Preparing Your Heart to Ask
Training films & e‑book for the Illuman Capacity Building Campaign
Welcome—and Thank You.
We are so grateful that you’re considering stepping in as a solicitor and as a donor. You are helping bring Illuman’s next chapter to life. This campaign strengthens our capacity so we can continue offering Men’s Rites of Passage and the constellation of programs that accompany them, while also resourcing chapters in their on‑the‑ground work. Your willingness to ask others to support this mission—personally, relationally, and from the heart—makes that possible.
You will find everything you need on this page to prepare, practice, and invite others into the vision.
What’s Here: Three Short Training Films — Preparing Your Heart to Ask
Downloadable E‑book (PDF) — Preparing Your Heart to Ask
A written companion to the films with teaching, stories, and step‑by‑step guidance for preparation, visits, and follow‑up. Download the pdf or view online.
Appendices (Google Doc)
Editable tools that you can copy and paste, including sample outreach emails and texts, visit outlines, response forms, follow-up scripts, and simple checklists to simplify your work. View appendices online or download as a Word document. Additional resources include Tactical Talking Points and How to Respond to Challenging Conversations.
Live Campaign Resources
Case for Support – The core message you’ll share. (Live link—always current.)
Campaign Dashboard – Real‑time progress and milestones. (Live link—always current.)
How to Use These Resources
Start with Film #1. Let the vision and the “why” land.
Skim the e‑book. Mark the sections you want at your fingertips.
Open the Appendices. Make a copy; personalize the email/visit scripts for your circle.
Make your own gift or pledge. “Speed of the leader, speed of the team.”
Invite 3–5 men you know. Schedule brief, human conversations virtually or in person.
Follow up with care. A clear next step, a sincere thank‑you, and a timely recap note go a long way.
With Gratitude to Blair Anderson
We are deeply thankful to Blair Anderson, who poured heart, story, and hard‑won experience into these materials. His teaching animates the films and the e‑book, offering a grounded way to approach generous conversations with confidence and joy.
Recommended Resource
Henri Nouwen – The Spirituality of Fundraising
This powerful book offers a heart-centered, vision-centered way of fundraising. Nouwen reminds us that inviting others into generosity is not begging—it’s ministry, a sacred opportunity to share our vision and call others into it.
We encourage every solicitor to keep a copy close at hand. It’s a quick read, but its wisdom will steady your heart, give you courage, and deepen your joy as you prepare to ask.
“Fundraising is first and foremost a form of ministry. It is proclaiming what we believe in such a way that we offer other people an opportunity to participate with us in our vision and mission.” —Henri Nouwen
We’re Here for You
Questions? Want a quick coaching call before a visit?
Contact: Markku Kostamo
📧 markku@kaci.io
📞 604‑617‑1492
Book a Zoom Meeting with me here.
Thank you again for lending your voice, presence, and courage. Every conversation you hold helps Illuman continue this life‑changing work—and invites others into the joy of generosity.