When
Hong Kong Christian Service first started, our funding
depended mainly on grants and donations from churches
and Christian organizations outside Hong Kong. In
the 70s, overseas funds started to decrease. Government
subvention and local funds have been building up
since.
At present about 60% of our income derives from
government subvention and about 28% from dues
and fees. The remaining 12% comes from local donations
and other incomes (e.g. bank interest etc.). Local
donations are mainly from the Community Chest,
Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust and other
forms of donations. There are also a very small
percentage of donations from individuals. Hong
Kong Christian Service has not organized any fundraising
activities until two years ago.
The funding scheme of social welfare service
has changed. Government subvention is moving to
a model based on bidding and time-limited project,
hence the subvention is very restrictive and specifically
defined. Foundations are also moving to support
projects according to the priorities set by them.
As an NGO committed to respond to the ever-changing
needs, we must generate the financial capability
to do so. That is why we have decided to adopt
a strategy to widen our funding base, which means
to strengthen our fundraising programs. However,
the meaning of fundraising is not limited to income
increment. It also means opening up us to involve
more people, to allow and invite the public to
support our work and to participate. Donors are
not only contributing money but also helping to
set the agenda of our programs. They are one of
the stakeholders that we are accountable to.
Fundraising is also an opportunity for us to
introduce our service principles and work as well
as strengthening team spirit among our staff members.
Hong Kong Christian Service needs your participation
so that we could serve our community better. |