www.shopsvministry.com) for a library of essays to help.

Churches don't conduct research among the members. There are so many ways to cmmunicate with people, and most of us have a preferred method we like to use. College-aged and younger love to communicate by text. More and more adults are utilizing social media, like Facebook. Almost everyone above the poverty line and with an active lifestyle is connected somehow by e-mail. Despite all this technology, what's old is suddenly new again - some print methodology is surprisingly alive and very well. But, churches - organized almost exclusively around print methodology "back in the day" - have been unwilling to adapt (efficiently) to new forms of communication and worse have not explored the membership to understand how people really want to receive communication. Quite honestly, most of all that print can be stopped or re-engineered to be more effective. We may have to send communication personnel back to school to learn about social media, e-mail strategies, and even text-messaging services. We must ask our members - the rank-and-file - how do you want to receive information from our church? And, then make all the required changes.
Churches don't edit the message. I am weary of the 27 word sentence, the confusing use of pronouns, and the over-attention to the religious jargon that few of us really understand. In most churches, communication managers are forced to receive promotion or editorial copy (for all uses) and use that copy just like it was written. This results in a mish-mash of messages, the publishing of poorly written copy, and copy that creates more questions than provides answers. Churches can improve readership and audience action by empowering communication managers to edit what's received. We must get to a place where the message is communicated in 200 words or less, can be understood by 12 year olds, answers questions and includes simple word, simple sentences and simple paragraphs. I should be able to read whatever is sent my way in less than 5 minutes. (expand that to 10 minutes for church newsletters)
Churches dont' call people to measurable action. We are no longer in the who, what, when and where era of promotion and messaging. These are the days of explaining "why this is important". Our messages must communicate benefits to audiences, and then push people to respond immediately. We need to say, "Call and register" or "Sign Up" or "Click this link" or "Volunteer now". And, then measure the success of what we do by measurable response. All to often we just promote the who, what, when and where of what we are doing, and pray people slow down and show up. That's an outdated and poor approach to communication. We've got to be more intentional, thinking through how the reader will read and react to our communication, and visualizing whether they will respond or not. And, if we can't be sure they will - we need to go back to the drawing board.

Do you live in driving distance to Columbus, Ohio? AmericanChurch, Inc. is bringing Scott Vaughan to Columbus on Tuesday, September 20th for a morning workshop "Church Forward: Relevant Communication". To register or learn more, click here.

Tale of Two Churches

2011-08-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting story I would like to share with you. What we have are two churches that have been using Online Giving for a year. They are about the same size, within about 10 miles of each other and they both launched Online Giving at about the same time. However, one processed more than twice the dollar amount in online transactions than the other. So we decided to learn more about their experience with Online Giving.

As of July 1, 2011, 350 members at one church switched to giving online while the other, more affluent church signed up only 225 people in the same time frame. Also, the one with more families processed over $750,000 in online contributions while the other church processed less than $300,000. This is remarkable considering the fact that the first church does not offer credit card option for giving while the second one does.

When you dig deeper into the transactions, the reasons become quite obvious. The first church has allowed parents to pay for school tuition and hot lunch programs using Online Giving. They also set up funds to allow parents to pay for various athletic events. These payments made up more than half of the total payments processed online.

According to the church leadership, there are two distinct advantages in using Online Giving for processing payments for various activities in addition to weekly offering:

Church members do not have to write checks for payment, nor does the church have to process them manually. The bank has now started charging the church to process the checks, so fewer checks means lower cost to the church.
As parents make payments to the school or for athletic activities through Online Giving, they realize how easy it is and they have now started using it for their weekly collection. Those giving online do not miss the weekly contributions when they set up their gift with the recurring weekly option. The yearly offering for a family giving online will increase as much as 30% (52 weeks of online giving vs. 40 weeks of checks when the family attends the Sunday service).

Many churchgoers have commented that the only checks they wrote in the past were to the church. They like the convenience of giving electronically and the church stands the benefit too as its weekly collections go up significantly. This is a true win-win situation.

Post written by Vijay Jeste, Online Giving Product Manager

Church Sharketing

2011-07-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Are there times when you feel good about your job?

The Lord tells us that He has placed us in the right place at the right time for His purpose.

I received God's gentle confirmation of His divine purpose yesterday while listening to Scott Vaughan's free webinar "Church Sharketing, Understanding the Formula for Successful Promotion", sponsored by my employer AmericanChurch, Inc.

Scott shared an information-packed hour with over 140 folks representing churches all over the country. If you missed the webinar, I'll tell you how you can get a CD. I am so proud to be a part of a company that is committed to churches' reaching their communication goals.

Sure, AmericanChurch would love to have the printing and website business of every church that participated in the webinar. We wouldn't be here otherwise. Yet, there's a greater mission of AmericanChurch - one that I am humbled to represent. By providing valuable information through webinars, our company displays that greater concern for churches that other companies often lack.

Now back to communication. Scott's four part formula for communication success is:

The right message
To the right audience
By the right method
At the right time

It seems simple enough, but it's the digging into the details of the formula that insures the results you are after. There is careful thought required at each level, and Scott's webinar helps planners and communicators sort out those thoughts to help make communication powerful and effective.

To receive a CD of Scott Vaughan's webinar "Church Sharketing, Understanding the Formula for Successful Promotion", click here and we will send it free of charge.

Be sure to check out www.americanchurch.com to register for other webinars and learn more about the products and services we offer to help your communication efforts.

Post written by Gina Schumer, Marketing and Communications Manager

No Pain All Gain Church Website

2011-06-14T06:47:00.000-07:00

A local pastor recently told a story about their church’s attempt to build a new church website. A well- intentioned member volunteered to “do the website” for the church. He offered to buy the domain name, create the site, build the pages and maintain the content. The pastor believed it would be a good way to get the church website up and running. And it was. Right up until that well- intentioned member left the church. The church was unable to retrieve the website knowledge and was out thousands of dollars in web expenses that now would be useless to the church.

Many church leaders tell a similar story, and even cringe a little when they hear the word “website”. How many church websites have fallen into the internet abyss because the church doesn’t have the resources or even know how to locate their own domain name? Based on our conversations with pastors and administrators, there are many websites that have suffered the same death. Painful, yes, but it is not a good reason to avoid a website.

In today’s world of technology, people expect to find your church on the internet – both those who are connected with the church and those who are seekers. They are looking for relevant and current information about services, ministries, outreach, etc. As an engaging church, you owe them a website that tells your story and keeps people updated on the pulse of your church. Are you feeling the pain again? Take a deep breath. The good news is that a relevant and compelling website is well within reach.

The Gain

Gone are the days of needing a programmer to design a site from scratch or create content in code. Although there are instances when a web professional is the answer, most churches can have a great site using web based content management software, such as Radius Web Tools.

Think of your web site as a new house that you and your family will furnish. The foundation is in and the framing is complete. All you need to do is decorate. So for your web site this means selecting a design, personalizing it and adding information about your church and activities.

Radius Web Tools provides the look and the function that makes it easy to maintain. The youth leader can upload photos and content of vacation bible school, while the church secretary can create the church e-newsletter, and a media person can add your podcast to the sermon page. All the while, you are in control, even if the contributors change, the website is intact and ready for fresh content.

With easy- to - use features that are geared for church communication, you can maintain a website that is always fresh and vibrant. Your church on the web will be a place for you to connect with your members and community and to educate members.

The folks at AmericanChurch, Inc. have plenty of information to share about creating impact through your church web site. We’re available to walk you through a demo so you can see just how easy Radius Web Tools can be.

