"We have received to date pledges totaling more than $5.1 million over the next 5 years, an amount which is almost seven times our annual giving!"

More importantly, already we are showing a net increase in pledges of $89,514 with respect to giving toward next year's annual budget. I cannot help but recall the two principles stressed in the initial presentation of JD Klote's overall approach to financial stewardship: (1) the importance of one-on-one personal contact with each individual family and giving unit, and (2) the belief that inviting pledge commitments to the annual budget and a well-planned capital fund at the same time will most likely result in a significant increase in annual gifts. Having been guided by the exceptional on-site leadership of our gifted campaign consultant, our church family is a living testimony to the truth of the above fundamental convictions.

It is an understatement to say that the four months following our consultant and his wife's arrival in Belmont have been perhaps the most rewarding and transformational period for me as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Our consultant's calm, quiet, yet steady and faithful guidance born out of his love for Christ and his love for people served as a spark for igniting within our leadership a deeper understanding and commitment to regular and "sacrificial" giving to the ongoing ministry and capital needs of the church. In worshipping, working, and living among us, they became a part of our congregation and, we pray, our church family will forever be a part of their lives. We have loved them and they have loved us, and together God has done what none of us ever believed possible.

Presbyterians are by nature a suspicious and cautious bunch. As a result, many of our longstanding traditions and practices were challenged throughout our capital campaign experience, but in a manner that was always affirming, non-threatening, yet spiritually enriching.

We are not the same church we were before this effort began! Without reservation I gladly give James D. Klote & Associates my highest possible recommendation.

I enthusiastically refer them to any congregation seeking to grow in financial stewardship. Most of all, I express my gratitude for lessons learned these past several months based upon the solid foundation of biblical principles which have yielded a personal experience of spiritual renewal and a corporate experience of increased energy and enthusiasm for our common future together in service to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

– Rev. Sam Warner
First Presbyterian Church
Belmont, North Carolina

On behalf of the Capital Campaign Committee of the First Presbyterian Church - Belmont, I would like to extend our gratitude and warmest regards. With your assistance we are already nearing the successful conclusion of our first major campaign in over 40+ years. Beyond delivering on every aspect you proposed, you more importantly guided us on the true meaning of sacrificial giving and thus, led both our committee and the congregation on our campaign journey. Your desire to understand our history and congregational dynamics as well as knowledge of the Presbyterian Church was most beneficial to making solid recommendations. Therefore, our committee was able to expedite the many decisions that needed to be made in the course of the campaign.

Your tireless counsel and support to all involved whether it be in group or individual form was a significant key to maintaining a high level of enthusiasm. Our committee is particularly grateful for the joy we have experienced in following the lead of our campaign consultant and the JD Klote process.

As you know, we continue to seek your insight and direction as we come to closure and your on-going support is exceptional. It is the desire of all involved from our congregation to maintain a relationship with both of you personally and professionally for years to come. Without hesitation, we highly recommend JD Klote & Associates to other congregations considering a capital campaign. And, most certainly, will seek your services in the future.

– Rev. Sam Warner
First Presbyterian Church
Belmont, North Carolina