by Roan Elford

As a faith mission, NCEM is totally dependent on the Lord for sufficient resources needed to carry on our work among First Nations. It is through the prayers of God’s people, and their gifts, that this ministry can continue and expand.

On March 31 (2011), NCEM concluded another fiscal year. We wish to publicly praise God for His supply, and express our appreciation for those who contribute.

Some may wonder how the recent Canada Post service interruption affected our work. It’s difficult to answer specifically (as this is written, service has not resumed), but we do rely heavily on postal services. In fact, 87% of our donors give by cheque.

13% of our donors have switched to others ways of giving in the past few years. Some use automated bank withdrawal or credit card giving (by phone, or online through Canada Helps). For donors with personal online banking, email transfer is also an option.

Please write or call us if you are considering new ways of giving.

Our readers may also be wondering how the economic recession that began a couple years ago has affected NCEM. For our 2010-11 fiscal year, overall giving was down by almost $500,000. Some of our missionaries attribute a loss of support to the recession, especially those with US supporters. (Interestingly, giving was generally not down for 2009-10.)

Besides support for individual missionaries, we are thankful for contributions to our General Fund. The “General” is relied on for many behind-the-scenes expenses such as Insurance ($75,000); Administration ($103,000 – postage, printing, travel, etc.); Payroll expenses ($134,000 – employer’s share of EI, CPP, Workers’ Comp., etc.).

Our three largest ministries for which we received designated support (outside of missionary payroll) are: Tribal Trails Television ($530,000), Key-Way-Tin Bible Institute ($200,000), and Bible Camps ($180,000).

(Above are round figures for 2010-11)

As a member of Missio Nexus (a worldwide association of mission organizations), NCEM is committed to financial integrity and high internal controls. Our finances are audited annually and we comply with directives to further our commitment to integrity.

Our detailed financial statement is available upon request, and we welcome questions you may have.

Please visit our "Donate" pages for more about our financial policies.

In His Service,
Roan Elford
NCEM Chief Financial Officer
 

After a number of years in field ministry, language department, and on Key-Way-Tin Bible Institute staff, Roan and his wife, Pat, now serve at NCEM Headquarters in Prince Albert. Pat is Personnel Coordinator and Executive Secretary.

(adapted from Northern Lights issue #516)