Call us today at 1-800 - 446-3035 or visit us at www.americanchurch.com/webtools.axpx.

What's New!

2011-06-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

Radius Web Tools is one of ACI's newest product offerings designed with churches in mind to make websites easy. It is a powerful suite of web tools to manage your website, email accounts, calendars and so much more. It is so easy anyone can work with the content of Radius Web Tools. All you need is the internet and a computer! For more information or to see a live demo visit www.americanchurch.com.

ACI also offers Custom Creative Services. Our custom creative team will help you put your message into words that matter, give it a look that compels and create pieces that are concise and consistent. ACI will take care of everything from strategy to deployment. For more information click here.

ACI also added a new feature to our Online Giving System called "Quick Give". Quick Give is a feature that allows guests and members to give a onetime gift through your website. Quick Give is a great feature to use for event payments such as Summer Camp, Special Events, Mission Trips, Dinners and so much more. For more information on our Online Giving System and Quick Give click here to visit our website.

Where We're Going

2011-06-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

AmericanChurch, Inc. will be in San Antonio, TX on June 15th - 17th at the 2011 International Shelby Conference. Stop by our booth and say hello to ACI representatives, Deneen Mueller, Melony Ohalek and Gina Schumer. We would love to meet you and present our integrated approach to improving your contributions and communications.

July 1st - 3rd ACI will have representatives at the 2011 National Association of Church Business Administrators conference in National Harbor, MD. Stop by and see what is new! Representatives for ACI will be Deneen Mueller, Kim Deemer, Tom DeAngelo, Vijay Jeste and Terry Poplava.

Where We've Been

2011-06-07T07:03:00.000-07:00

Deneen & Kim at the OCEA Conference

In March ACI sponsored and exhibited at the 2011 Ohio Christian Education Association Conferece in Akron, Ohio. During this conference representatives from ACI presented two separate workshops. Friday morning Deneen Mueller, Senior Stewardship Consultant, presented a workshop on "An Integrated Approach to Stewardship" and Saturday morning Kim Deemer, Senior Account Consultant, presented a workshop on "Why Consider Electronic Giving".

Melony and Elsie at the Taste of
Faith Festival

AmericanChurch was busy in May! ACI participated in the Taste of Faith Festival in Youngstown, Ohio sponsored by the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches. Area churches shared a variety of food and recipes that showcased their culinary skills. ACI representative Melony Ohalek participated by sharing Chicken Francoise and Greek Medallions from Cathy's Catering. ACI also donated a blanket and bible package to the Chinese Auction. There were about twenty three churches/companies who shared food with the attendees. All proceeds benefited the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches in Youngstown, Ohio.

Melony Ohalek presenting at
the Ideas to Impact Conference

Later in May ACI was a sponsor and participant in the 2011 Ideas to Impact Conference by ACS Technologies. AmericanChurch, Inc. set up a booth at this show to exhibit our products and services. Representatives from ACI were Melony Ohalek, Karen Sfara, Tom Novosel and Gina Schumer. During this event Melony Ohalek gave a presentation on the services AmericanChurch currently offers.

Deneen helping members
of Bethel Lutheran Church

Later that month representatives from ACI went to Bethel Lutheran Church in Boardman, Ohio to help sign members up for the church's recently purchased Online Giving application. Deneen Mueller spoke to the congregation before each of the services to explain the benefits of using an Online Giving program. Deneen and Kim Deemer made themselves available to the church's members after each of the services to assist them in setting up their own Online Giving accounts.

Local Church Puts Offering Envelopes to Work

2011-05-10T07:46:00.000-07:00

The United Methodist Church, Canfield, OH has been a customer of AmericanChurch, Inc, since 1998. They use the Envelope Mail Plan and also purchase several offering envelopes to address special fund needs.

Larry Horock from The United Methodist Church, Canfield, OH uses Special Fund offering envelopes from AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) to their fullest potential, and even created his own design to help feed the hungry.

Several months ago, ACI developed the "In Memory Of" envelope (on Larry's suggestion) that allows members to give to the church in memory of a deceased loved one. Larry doesn't limit the use of the envelope for funeral services. He set up a "Memorial Fund Box" in an area of the church with envelopes on hand for people to use to commemorate their loved ones on Anniversaries, Birthdays or other times.

The new offering envelope and box have added thousands of dollars in church contributions.

To help secure needed funds for church improvements, Larry sets up a "Wish List" of church needs in the Spring and Fall. The "Improvement Funds Envelope" is inserted into members' mailed offering envelope sets during these times, and also distributed in the pews of the church.

This strategy works well for the church, as needs are communicated and the means of support are easily available to use during the Spring and Fall. Since including the "Improvement Funds Envelope" into mailed offering envelope sets, contributions have increased by thirty percent.

What about the special envelope to help the hungry? That's the "Chicken Challenge" campaign where area churches come together to put a "chicken in every pot". The custom offering envelope that Larry designed consistently brings in needed money for area food banks.

2011-03-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

Visit our website http://www.americanchurch.com/ for more information

Electronic Fund Transfer - Consider the Risk

2011-02-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

As more people catch onto the convenience of online banking, it’s natural that churches would offer a form of electronic giving as an option for members and guests.

It seems that an easy solution is to set up electronic funds transfer using the local bank. The church obtains the account information from the donor, along with the amount to be debited each month, and relays the information to the bank. The bank sets up transfers from a donor’s account into your bank account on a scheduled basis.

This process sounds simple, but caution – handling a donor’s sensitive account information can cause problems for your church. The fact is that there are many flaws with using EFT bank transfers beside the confidentiality issue. Below are some things to consider when comparing bank transfers with an online giving program offered from your web site.

AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) offers churches an Online Giving program that is easy, secure and convenient. The program is designed exclusively for churches, providing many features to help church administrators and finance people ease their work load. Most importantly, Online Giving helps churches meet the changing dynamics of how people choose to give, which results in increased contributions for the church.

For a complete demo, contact Online Giving specialist, Kim Deemer at 1-800-446-3035 or visit our web site at http://www.americanchurch.com/.

The Mom and Pop Church vs. Walmart

2011-02-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

What do many of today’s churches have in common with Wal Mart? According to J. Clif Christopher in his new book, Whose Offering Plate Is It? New Strategies for Financial Stewardship, “the church has found itself much like the Mom and Pop grocery that suddenly finds itself up against a big national chain” - Wal Mart.

Christopher refers to the increased number of nonprofits that are soliciting for people’s money, and in a way, are in competition with the church. Like Wal Mart, nonprofits have done the research, and have the necessary skills and marketing savvy to attract people. All the while, the church hasn’t been in the business of selling itself.

The difficult part, according to Christopher, is that ”donors have gotten spoiled by seeing what effective communication looks like and feels like.”

Christopher’s book suggests that simply communicating that there is a budget shortfall is no longer enough to gain support for the church. People are conditioned to see measurable results. In addition, they have many more choices for giving, including faith based organizations other than the local church.

The 20th annual study by Empty Tomb Inc. reaffirms the trend that church giving is down while donations to religious organizations overall increased.

“The 2008 data suggests it’s possible that fewer people are seeing churches as the primary conduit for meeting the larger need,” said Sylvia Ronsvalle, executive vice president of the nonprofit that released the Empty Tomb Study. The study, released this past October, analyzed data about U.S. church giving through 2008 from about one-third of U.S. churches.

This message is a sobering wake-up call for churches, and also an opportunity. With the problem identified, churches see trends of shifting motivation for giving, and must tailor the message accordingly. Leadership can and must focus on better communication first and foremost.

