In order to support an expanded
program, the ENEJ is approaching fundraising in a more
systematic fashion for which we need the help of all our
members. In addition to seeking new members and renewals,
we will be targeting a number of dioceses where we have
good contacts and which may have resources to share. Specifically
we will come up with a list of 20 dioceses from which
we hope to raise $1000 each, either from the diocese or
organizations within the diocese, such as Peace &
Justice Commissions. We are thinking especially of large
urban dioceses associated with economic justice activity
and where we are strongly represented with ENEJ members,
for example, the Dioceses of Los Angeles, Newark, Michigan,
Ohio and Southern Ohio, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Atlanta,
Pennsylvania and Washington.
We will also have a list of smaller dioceses
where we also have ENEJ representation, dioceses such
as Milwaukee and Mississippi. Additionally we hope to
identify 20 larger parishes, such as members of endowed
parishes, from which we would also be seeking larger contributions.
These dioceses and congregations will be
contacted by letter (and follow-up phone calls or contacts),
including materials which highlight what ENEJ is, what
we have accomplished and what we are currently doing and
how we can provide resources to support economic justice
activity at each level. These resources include materials
such as the Community Investing booklet, a video on living
wage campaigns and educational modules to help congregations
and groups deal with economic issues and questions from
a Christian perspective.
Additionally of course are the variety of
people within the ENEJ network across the country who
can provide technical assistance to groups wishing to
become engaged in economic justice activity, from organizing
a credit union to advocating for living wages. With this
newsletter you will find we're now asking for memberships
from individuals, congregations and dioceses: $50+ for
individuals (for limited income persons, still $10), $100+
congregations or parish organizations and $250+ for dioceses.
So here, dear reader, is where you come
in: If you are a present member, please renew your membership
with this mailing and, where your means permit, give a
generous contribution over and‹ above the individual
membership amount. If you are not a member, please join
us.
Secondly, please let us know if you can
approach your bishop for a diocesan contribution or if
you know some other diocesan entity that can be approached
or if you are a member of an endowed parish or contacts
with such entities with resources that we may approach
to support our work. Can you help us with follow-up contacts
with these bishops or parishes after we send out letters?
Please let us know what you can do, as we organize this
fundraising effort, by responding via e-mail to Art Lloyd,
convener of the ENEJ fundraising committee, at aslloyd@mailbag.com.
Your suggestions and comments about our fundraising effort
are always welcome.
