Here’s one very simple tip you can accomplish in a few hours that’s guaranteed to increase your year-end fundraising results.

In a nutshell:  Catch your donors by surprise. 

Here’s how to do it and why it’s important. 

First, set the mood. Block out an hour, grab some coffee and set an intention to enjoy yourself. This is quick, but it’s not a rush job. 

Step 1:  Identify 5 loyal, long-term donors whose contributions DO NOT qualify as a major gift.

Maybe they’ve giving $25/year for the past 8 years. Or, $100 for the last 3 years. Or, they’ve volunteered forever and are giving below their capacity.

Step 2:  Write a different kind of thank you note.

Thank them for their support over so many years and describe what’s been accomplished because of them. (They’ll be blown away.)

Are they a volunteer, former board member, event participant? Maybe you have no idea. Even better.

Being specific is key. Remember – head and heart.

“Joan, you’ve been giving to ___for 5 years now. Truly, I want to know how much you are appreciated.

When you began giving back in 2010, the XXX program was serving xxx, and now it’s up to xxx. The impact in the lives of …is huge.

This would absolutely not have been possible without your support.”

The fact that you know what year she started giving will send the message loud and clear that she matters. That her gift is making a difference. This is simple and oh so powerful.

Step 3:  Address the envelope and use a pretty stamp.  

If you’re using a label for the return address, hand write your name above it.

Done!  

Do this simple task, which takes only an hour or two, and these people will see your organization in a whole new light. 

Remember, this is bigger than you. Take time to do it well. 

If you do it consistently – and enjoy the process – resources will flow.

Now, customize it to your year-end campaign.

Think of how you can weave in something that’s linked to your campaign theme.

Even if you don’t have a specific theme (please try to, it makes a difference) say something important that you might write about in your solicitation letter. Sneaky, but sincere.

Put it on your calendar and do this once a month with a new group. Grab a wonderful photo of your mission in action and have it made into simple cards.

Get staff and board members involved. Especially those that want nothing to do with fundraising.

Side note:  Did you know that people who make small gifts to your organization consistently over many years are your best planned giving prospects? 

That’s not why you should do this, but it’s one more reason to appreciate ALL of your donors regardless of the size of their gift. 

Give it a try and track your results over the next year.

You’ll see what I mean.