Some tips on improved communication include:

Focus on God’s ability. Pray for His guidance to reveal the larger need that your church will accomplish with support. Take the focus off of the current limitations and onto what can be accomplished. That is your goal and your message.
Make a plan and work the plan. It will serve as a deliberate road map. The plan should include the goal, the audience, the message tailored to the audience, the desired response, a time-line, and evaluation.
Say it, and then say it again. Effective communication doesn’t happen with one sermon, or one line in the weekly bulletin. It is communicating and repeating the message in every medium available to your church. Bulletins, offering envelopes, your web site - there are multiple places to share, and you need to use them all.
Make your message intentional, relevant and unique to your church. Your church isn’t a building, its people and relationships. An effective message is one that appeals to relationships and building the hearts of people rather than brick and mortar

Most churches aren’t “Wal Mart”, nor are they supposed to be big box marketers. Churches are as, if not more, valuable to God than any store. However, in today’s culture of information overload, churches must take a cue from effective marketing.

For more ideas on how to improve communications, contact AmericanChurch, Inc at 1-800-446-3035

ACI Employee Spotlight

2011-01-10T05:23:00.000-08:00

Senior sales consultant, Deneen Mueller finds that churches of all sizes and denominations share similar struggles and challenges. She believes in the effectiveness of the products and services that AmericanChurch provides to help overcome these obstacles.

“I get a lot of satisfaction from working with a church, discovering what it’s struggles are, and determining together how we can help to conquer them,” Deneen comments.

As a Senior Sales Representative, Deneen brings over eight years of experience serving the envelope and printing needs of churches across the country. Her goal is to find solutions to make it easy for people to support the church, which then helps the church attain its mission and goals.

Over the years, Deneen has seen many changes in church dynamics and believes that technology is the biggest transformation on the horizon that is affecting churches.

“As new generations move into administrative positions in churches, technology will be the norm. This fact will change the way churches operate, and will affect how they present themselves to people”, says Deneen. “I am happy that AmericanChurch is positioned to move ahead right along with them with our Online Giving application.”

When she is not visiting or speaking to churches, Deneen practices her passion for cooking. She is a regular food blogger and collects cookbooks and recipes of all kinds. Her new husband, Michael is the beneficiary of Deneen’s fine cooking.

“Last year was a huge year in my life”, Deneen says. “My only daughter went off the college and a month later, I surprised by family and friends by getting married and moving to another town.”

Register for Deneen’s free webinar, “Integrated Approach to Optimizing Stewardship”, scheduled for February 22^nd,2011. Register at http://www.americanchurch.com/.

Customer Spotlight

2011-01-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

Late November, ACI senior sales representative Karen Sfara dropped in on Lavinia Polatty. We caught her busily hand stuffing envelopes, yet Lavinia was pleased for the surprise visit. She has been the administrative financial assistant at First Baptist Church of Augusta, GA for the past 34 years, with no sign of slowing down.

Karen wanted to make sure that the church monthly mailed envelope plan supplied from ACI was going well, and if ACI might be of assistance with additional printing services. The mailing plan is going well, and Lavinia is a firm believer in the offering envelope mailing plan that her church uses. "Envelopes sent to the home are a valuable stewarship tool and gentle reminder to give" Lavinia says. "We have members who give who do not always come to church."

Karen and Lavinia talked about the new addition to the church underway and about some of the church’s many mission activities. One close to Lavinia’s heart is the church’s involvement with the Golden Harvest Food Bank. First Baptist of Augusta purchases food from the distribution center then distributes the food through their Benevolence Program. Lavinia commented on the growing number of people in need of food within the church vicinity.

It was a pleasure to meet with Lavinia at First Baptist Church of Augusta. Her service to the church exemplifies the church mission, which is “to love the Lord and to share his love with the community and the world.”

More Churches Discover the Benefits of Online Giving

2011-01-10T04:53:00.000-08:00

More churches are using Online Giving, an electronic giving solution from AmericanChurch. The web based application is easy to use, secure and has proven itself to be a well received giving option by church givers.

Due to the increased interest in Online Giving, Kim Deemer has been names Online Giving specialist. “I like to embrace technology. Online Giving is the way of the future for churches, and I am fortunate to be in a position to help them use technology to help grow and sustain the church,” comments Kim.

There are many advantages and benefits to both the giver and administrator of Online Giving. The giver can make his offering anytime, anywhere conveniently from his computer. He can select the funds he wishes to support, either one-time or on a recurring basis. Access to contribution records in easily attainable with just the click of a button. The giver is assured that his financial information not being compromised or viewed by others.

With Online Giving, contributions are more consistent with the use of recurring gifts, allowing church administration to effectively budget and forecast. Administrators can set up an unlimited number of funds, both on-going and time sensitive. The system easily integrates with most software programs. There are numerous reports available at any time, including a statement of contributions for tax purposes.

These are just a few of the many reasons that churches are implementing the ACI Online Giving application into their church offering program. To educate your church leadership team, ACI representative, Kim Deemer or your sales representatives are available to host a free online demonstration of the easy-to-use program at your convenience. Call her at 1-800-446-3035 for additional information or visit our website at http://www.americanchurch.com/.

ACI Developes New Special Offering Envelopes

2011-01-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

As a leader in church offering envelopes, AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) continually seeks ways to help churches improve contribution levels through their offering envelope programs.

Often, a fresh new offering envelope design will spark renewed interest and improve contributions.

ACI recently developed ten new Special Offering envelope designs based on feedback we received from our customers and representatives. Four of the new Special Offering Envelopes are seasonal – Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. Using all of these can stimulate giving each quarter of the year. The six other new designs are fresh and colorful, and can relate to a variety of church goals.

The new Special Offering envelopes can be printed with a fund name and your church information on the flap side. They can be inserted into box sets, inserted into your envelope mail plan or they can be purchased in bulk for your pews or distribution of your choice.

The new Special Offering envelopes can be purchased from our website www.americanchurch.com or call your representative for details at 1-800-446-3035.

Merry Christmas from AmericanChurch

2010-12-22T11:23:00.001-08:00

AmericanChurch, Inc. would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

Churches Feel Pain of Economy

2010-12-22T11:22:00.000-08:00

Is There Help?

A recent USA Today article addressed statistics from LifeWay Research indicating that the economic health of churches is suffering. The article sites decisions to of many churches to lay off staff members, put off capital projects and cut programs. All the while, members and neighbors of congregations are increasingly requesting help for their basic needs.

Dropping contributions are bad enough, but a restriction on the level of care that churches are able to give to others affects the mission of many congregations.

It might help for church leaders to take a cue from the business environment. When a business faces dwindling revenue, management often turns to new marketing strategies to help revive the company. Often, there is a cost involved with this kind of program, but a well thought out plan will pay for itself in revenue.

Can churches benefit from this business model? When faced with less money, churches sometimes decide to cut their envelope program; the very tool used to gather needed tithes and offerings. Rather than cut it out, it might be beneficial to evaluate the envelope program and develop ways to make it a stronger, more enticing marketing tool.

Statistics indicate that people are inclined to support ministries that directly help people in need. Is your church involved in a local food ministry? You can keep this ministry alive by providing members and guests with Special Offering Envelopes that address this need directly. The envelope can be customized to address one or many ministry needs of the church.

Include your ministries as part of a larger plan to consistently inform people of how your church meets the needs of people around it. A church newsletter can report on contributions made, and show specifically how the membership’s generosity serves to help people and spread the Good News of Jesus.

