A cornerstone of being a non-profit organization fueled almost entirely by the kind donations of others is donor appreciation.
Donors need to feel like their contribution is noticed, received warmly, and actually making a difference. They may not expect recognition. After all, they are giving because they want to give. Still, a little appreciation will go a long way to turn a one-time donator into a lifelong supporter of your cause.
“The way donors are thanked can…have a significant impact on the likelihood that they will give again,” says the National Council of Nonprofits.
How, though, can you give a proper ‘thank you’ to ensure your donors feel connected to your cause and appreciated by your non-profit? We’re back with our series on Fundraising Initiatives with tips on two best practices for donor appreciation.
Incentivizing with a ‘Thank You’
A low-cost and basic incentive is simple recognition.
Of course – whether viewing it as an incentive for donors or not – most non-profits recognize the value and necessity of a personalized ‘thank you’ to supporters.
Going the extra mile to make your donors feel their contribution is received with gratitude will make them more likely to continue supporting your cause in the long run.
Here’s a little guide to how to give a proper ‘thanks’ to your contributors:
Dear (insert preferred name of donor),
It means the world to us to have your support for the (insert your awesome cause). We just want to reach out and say a big thank you!
Rest assured that your generous donation will go a long way in helping us (insert a goal related to your cause).
Don’t forget to attend our upcoming event at (insert details on an upcoming event), and invite your friends and family. We look forward to seeing you there!
With sincere gratitude,
Signature, Cause
A branded email will suffice, but a handwritten or typed card sent via snail mail is even more special, depending on how much time and resources you have. Either way, it’s good to make it customized to your cause and personalized to the individual.
What else can you do to show appreciation for supporters of your cause?
Social Media Appreciation
Another fabulous way to say ‘thank you’ to a donor is by posting about it on social media. Direct recognition via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter will surprise and delight your supporters. They’ll feel like they are truly part of your organization.
Here are a few simple ways to say ‘thank you’ via social media:
- Tag supporters or volunteers on an appreciation post.
- Comment on the post of a recent donor to personally thank them.
- Share lots of posts about what your donors’ funds are accomplishing in support of your cause.
- Re-share any posts supporters have tagged your non-profit in.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to use your cause’s custom hashtag.
It may take a few extra minutes each day, but this kind of recognition will give warm and fuzzy feelings all around and keep your cause funded!
Appreciate Your Donors
Considering today’s tough economic climate, you’ll likely agree that it’s especially important to express appreciation for each gift, no matter how small. The fact that someone is willing to set aside even a few dollars to support your cause means a lot.
Taking time to make sure your donors know how much their support means to you and what it will do to further your cause will make them feel great and fuel them to keep supporting you!
Another smart way to show how much you love your donors and your cause is to simplify the donation process with a customized donation page on Create Your Cause. Your supporters will love our user-friendly, secure platform. With Create Your Cause, it’s easier than ever to fund your cause!
