Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” reminds me that we need 50 Ways to Appreciate Our Donors!
Use these ideas so they won’t leave us “on the bus, like Gus.”
Handwritten/U.S. mail
1. Letter from the CEO or Executive Director
2. Handcrafted note from a participant; bonus if this is from a child
3. Note from a board member
4. Postcard with impact story
5. Note of appreciation from a client
Cards
6. Signed with personal notes from all staff or several clients
7. Anniversary of their first gift
8. Birthday
9. Valentine’s
10. Thanksgiving
11. 4th of July
Phone call
12. From the CEO / ED (feel free to leave a message)
13. From a board member
Invitations
14. To special meetings with leadership to hear updates
15. To VIP reception prior to gala or luncheon
16. To lunch — say thank you in person and let them know how the gift was used
17. To attend a program and meet participants
18. Behind-the-scenes tour for your donor and their friends (museum or cultural institution).
19. Private conversation with “stars” (performing arts center)
20. To volunteer with a program, they have funded
Recognition
21. Ask them how they wish to be recognized
22. Include them in your donor wall (or online donor list)
23. Include in giving society
24. Framed certificate of appreciation
25. A plaque or award for their desk or wall (at home or at work)
26. Nominate them for volunteer or donor of the year award
27. Public recognition at an awards dinner or reception
Gifts
28. Picture (photo or drawing) from a client
29. Baked goods (baked by your clients) delivered to their home or office
30. Handmade gift from clients
31. A small plant or bouquet of flowers
32. Cookie delivery
33. Hersey kisses to show your affection
34. Roll of Lifesavers — they are lifesavers to your organization
35. Key chain with a “key” to your home (residential programs)
36. Luggage tag in a bright color
37. Address labels
38. Highlighters
Branded
39. Tote bag
40. Coffee mug
41. Singing telegram / serenade (performing arts organizations)
42. Small first aid kit (healthcare organizations)
Electronic
43. Personalized email from the program staff sharing an impactful story
44. Social media post mentioning a donor’s support
45. Include their story in your newsletter
46. A text to say thanks
47. Short video with a quick note from Executive Director
48. Share their story on your website (showcase your donor’s reason for giving)
49. Quarterly updates on the impact of their giving
50. Link to video of clients or staff saying “thank you” using the donor’s name (a personal video, not simply a generic one).
Incorporating a few of these suggestions can ensure your donors’ loyalty for the long term, so they don’t make a new plan, Stan.
Cheers,
Michelle Crim, CFRE
Dynamic Development Strategies can help. We offer coaching, grant writing, and fundraising services for our nonprofit clients. We specialize in small to mid-size organizations because we understand your challenges. Please contact us for more information.
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