These tough economic times can be the best time to improve communication and work toward sustained giving from members and guests of your church. Isn’t it in the valley, rather than on the mountaintop, where we can best see our way up?

Your friends at AmericanChurch, Inc. are here to help your church through difficult times and reach your full ministry potential. We offer solutions in giving, in communication and in developing a vibrant church community. Tell us your needs and your struggles so that together, we can help you develop a plan that serves your church and those you serve.

To read the article in USAToday click here.

This Holiday Season AmericanChurch Gives Back

2010-12-15T10:48:00.000-08:00

Each year during the Christmas season AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) has a giving tree to help make someone’s holiday a little brighter and to give back to our community. This year the organization ACI is giving back to is Someplace Safe, Inc. in Warren, OH, which will provide the gifts to women and children of domestic violence. ACI received a list of women and children and their Christmas wishes. Each wish was placed on a gift tag and ACI employees choose the tags off of the “giving tree”. The employee then had 2 weeks to shop for their gift, wrap the present and turn it into the HR department. All gifts will be delivered to Someplace Safe, Inc before Christmas. Thanks ACI employees for giving back to your community!

Can Your Offering Envelope Use A Facelift?

2010-12-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

Your church offering envelope is so much more than an envelope…it’s your billboard.

Most churches do not think of their offering envelope as a communication tool. Yet, the offering envelope is one of the biggest message boards a church can use. The image below is a “dissection” of an offering envelope to give you some ideas on how to get the most effective use out of your envelope.

A colorful or visually attractive envelope draws the eyes attention. This gets the member looking at the envelope where your message and fund information is displayed.

Your church logo should be on everything you do for both print and digital communications. Following this rule will insure that anytime a person sees just that logo or design they will automatically know that piece belongs to your church.

It is very important to convey a clear, concise stewardship message. What is the mission of the church? If you ask members what the church’s mission or message is, many will not know. Putting your message on your envelope helps communicate to the member exactly what the message and mission is for the church. They will be more likely to give when they can relate to what it is your church is all about.

Placing the members names and address on the envelope relates attachment to the church and helps convey the message that they are responsible to support it. On Monday mornings, counters will appreciate this information for recording. The information for that member who is giving that gift is right in front of them.

Giving designation is probably the most important piece of information you can put on your envelope. A lot of people don’t know what to give or where. Placing it right in front of them tells them the exact needs of that church. It also helps a giver to choose a fund that they care about, which often will result in increased giving.

Including your church name and contact information on your envelope seems obvious; but it’s important that it is displayed properly with clear and concise contact information. Your name is your church, and the envelope carries the funds that keep the church going. When guests come, they may take en envelope home to send an offering later. Having your name and contact information front and center will make this process easier for them.

When was the last time you analyzed the design of your offering envelope? Can you see where it could use a face lift or be improved?

The experts at AmericanChurch, Inc. can help you improve your offering envelope. Just ask…there’s no charge for the face lift that can make it strong, vibrant and deliver support for your church.

http://www.americanchurch.com/

Increase and Encourage Your Volunteers

2010-11-23T09:48:00.000-08:00

One problem churches face today is how to engage more volunteers in their programs. People tend to think because they are not directly asked to do something, the church does not need help or someone else will volunteer. This mindset can create some issues for the church leaving a shortage of volunteers for the nursery on Sundays, outreach programs, missions, etc. The list can go on and on. How do we create a sense of community and increase our volunteers? Research shows not only does a volunteer serve their community but their personal faith is affected also. Even though you are volunteering to help someone else, most volunteers also need to feel a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in their ministry in order to continue volunteering. If the church does not provide this sense of fulfillment in the form of challenge, encouragement, support and opportunities most volunteers will not return to the mission.

The following is an excerpt from an article I recently read on this very topic.

Yet in spite of the confirmed spiritual benefits accrued through faithful service, volunteers may find themselves feeling unchallenged and unfulfilled by their work in the community. Strengthening the faith-life of volunteers should be an important focus for congregational leaders, not only because service is such an integral component of the Christian lifestyle, but also because community needs are great, and volunteers are consistently in high demand. Here are some steps church leaders can take to revitalize their congregants' commitment to serve, and to strengthen the faith-life of volunteers at the same time.

Challenge members to get involved in community ministry as a necessary outgrowth of the Christian faith, then provide the means for them to respond to your challenge. Offer mission opportunities through the congregation itself, and seek out opportunities for volunteers in public, private, faith-based and secular venues. Consider programs that require once-daily volunteers as well as once-monthly volunteers, so that even members who have very little time to donate can get involved in volunteer work.
Work on moving members from short-term volunteer ventures to long-term commitment. Many congregations literally move their members, sending them on long-distance mission trips during which participants can gain a new appreciation of the positive impact made in people's lives because of their efforts. But opportunities for joyful service exist close to home, too. Volunteers who thrive in distant missions settings may be inspired to get involved in similar projects locally.
Define volunteer jobs in ways that emphasize the relational aspect of volunteering. Services such as delivering meals weekly to a regular set of people, or tutoring the same child over a period of time, give volunteers the chance to develop personal bonds with other people. The challenges and rewards involved with personal relationships are far more significant for the faith formation of volunteers than non-relational service.
Set the standard by setting an example: get personally involved in community service. Congregational leaders who are involved and visible in community ministries will be better equipped to connect the church's services with the community's needs.
Celebrate and educate volunteers. Pray for upcoming volunteer events, and plan time afterward for the volunteers to share and reflect upon their experiences. Consider establishing a prayer group or Bible study to help support volunteers through potentially difficult experiences in their community work. Use the group time to examine the social and economic factors that create the problems that volunteers are called upon to alleviate. Encourage volunteers to find ways to respond to systemic problems as well as to the impact of such problems on the lives of individuals.
Encourage service for service's sake, and discourage the congregation from equating success as a volunteer with solving the community's problems. Remind volunteers that volunteering is an act of Christian discipleship, an opportunity to learn, to befriend and to support, and that the burden of changing lives doesn't rest on them personally, but on God.

With the right balance of encouragement, opportunity, challenge and support, church leaders can lead their congregations toward a renewed commitment to serving their communities and renewing their faith through community service.

Excerpt taken from "Research Briefs from Related Projects Connecting Faith and Service," Baylor University School of Social Work and partners

Mt. Olive Lutheran Church's Thoughts on ACI

2010-11-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Madison, WI has been an AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) Monthly Mail customer for over eight years. Parish Administrator Monica Hodgson has seen first-hand the benefits of monthly mail over annual box sets.

“Before we came on board with monthly mail, we ordered box sets to try to see who in our membership wasn’t attending church. We thought they were the ones who wouldn’t pick up their boxes, “comments Monica. “Not only did those envelopes not get picked up, but regular attendees didn’t pick up theirs either.”

That’s when the church decided to use the convenience of mailed envelopes. Monica notes other benefits as well. “We find that new members become connected to the church much more quickly. The envelopes sent to their home sends the message that they are a welcome part of the church”, notes Monica.

Monica credits ACI Senior Customer Service Representative Barb Ambrose as the main source of her satisfaction ACI’s service.

“It is always a pleasure to make contact with Barb regarding our church account. She is so pleasant to visit with and exhibits a comfortable communication style. I feel like we are good friends even though we have never met. Her dependability for a quick, complete explanation along with great service when I confront her with a complication is much appreciated.”

5 More Tips from Jason Minich

2010-10-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

We know you’re anxiously awaiting the last 5 fitness tips offered by fitness expert Jason Minich. (See previous post). We’re posting them here along with Jason’s favorite Scripture.

