In today’s inspiring episode of The Beacon Show, host Tamara Jackson has a profound conversation with Timothy Dockery. He shares insights on giving back to the community. He has had a remarkable journey in Catholic fundraising. He has a career that spans decades of transformative work. He was born into a family where fundraising and faith naturally intertwined. He was the son of a pioneering fundraising professional who helped codify the profession. “I grew up watching my father help turn fundraising into something people study and learn,” Dockery reflects. His journey from humble beginnings to a leader in faith-based fundraising shows how personal calling and skills can align. This alignment has allowed him to make a significant impact in the community.
Watch Timothy’s full interview on YouTube!
Ministry of Fundraising
Dockery challenges the traditional view of fundraising as a business function. “Throughout scripture, Jesus teaches the importance of giving,” he emphasizes. He positions fundraising as a crucial ministry. It aims to help people fulfil their spiritual calling to give and serve others. He highlights that generosity is a fundamental aspect of faith. Dockery transforms giving from a transaction into a meaningful expression of faith and community. He believes that people give not just to support a project, but to improve lives, stating, “People give to help improve people’s lives.” This philosophy views fundraising as a ministry. It nurtures the spiritual growth of both donors and the communities they support.
The Abundance Mindset in Giving
Timothy emphasizes the importance of adopting an abundance mindset when it comes to giving. This transforms the way individuals and communities approach philanthropy. He shares a powerful lesson from Father Larry Richards. He asks, “How much of your income belongs to the Lord? It’s 100 percent. He lets you keep 90 percent.” This perspective sees resources as gifts from God to share and support others. Dockery believes that understanding this principle helps people to give more freely and joyfully. It helps them to recognize that generosity is not just a duty. It is an opportunity to take part in God’s work. Dockery hopes to inspire a culture where giving is seen as a privilege and key to one’s faith journey.
Building Lasting Donor Relationships
Timothy believes building relationships starts with understanding donors’ passions. Aligning with their priorities is key. “You listen your way to the gift,” he advises. He highlights that the initial decision to give is often an emotional one, driven by a heartfelt desire to make a difference. This approach focuses on understanding donors’ passions and priorities before making any asks. “People don’t give to buildings; people give to help improve people’s lives,” he explains. This donor-centric approach has helped him raise millions for various causes. Dockery believes fundraisers can foster a deeper connection with donors. It helps to transform them from mere contributors into active participants in a shared mission. This approach ensures that the support aligns with causes that resonate deeply with their values.
Success Stories in Faith-Based Fundraising
Dockery shares inspiring examples of successful campaigns. For example Rotary International’s PolioPlus campaign. It has helped save an estimated 50 million children from polio. This monumental campaign aimed to immunize children worldwide against polio. It demonstrates the extraordinary outcomes that can be achieved when communities unite for a common cause. He also discusses the Lions Clubs International’s sight programs. He demonstrates how faith-based fundraising can create a global impact. He reflects, “It was really powerful to see what we can do when we come together as a society.” These stories show Dockery’s belief that faith-driven fundraising can meet needs. It can inspire lasting hope worldwide.
Overcoming Modern Fundraising Challenges
Dockery stresses the importance of setting realistic, faith-based goals to tackle fundraising challenges. “While with God, all things are possible. Let’s not put God to the test too hard,” he advises. Dockery emphasizes the need to identify donors who align with the mission. These donors should also have the capacity to give significantly. He stresses the importance of understanding the community’s financial landscape. His approach highlights the importance of thoughtful preparation. This includes creating an “elevator pitch” that conveys the initiative’s impact and importance. Such a pitch helps engage and motivate potential supporters effectively.
Conclusion
Timothy Dockery’s insights reveal that successful fundraising isn’t just about raising money. It’s about inspiring people to take part in something greater than themselves. Dockery emphasizes building relationships and understanding donors’ passions. This approach shows how philanthropy can become a shared journey toward common goals. His journey demonstrates how faith and finances can work together to strengthen communities. Dockery’s legacy is one of faith, service, and the transformative power of generosity. It leaves a lasting impact on the communities he serves. His journey highlights the role of faith and perseverance in overcoming fundraising challenges. It affirms that with God, all things are possible.
About Timothy Dockery
Timothy Dockery is a seasoned fundraising professional. His career spans over three decades. It is marked by a distinctive blend of faith and strategic philanthropy. Dockery was raised in a family deeply rooted in both faith and community service. He was profoundly influenced by his father, Vernon Dockery. He was a pioneer in Catholic fundraising. He helped establish the profession’s ethical standards and educational framework. Timothy’s journey into fundraising wasn’t preordained. He contemplated a career in law or business at first. But was drawn to his true calling through a compelling encounter with a global polio eradication campaign.
Dockery has devoted his life to using philanthropy to inspire spiritual growth. He also seeks to foster community development through it. He has worked with the Community Counseling Service (CCS), the Archdiocese of Chicago, and Ave Maria University. These positions have been pivotal in his career. His efforts have facilitated significant fundraising campaigns. These include Rotary International’s PolioPlus initiative and the Lions Clubs International sight programs. Timothy believes fundraising is a ministry. He emphasizes that “people give to help improve people’s lives.” His commitment to faith-driven philanthropy continues to impact communities worldwide.
Resources Mentioned
Community Counseling Service (CCS)
Rotary International’s PolioPlus Campaign
