by David Washburn, BGAV Treasurer

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Churches are noticing a pattern among younger members: they are deeply committed to their faith but give at significantly lower rates than previous generations. This isn’t about diminished generosity; it’s about a fundamental shift in how and why younger adults approach giving.

The Economic Reality

Millennials and Gen Z face financial pressures their parents didn’t. Student loan debt averages over $30,000, housing costs have outpaced wages dramatically, and the gig economy has replaced stable careers. Many young adults want to give generously but feel they’re barely staying afloat. The traditional 10% tithe feels mathematically impossible when you’re working two jobs.

Trust and Transparency

Younger generations grew up watching televangelist scandals and megachurch mismanagement exposed online. They want to see exactly where their money goes. Generic “general fund” appeals don’t resonate. They want specific impact stories, detailed budgets, and measurable outcomes. They’ll give sacrificially to causes they trust, but that trust must be earned.‍

The Digital Divide

Passing a plate feels antiquated to people who haven’t written a check in years. If your church only accepts cash or checks, you’ve created an unnecessary barrier. Younger givers expect Venmo, text-to-give, auto-draft options, and instant digital receipts.

Redefining Generosity

Many young adults view generosity holistically—supporting friends’ GoFundMe campaigns, buying fair-trade products, volunteering extensively, or giving directly to specific causes rather than institutional budgets. They see this as Christian stewardship, even if it doesn’t show up in the offering plate.

What Churches Can Do

- Make giving easy and send statements automatically. Implement multiple digital platforms and allow for earmarked donations to specific ministries.

- Communicate impact with specifics: “Your giving provided meals for 47 families” beats “Thanks for supporting our ministry.”

- Engage them in mission. Young adults give more when they’re also serving in the ministries they fund.

- Teach biblical generosity regularly—not just during capital campaigns. Frame it as a spiritual discipline, not a fundraising tactic.

- Be transparent. Publish detailed budgets. Explain costs honestly. Younger donors reward honesty, even when the numbers are uncomfortable.

The Opportunity

This generosity gap is actually an opportunity for deeper conversations about faith, money, and what it means to be the church. Younger generations are deeply idealistic and want their resources to matter for the kingdom. Churches that meet them where they are often discover that young adults become incredibly generous supporters—just not always in the ways we’ve traditionally measured.

Rev. David Washburn is BGAV’s treasurer.

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