"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." - Proverbs 27:17

If you haven’t seen them yet, we post three weekly one hour fitness videos that you can follow directly from our website, www.americanchurch.com. Thanks to Jason and a team of dedicated Christian men, these videos are produced and offered free of charge. We hope you or members of your church are enjoying them as you tone up.

Now for those final five tips that Jason offers for a better body.

#6 - Eat Food, Not Products:
Our bodies were designed to eat, digest, absorb and utilize food. The problem lies in the fact that most of us are completely confused on what food actually is. What is food? Is corn food? What about corn chips? Is a pork chop food? What about a hot dog that contains pork? Food that will give your body the nutrients it needs as well as allow you r body to digest and absorb properly is very hard to find in a box or a can. If you want to get your body functioning well and are looking for that beach body, then eat foods that are as close to their natural source as possible! When trying to choose what to eat, the question to ask is "where did it come from?" The best choices are the ones that have an easy answer to that question. "It came from the ground!" "It came from a tree!" "It's a fish from the river!" The worst answers would be something along the lines of, "well, this ingredient came from a food processing plant, this one came from a chemical plant, this one...well I'm not really sure what this one is, but this one is a berry extract!" So often today, we are given products to eat and are told they are food. Don't believe it. Not only are they stripped of nutrients, but your body usually doesn't have to work very hard to digest it. Then, you are missing out on a significant amount of calorie burning that would come from digesting real food. Processed, refined food is basically pre-digested; which means that it can absorb very quickly which can quickly cause body fat storage.

#7 - Eat Lean Protein at Each Meal
Your body utilizes protein for countless purposes in the body. Plus, protein is used to rebuild and repair muscle tissue. Muscle is the active tissue in your body. It is what "burns" body fat. The only location in your body where body fat is broken down and converted into energy is inside of each muscle cell. Thus, to lose body fat, you must optimize the muscle tissue on your body. In order to do this, you need protein. Also the act of digesting protein plays a large role in your daily caloric burn rate. Your body has to work hard to digest protein. Foods like eggs, chicken, turkey, buffalo, ostrich, salmon, shrimp and lean beef are an important part of improving your metabolism. Try to avoid commercially raised livestock as much as possible. Free range meat and wild caught fish are much better choices.

#8 - Eat Every 3 hours
If you are eating lean protein and good, quality carbs about every 3 hours throughout the day, then your body will incinerate body fat at a high level. I know that this sounds contradictory to almost every diet and weight loss center claim. However, if diets and caloric deprivation worked, then there would be no such thing as an obesity epidemic. Diets don't work. Proper exercise and feeding the body what it needs DOES. Think of your metabolism as a fire burning inside of you. You need to feed the fire to get it to burn hot! If you want to know the real effects that caloric deprivation has on the body, then stay tuned for my article in the August newsletter.

I suggest that, regardless of the time of day, you should seek out and be prepared for a meal every 3 hours that consists of visually equal serving sizes of lean protein, a starchy carb, and a fibrous carb.

#9 - Exercise with Resistance
There are many ways to exercise and challenge the body. Most of them are great. There is no one video, exercise machine, or program that is in the universal answer for everybody. However, in order to lose body fat, resistance exercise must be included at some level. The resistance can come from weights, rubber bands, machines, a wheelbarrow full of rocks, or in some cases even your own body weight. Whatever the source, you need to challenge your muscles. This is key. The fear of "bulking up" has prevented many people from realizing their body dreams because they have avoided strength training. I suggest weights first, cardio immediately after. Modern technology and conveniences have caused our population to challenge their bodies much less than ever before. We simply pick-up, carry, and lift much less than we ever did before. As a result, many of us are simply not used to challenging the body. The resulting weakness and less muscle development leads to lower metabolism, higher fat accumulation, and low energy levels. If you want to lose fat, then lift weights (just do it properly...hint...we would be happy to show you how).

#10 - The Magic Bullet Only Shoots You in the Foot
Bottom line, there is no magic bullet. If there was, believe me, I would tell you! Starving yourself, wrapping yourself in a thermal body wrap, taking a pill, getting an injection, drinking a shake, electrocuting yourself, rubbing a cream on your skin, cleansing yourself, baking yourself in a sauna, and vibrating belts are examples of "Magic Bullets". They DO NOT WORK. So stop wasting your time and money on them. Stop falling for them. Ignore them. Don't give them the time of day. Stop grasping at straws and start exercising, feeding yourself properly, and stick to it! Don't stop!

-Jason Minich is the owner of Catalyst Fitness in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Jason is also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer with extensive training in the human metabolism and fat loss. In 2009, Jason was voted as a Top 10 finalist for Trainer of the Year out of professionals from the United States and Canada.

A Fresh Persepective on the Envelope Mailing Program

2010-10-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

It took Shirley Best, Business Administrator of State Street Baptist Church in Cayce, SC a lot of effort to convince the leadership of the church to think “out of the box” (literally). The church is almost 100 years old with a “seasoned” membership a bit resistant to change.

But, once they agreed to try monthly mailed envelopes over box sets, they haven’t looked back. “We don’t have to deal with envelopes. AmericanChurch handles everything, and with very few problems,” says Shirley.

AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) isn’t the first supplier of a monthly mail plan that the church has used. But according to Shirley, they are the best.

“Right off the bat, ACI saves us close to $100 a month. Their price is about half the price of we were charged before for the same amount of mailed sets,” Shirley says. “In addition, we now have fewer complaints, and we love the fact that ACI will send out temporary envelopes immediately to new or visiting people who request them. When people say they want envelopes, you need to make sure they get them right away.”

Shirley also feels that her relationship with ACI customer service representative Lori McIntyre is just as important as getting her envelopes out in time. “It is helpful to be able to relate to the same person every time I call. Lori is a real professional. She remembers the details of our church account. Plus, when I call her I feel like I’m calling a friend,” comments Shirley.

ACI takes pride in their customer service and sales team. Every church is assigned a representative that takes care of them throughout the relationship. This promotes consistency and a superior level of customer service.

Jason Minich Fitness Videos

2010-10-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

Jason Minich, owner of Catalyst Fitness in Ft. Wayne, IN. collaborates with four other Christian friends to develop an ongoing series of fitness videos for distribution to churches.

“I believe that the health and fitness of each individual within a church body reflects upon the health and fitness of the church as a whole,” says Jason.

We, at AmericanChurch, Inc (ACI) applaud Jason and his team for their dedication to this unique ministry, and post the weekly videos on our website www.americanchurch.com.

Following are the first five of ten tips that Jason offers for a better body. Check them out, then put on your workout shoes, open the video and get moving.

#1 Get Moving:
Focus and commitment are the number 1 prerequisite if you would like to change your body. Ask yourself, "If you could achieve anything with your body and you got everything you wanted physically, what would be different?" Honestly folks, what would that look like? How would it feel? If this is truly what you want for yourself physically, then what is stopping you from wholeheartedly committing to yourself? I suggest you write it down. Put it on paper. Let's stop dreaming and start achieving!

#2 Remind Yourself Daily:
You know as well as I do that we all have moments of weakness. We are human after all! Committing to a goal one day will not feel or look the same the next day. If you want to lose body fat, remind yourself daily about your goal. If you are a visual person, take a picture of yourself and hang it where you will see it every day. Or maybe a picture of what you want to look like will be better for you. Either way, at the beginning of the day, tell yourself exactly how the day will unfold in terms of physical activity and your eating. Otherwise, the day will get away from you and decisions will be made on the fly...and very often, those type of decisions are not the best.

