International (MNN) — Good intentions, poor execution. Unfortunately, that happens all too often in ministry. Raising donor dollars for godly projects is one thing, but knowing how to best use all of those funds is another.
Poor stewardship can be especially troubling for donors who are pulling their pockets inside out during a worldwide economic crisis. As giving becomes more of a strain for many, giving to an organization who will use funds effectively becomes an essential priority.
Things like credit-ratings do not go unnoticed for donors giving $5 or $5,000 to a ministry.
That's why Christian satellite television service to the Middle East and North Africa SAT-7 is rejoicing over their recent 4-star rating from Charity Navigator. Charity Navigator is America's largest independent charity evaluator. This is the third year in a row that SAT-7 has been given a 4-star rating; out of thousands of nonprofits evaluated, only 9% have achieved that feat.
"I think it gives us a trusted brand. And the fact that we've achieved it three years in a row gives it more credibility," says SAT-7's Vice President for Finance and Administration, Ruth Thomas. She says the rating "gives [donors] a sense of security that their dollars are being spent well. We're not overly weighted on administration of fundraising. We give the most dollars we can to the mission, the project."
This kind of push is vital for SAT-7's important work.
"We reach children, adults, youth, women, men, many of whom are illiterate and cannot read a Bible if you handed it to them. One way we can reach them more effectively is through satellite TV, which is free to air in the region," says Thomas.
Believers and non-believers alike watch SAT-7 programs in Farsi, Turkish and Arabic. They hear stories from a Christian perspective and are able to learn about Christ through the interaction of characters, live shows, and kids programs. Literally millions of people access these programs in the 10/40 Window.
Christians not only identify with SAT-7's mission, but with a 4-star rating, they can trust that their money will be used as efficiently as possible if they offer support. Pray that this will mean big strides for the Kingdom for people of all faiths and walks of life who hear the Good News through SAT-7.
To learn more about SAT-7, click here.
