As we’re officially into the holiday season, I found myself thinking about donors, but in a different way.
We all know that calling donors to thank them after they’ve made a gift is a smart use of a board member or executive director’s time.
Not only is it the right thing to do, there is a significantly higher chance that they’ll make a subsequent gift if they get a call within 48 hours.
Here’s one way you can “give back” to those that share your mission by contributing their resources throughout the year.
Compassion during the holiday season
This season, plan a highly targeted thank you campaign. It can be last minute and provide meaning in a way you can’t possibly imagine.
Make a list of donors that you know are alone – regardless of how much money they have contributed. Think broadly.
There are people of all ages that are alone over the holidays for personal reasons.
For example, some gay people are estranged from their families, as are others. Elderly people are isolated year-round and it’s particularly difficult over the holidays. Some people lost a loved one 1 or 2 or 3 years ago, and the holidays are still a painful time for them.
Special note: I’m not speaking of those that are grieving from a recent loss. That’s more complicated and may be inappropriate.
Give them a call and thank them for their support, just like you would for any donor. What will make this call different is making an intention to not be in a hurry.
If they pick up the phone, take time to chat. Listen. Share what’s going on at your nonprofit, and in your life
That’s it. What a gift to you to make a difference in your donor’s lives.
Does this resonate?
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