#3 Drink Water:Fat "burning" is affected by how well you are hydrated. Water is the single most important thing that you need to ingest. Every moment, a countless number of chemical reactions are taking place in your body. For each one, water is needed. Without the proper amounts of water, these reactions become inefficient. This can drain you of energy, cause your body to function poorly, lead to sickness and your body may go into a water retention mode. Plus, dehydration can slow your metabolism (your body's calorie burning processes) by nearly half of what it would be otherwise. A good, quick calculation would be to multiply your body weight (lbs) by 0.5. This number would be the minimum amount of ounces of water per day that you should intake.

#4 Exercise Vigorously:I should probably clarify this a little bit. What is vigorous for me may not be the same for you and vice-versa. You should exercise as vigorously as you can more days per week than you are not. Some days, this could be a longer duration workout. Other days, it may only be a 15 minute mini-workout. Either way, when you choose to do it, challenge yourself. There are people that I know who will be greatly challenged by standing up and down out of a chair 10 times and then walking a lap around the room. If that is you, so be it...but do it daily until it becomes easier. Then, increase the challenge. Others that I know can exercise much harder than that for 15 minutes and find a quick, beneficial workout that will burn a bunch of calories. Either way, challenge yourself to improve. If you want your body to change, you have to make it change! There are very few excuses for not being able to find time for a workout. Which brings me to....

#5 Be Consistent!This could quite possibly be the most important bit of fitness advice that you will ever hear. Those who are the most consistent are the most successful. Exercise is not an "only when it is convenient" thing. The same applies when it comes to making good eating choices. Exercise and eating properly are not something that can be effective when approached with an "all-or-nothing sprint to the goal" mentality. Be the tortoise and not the hare. Your beach body can come faster than you think when you adopt this approach. However, progress is progress no matter how fast it comes. When using the correct methods, the only thing that will stop you from reaching your goal is quitting! The philosopher Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then is not an act but a habit." I agree.

Visit our blog next week for the next five tips and more information on Jason Minich and his team.

Crop Hunger Walk

2010-10-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

What is a Crop Hunger Walk? The answer is simple: people walking to take a stand against hunger worldwide. The first Crop Hunger Walk was organized by Church World Service in 1969. Since then there have been over 2,000 communities across the US joining in more than 1,600 Crop Walks. The funds raised from these various Crop Walks will assist people in need around the world. CROP Hunger Walks help to provide food and water, as well as resources that empower people to meet their own needs.

This year AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) is participating in the Crop Hunger Walk in the Mahoning Valley sponsored by the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches (http://www.mvaconline.org/) on Sunday October 10^th. To help raise funds to support the ACI team Heidi Janis, an ACI Sales Representative, has organized a variety of activities.

There has been a week long bake sale. Employees donated baked goods that other employees purchased in support of the Crop Walk. Another fundraiser was a fruit/health food sale in which employees donated fresh fruit, orange juice, and yogurt. On Wednesday, ACI employees enjoyed a Hot Dog sale at lunch, which included a jumbo hot dog with chips for only One Dollar. All of the items were donated by employees, with all proceeds going to support the Crop Hunger Walk. At the time of this post, ACI has raised $192 with one more day to go.

To find a Crop Hunger Walk in your area visit: www.cropwalk.org and see how you can get involved. If you are participating in a Crop Hunger Walk already leave a comment below, we would love to hear your stories.

ACI Moves Forward for Churches

2010-10-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

There’s a buzz of business activity taking place along McClurg Road in Boardman. Most people know about the Budweiser Distribution Center and the new Summer Garden Food Manufacturing plant. Nestled right in between these buildings is a business that manufactures and distributes a significant amount of church offering envelopes, and has been doing so since the early 1900’s. Last year American Church Inc. (ACI) manufactured over 1.8 million envelopes to be distributed to churches and organizations nationwide.

AmericanChurch, Inc. provides stewardship solutions to churches and religious organizations throughout the United States. Founded in 1903 AmericanChurch, Inc. has grown into a leading supplier of offering envelopes, printed communications and mailing services.

The company established it roots as American Paper Products Company (APPCO) in 1915 in East Liverpool, Ohio. Founders R. L. Cawood, Baird Hunsicker and J. K. Moffal ‘s original plan was to carve out part of the church offertory envelope market and then expand into paper milk bottles and other product lines. However, the church envelope business expanded very rapidly, and the milk bottle idea went away quickly.

The company remained under the umbrella of American Paper Group as Postal Church Service until 1994 when AmericanChurch, Inc. was formed by combining Postal Church Service with the Duplex Envelope Company of Richmond, Virginia. By then, the company had expanded heavily into direct mail (sending offering envelopes directly to member’s homes) as well as other product lines such as stationery and business cards.

In 2003, Our Sunday Visitor, Inc., a Catholic, not-for-profit producer of parish offering envelopes acquired the assets of American Paper Group, Inc. and is currently the parent company of AmericanChurch, Inc.

“We are excited to be a part of AmericanChurch, Inc. and to use our combined resources to benefit churches,” comments Kyle Hamilton, president of Our Sunday Visitor’s Offertory Solutions Division. “We made a solid investment in Youngstown by acquiring the building on McClurg Road.

Capital investments into the facility have been over $900,000 over the past few years. Also this past year, the company brought in Tony Tarantino as Plant Manager. Tony was plant manager for Gorant Candies for over 10 years, and see’s ACI’s future as bright.

“We are a manufacturer, a mailing house and printer. Doing my part to make those functions work together at a profit is both challenging and rewarding,” comments Tarantino.

ACI employs 67 people locally. Customer service and sales representatives talk to thousands of church customers per day helping them increase contributions, support ministries and grow congregations. In today’s economy, as many churches are struggling financially, ACI offers programs to help maintain giving levels. One of the most effective programs is their Mailing Program, in which ACI makes offering envelope sets that are sent out to members’ homes on a regular basis. Last year, close to six million sets were mailed out to people all over the country.

Speaking of lots of mail, ACI recently implemented the new Intelligent Mail Bar Code system, the newest technology from the postal service to improve deliver-ability and increase overall efficiency. Customers receive the lowest possible postage rates with the change, which will be mandatory in 2011.

Another area of growth for ACI that speaks to our changing world is an easy-to-use Online Giving application. More and more churches are implementing this electronic giving option to promote consistent giving and relieve administrative duties of church staff.

Marketing, sales and customer service director of ACI, Terry Poplava, understands that churches today need more than just offering envelopes. “We are in the business of helping churches make it easy for their members to make financial gifts to their church. Over the past 18 months, we have introduces a number of products and services in addition to offering envelopes which we concert, print and mail.”

ACI serves over 18,000 churches nationwide of all sizes and denominations and continue to adapt their products and services to help churches reach all of their constituents. But the bread and butter of ACI remains the church envelope. Each year, ACI recycles approximately 264,000 pounds of scrap paper each year. That's about 132 tons of paper that doesn't go to a landfill.

The "M" Word Is Not A Dirty Word

2010-09-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

I have an exciting job here at American Church, Inc. Every day, I learn a little more each day about how churches are doing across the country. I talk to many kind folks in Arkansas and Tennessee. No sooner do I pick up the southern drawl, I find myself speaking to a Massachusetts church with an entirely different accent – both in speech and life.

Yes, churches are as different from each other in so many ways; yet in many ways they are so much the same. Many churches I talk to are struggling with their membership. Giving is on the decline, and they are focused mostly on making ends meet.

