For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. There is no reason that the business aspect of giving should be a hurdle preventing gifts to be given. Furthermore, it does not matter how eager you are to give to a cause, if you do not have the address or instructions to write a check, you can not follow through on your desires. Plan ahead to make it easy for a donor to respond.
Churches are often a difficult source for missions support.
This may sound contrary to common wisdom, and it is our prayer that it will change, but with today's realities it is most often true. They require a large up-front investment of time with a number of individuals, presenting and defending rationale, and gaining broad exposure. The two benefits from church involvement are that you can gain broad exposure, and that church commitment can be more ongoing and long-term. Often foundations are also difficult to tap for funding. Foundations usually have a narrow focus and you need to prove that you qualify very specifically for the available funds.