David's expertise includes stewardship consultation, leadership development, organizational visioning, and motivational speaking. As an author of many noteworthy articles, he is a forerunner in the discipline of spiritual giving. He creates hope by providing practical consultation and motivational seminars for faith-based organizations. He empowers leaders to discover their vital role in enabling communities of faith to embody a generous culture.
He addresses the often-overlooked spiritual discipline of generosity, the debilitating impact of hyperconsumerism on giving, and the positive cycle of abundance-focused communities. The growing demand for his intuitive, strategic vision and passionate leadership is significant. One of David’s recognized strengths is his personal understanding of organizations from various perspectives. He gained experience as a pastor, a development director, and a regional and national church executive.
David has a keen understanding of the current economic and consumer trends impacting individual’s charitable giving. His dynamic presentations invite participants to learn from one another by engaging in stimulating peer learning. His comprehensive consultation is customized to meet the specific needs of a faith-based community.
In addition to serving as a Senior Partner and Consultant with Design Group Internationalä, David currently serves as Vice President of Stewardship with The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan. He is President of the Board of Directors of the Ecumenical Stewardship Center. He is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Christian Leadership Alliance, and the National Association of Church Business Administrators.
David is a magna cum laude graduate of Drew Theological School and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies and Secondary Education from The College of Wooster.
Online Resources
David publishes several innovative articles and resources designed for leaders of faith-based communities. These online resources:
• stimulate stewardship discussions
• assist worship leaders and pastors
• encourage financial campaign leaders
• promote spiritually-focused best practices
What others are saying . . .
"David offers passionate and compassionate leadership. A keen mind, pastoral heart and commitment to stewardship fuel his creativity as a skillful facilitator and visionary leader. His dynamic and friendly style, combined with sensitivity to ecumenical and cultural diversity, also make David a popular seminar leader in Canada and the U.S. David's delightful sense of humour complements his expertise for a meaningful and joyful experience."
Barbara Fullerton
Stewardship Development Program Coordinator
The United Church of Canada
"David provides both creative and visionary leadership, while simultaneously understanding the unique value of each person. He is a focused listener, an effective team leader, and a skilled consensus builder. His presentations are rich with story and well-supported by multimedia technology. He is dependable -- if he says he is going to do it, he will -- and it will be done exceeding your expectations."
Bishop Kenneth Schnell
Risk Management Services
Community of Christ World Headquarters
"What an honor and privilege to have David here! David helps vital churches carry out their mission mandate -- to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Wow! The number of `nuggets' gleaned from his leadership will enhance the way we are about ministry for a long, long time! Churches can only get stronger and more efficient by putting into practice his common-sense suggestions."
The Rev. Dr. Bruce Tuttle
Former Senior Pastor
Cave Spring United Methodist Church
Contact Information
David S. Bell, Senior Partner
Design Group Internationalä
P.O. Box 19
Kohler, WI 53044-0019
Phone: 877.771.3330
Fax: 888.845.9996
E-mail: davidb@DesignGroupIntl.com