But back to my exciting position here at ACI. I have the privilege of helping churches turn things around. First, it’s a way of communicating with members and friends that stimulates participation and a buy in of what’s going on inside the doors of the church. If there was a “churchy” word for marketing, that’s what I’m talking about.

Sure, you can purchase a simple envelope and place it in the pew. But, ask yourself, “How is the envelope working for me? What can I do to make that simple envelope more effective in its desired outcome of securing needed funds for the church?”

Are you ready to make it work? Think of the envelope as a billboard. Make it colorful. Tell your story and your need to get something to go inside that envelope. This isn’t the time to be bashful. Most people want to give – they just want to give to “something” other than next month’s gas bill.

Is your “billboard” (envelope) getting crowded? We can help. ACI offers a remittance envelope that can handle 4 sides of copy and a credit card number that’s totally hidden by a full flap.

But, what if people don’t see that fancy envelope buried behind the Hymnal or the Bible in the pew? Here’s a solution. Send your envelopes directly to member’s homes. Now you are really getting somewhere. There are so many reasons to consider this solution. First, people are reminded of your church’s needs on a regular basis. Second, you can send along other information that tells your story (most of the time for the same postage). Plus, you get the added bonus of an up-to-date, clean as a whistle mailing list, compliments of ACI.

Let’s go one more step and set up additional regular mailed communication with your members to go a little deeper into your unique message. Send a card, a letter, a statement of how you’re doing financially – anything you choose. ACI can print and mail virtually anything you want at a very low cost.

Now, we are doing that church word for marketing. Can you take one more solution? I believe you can, especially because you are probably reading this message on a computer. Maybe you guessed it. Online Giving.

If you aren’t already doing it, you will soon. Why not be ahead of the curve and add ACI Online Giving to a giving option for members and friends right from your church website. To reach people with your message, you have to use the right tools. The newest tool is electronic, and really should have it in your toolbox. Sound expensive? It’s not. Sound complicated? It’s easy.

Helping you make giving and communication easy and affordable is what I’m here for. In fact, there’s a whole team of us here at ACI with your best interest at heart, your stewardship and communication. Call us today, 1-800-446-3035!

Post written by Gina Schumer, Senior Sales and Marketing Representative

Church Forward Event Recap

2010-09-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI) sponsored the first “Church Forward” event Wednesday, September 14^th at Old North Church in Canfield, Ohio. Representatives from over 10 churches attended the morning workshop and luncheon.

Churches received valuable information on various topics including giving, web presence, resources available from the local Chamber of Commerce, stewardship solutions and cooperative solutions through church associations.

The response was exciting and invigorating. Church representatives took away information that they plan on implementing to strengthen their church. Many ACI representatives were on hand to encourage them, answer questions, and show that ACI cares about the needs of today’s churches.

The success of Church Forward means that ACI will reach out with similar events in other areas of the country soon.

Below are a few pictures from the event:

Community Bible Study

2010-09-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

In the early 1970’s, a group of women began to pray that the Lord would provide many effective Bible Studies in the Washington, DC area. Shortly after, the first Community Bible Study began in Bethesda Maryland. Fast forward to 2010. There are over 40,000 people involved in CBC in the United States and abroad.

I became involved with CBS 12 years ago in Youngstown, Ohio. The weekly studies and group time keep me in the Word. I love the fact that the class isn’t connected to any denomination, but includes people from many different churches. We all come together to study God’s Word and take from it exactly what He wants to tell us.

CBS is now helping me with my current job as I interact with churches from many different denominations about their giving, printing and communication needs.

For me the CBS Mission Statement says it all. "To make disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ in our communities through caring, in-depth Bible study, available to all."

Classes start in September, and run through the school year. To see if there is a CBS in your area, visit http://www.communitybiblestudy.org/

Post written by: Gina Schumer, ACI Marketing and Sales Representative

Pride and Community

2010-09-03T05:04:00.000-07:00

First Baptist Church of Amarillo, TX has a lot of pride in the city and their community. The church sits on one of the main thoroughfares to downtown Amarillo, so it’s one of the first buildings you see as you approach the city. The city is in the midst of a major downtown revitalization and First Baptist Church is using this time to do its own renovations. The church’s focus includes the local community and international outreach. Dr. Howard Batson, pastor of FBC, participates on the revitalization board for Amarillo. He has also stewarded FBC to build a vibrant community with strong programs that are reinforced regularly across their communication materials. Their message and branding reflects their presence in Amarillo and their outreach programs in their marketing materials and even their offering envelopes.

The church is beautiful and inspiring. They moved the original structure onto the current campus and have preserved it. The first picture is that original structure. The second picture is the newly renovated FBC Amarillo.

First Baptist Church of Amarillo – Original Building

First Baptist Church of Amarillo – Current Building

For more information on the exciting things happening at First Baptist Church of Amarillo, TX visit their website: http://www.fbc-amarillo.org/.

Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church uses a complete giving solution from ACI

2010-08-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA, serves a community of more than 12,600 members from two locations. Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church strives to achieve its vision of being “A place where people encounter God.” He’s in touch with the needs of his congregation and the surrounding communities.

The Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church community is committed to deterring youth violence and creating a positive impact in the local community and surrounding area. They achieve this through Christ-centered transformation and a focus on evangelization and interpersonal relationships.

The community uses many tools to develop and maintain relationships and to sustain contributions. For many years they have used offering envelopes delivered quarterly to member households for contributions. As part of their solution to make it easy to participate in the community, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church has added a Web-based contribution solution so members can choose how they want to give: either through their envelopes or online.

American Church, Inc. (ACI) provides Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church with a full solution for contributions. Barb Ambrose, ACI senior account consultant, has been working with the church for more than five years. “The church looks for ways to serve its members,” she explains. “This church is up-to-speed with technology and Online Giving was the ideal addition to their current envelope program.”

Anita Coleman, database administrator, says Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church implemented electronic contributions using PayPal, but had difficulty with the report process. “When Barb explained that American Church had an online giving solution, we jumped at the opportunity to investigate it,” she says.

The transition from PayPal to Online Giving from AmericanChurch was surprisingly seamless. “Online Giving is revolutionary,” Coleman says. “Members love the option to give online and set up giving on their terms.”

People expect change to be difficult, but Coleman says that as soon as members saw how easy Online Giving is to set up, the compliments started coming in. It’s important to be able to offer members giving options, Coleman notes. And giving electronically lets them have the opportunity to give when they are out-of-town or on vacation. “Our member can listen to Senior Pastor Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller’s sermons online and contribute even when they are away,” she adds.

Currently, more than 700 church members are using Online Giving. And if all 12,000-plus members wanted to use it, Ambrose says the program is flexible enough. “There is no limit to the number of users or to the number of funds members can donate to,” she adds. In addition, it’s completely customizable, a feature Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church appreciates.

“We love American Church. They treat us like we’re their only customer. They are so helpful. Every need I’ve ever presented to Barb, she’s had a solution,” Coleman explains. “It’s great that she understands the urgency of everything done in a church setting.

“There is value in simplicity,” Coleman adds. “Our members use Online Giving and any questions they have are answered immediately. American Church Online Giving is simple, and that makes it extremely user friendly.”

The best thing about Online Giving, however, is that members and the church office staff are able pull reports or set-up funds. “All of us are excited about being in control of our individual profiles and contributions, as well as the ability to download a statement whenever we want or need one. It’s a win-win situation,” Coleman says.

ACI's Networking Leads to a Workshop - Church Forward

2010-08-20T05:17:00.000-07:00

The idea to hold an event to help church leaders and business administrators move their churches into the 21st century came about after being a vendor at the 2010 OCEA (Ohio Christian Education Association) conference in March of 2010. Upon returning from this show, Heidi Janis, a regional stewardship consultant for AmericanChurch, Inc. (ACI), told the group at ACI about two companies she met at the show and the idea to put together this workshop came to life. Church Forward would be created and held on September 15, 2010 at Old North Church in Canfield, OH.

One neighbor in the trade show area was In The Round Technology Group. Through talking and getting to know each other we realized we could be a real asset to each other. Throughout the rest of the show, anytime In The Round Technology Group set a church up with a website they would bring them to ACI’s booth to get more information on our Online Giving program. We recognized that the topics of church web sites and our web based Online Giving program could build on each other. In The Round Design Group is a strategic communication company that integrates the creative arts and emerging technologies to innovate highly effective interactive media. Josh Harris, president of In The Round Technology Group, will be speaking on “the importance of digital media and technology 101” at our upcoming event Church Forward on September 15.

Neil Orchard, River Tree Consulting, was also a vendor at the OCEA show in Akron. He saw our information and felt there would be a good connection there. His consulting firm, River Tree Consulting provides stewardship consulting for churches. He also has developed an offering, called “Linear Giving” that helps churches create a strategic financial plan based on engaging church members in the purpose of the plan. The products and services of ACI are great tools that help churches along the path to achieving their goals. Neil then contacted ACI and an alliance was formed. With over 31 years of experience in the ministry, Neil has a vast knowledge of the needs and struggles of the church and how to help meet those needs. Neil will be speaking on “Expanding the vision of the church and deepening its resources” at our upcoming event Church Forward on September 15.

For more information on ACI’s Church Forward event visit:
www.americanchurch.com/events

For more information on In The Round Technology Group visit:
http://www.radiusforchurches.com/

For more information on River Tree Consulting visit:
http://www.rivertreestewardship.com/

AmericanChurch, Inc., offers innovative solutions to churches facing challenges

2010-08-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

As the first decade of the new millennium ends, churches are facing the challenges of a lingering economic recession, the decline of the family and, in some areas, declining membership. With millions of members in the U.S. alone, what can the many Protestant denominations do to tackle the issues?

One company's mission is to assist the churches in overcoming many of the obstacles it faces today. AmericanChurch, Inc., (ACI) has been working with churches and non-profit organizations for nearly a century to solve the concerns of the faithful so the church can remain a vital part of church life and community strength. This Midwest company has weathered many changes to become one of the largest providers of innovative solutions designed to enhance giving, improve communication and create vibrant church communities.
Because ACI product and service offerings combine the use of technology with envelope and communications programs, small and large churches are able to adapt them to their specific needs.

According to Terry Poplava, ACI director of marketing and sales, the sales and customer service staff are in touch with what churches and their leadership need to be successful. "We work closely with our customers to make sure the products and services we develop and implement can be truly useful in overcoming challenges," he explains.

Contributions and communications
Any message is important, but it must be received to make an impact. ACI excels at helping churches stay in touch with members. In addition to annual boxed set envelopes, ACI offers a mailing program that enables church leaders to reach out on a regular schedule. These mailings serve as an excellent communication tool, while adding a personal touch when used to invite and welcome members to upcoming events, services or activities.

Everyone agrees that it's difficult to ask for financial support in demanding economic times. However, Bonnie Keffer, secretary at St. John's Reformed Church in Pa., says that giving at their church has gone up significantly since implementing ACI's periodic mailing program.

"As a first-time customer I have been working with AmericanChurch, Inc., formulating our new offering envelope system," she explains. "I must say, I was very nervous about the process because I have difficulty learning new things. The folks at AmericanChurch have been superb. I didn't realize how easy this would be."

Ease wasn't the only thing that worked for St. John's. Bonnie reports that even with horrible winter weather that caused church cancellations, collections for the first two months in 2010 was up over their budgeted amount by nearly 20%. "Many people just mailed their envelope to the church," she says.

The future of the church
Most ministers agree that the future of the church rests on the shoulders of the youth. They understand that it is vital to the strength of a community to involve the youth in ministry as well as stewardship.

For decades, ACI has understood the need to introduce the concept of stewardship to young, impressionable Christians. There are numerous options for youth and teen envelopes, including one of the most popular, the Bible Trivia series features different questions from the Bible with the answers printed on the envelope.

Other children's envelope options include Color Me Giving for younger children, the S.S. Noah series and an Stewardship Beginnings that discuss time, talent and treasure.

The digital age
As the Internet becomes more readily available via free WIFI networks and lower costs for broadband access, it became feasible to invest in Web-enabled applications that people are asking for.

For those who aren't interested in writing checks and dropping an envelope in the collection basket, ACI implemented an electronic giving solution. ACI Online Giving option enables church members to make donations and track giving history.

Customers are also able to log on to the ACI portal to re-order products, view billing and manage other day-to-day functions. This streamlined way of doing business has enabled church and school staff members to work from home or on the road, improving productivity and cutting down on administrative overhead.

One of ACI's more popular electronic solutions, Online List Manager (OLM), is a free service for its customers. This online database makes it easy for the user to keep member records up-to-date, while maintaining address information. Because changes are real-time, scheduling, sorting, ordering products and other administrative tasks are streamlined. The bottom line: less time on the phone and improved, accurate communication with church members.

ACI also builds Total Address Quality (TAQ) into their mail services. TAQ is a mailing process designed to improve name and address data quality, lower costs and increase overall delivery accuracy. ACI uses several tools to scan, cleanse and modify address information into a format acceptable by the U.S. Postal Service. TAQ is standard for customers who use AmericanChurch mailing services. ACI also offers Address Data Services, a fee service which provides mail list certification for churches and organizations that wish to do their own mailings.

Beckie Baker from First Baptist Church in Pompano, Fla., says she is pleased with TAQ and OLM. "I receive address changes made to our mailing list. It really helps...because this is information we normally wouldn't have gotten until a piece of mail was returned. This saves us on the cost of returned mail," she says.

For Linda Meadows, ministry assistant at Living Water Baptist Church in Longs, S.C., OLM is easy to use and understand. "The ease with which I can input, revise and delete data is amazing," she says. "It is actually one of the jobs that I look forward to handling each week."

"The reports are helpful to the day-to-day operational activities as well," she adds. "It's perfect for the needs of our church."

ACI continues to offer printed products, envelopes and newsletters (although some are electronic) all designed to help ministers stay in contact with the people in the pews.

Vibrant communities
Pastors, church leaders and their staff understand that consistent, open communications are the foundation of creating and maintaining a vibrant church community. All ACI products and services are designed to reach members on a personal level.

ACI has products and services that bring communities together using education programs and other pertinent materials that can highlight volunteer opportunities and foster an environment of inclusion.

In 2009, ACI introduced Engage outreach mailings to bring new people into the church and Inform! newsletter service to keep in touch with members.

Engage is a list, print and mail service that helps a church reach out to new movers or specific groups of people. Churches can request target mailings to appeal to the group of people who would most likely respond to their invitation.

Churches who use the Inform! newsletter service are able to keep active and inactive members informed of church life activities and reinforce teaching. Many churches have used Inform! newsletters formatted as regular financial or stewardship activity reports.

The bottom line
Whatever challenges a church or organization is facing can be addressed with timely communication. From envelopes to online giving, ACI excels at delivering technologically advanced, well thought solutions to bring churches and their communication efforts to the next level in a way that engages church members, saves time and money.

For more information, contact ACI customer service toll-free, 800-446-3035, or visit the Web site, http://www.americanchurch.com/.