Donor Relations Tip: Tis the Season for Donor Appreciation

The year-end giving season is just around the corner, and like most nonprofits, you’re probably dreaming up most compelling “ask” you can conjure. Before you start asking donors for money again, be sure to show them a little love. Here’s a basic but powerful donor relations tip:

A genuine gesture of donor appreciation can do wonders in making your supporters feel more like valued members of your community than ATM machines.

[ctt template=”3″ link=”9fjbd” via=”yes” ]Now is the time to make your supporters feel more like valued members of your community than ATM machines.[/ctt]

I’ve outlined 15 different ways you can express donor love and appreciation here and here. But if you’re strapped for time (and who isn’t) take the email template below, make it your own, and blast it out to your supporters today!

A tip for smart donor relations: a simple love letter

Make your donors feel appreciated by outlining why they’re special to your organization. Your love note doesn’t need to be long or mushy. In fact, you’re better off keeping it short and to the point.

This sample love letter from an animal shelter outlines 5 reasons why their supporters are special. Try coming up with something similar to share with your donors before you start asking for money again.

How do we love thee? Let us count the ways.

Hey /First Name/,

We see you, and we think you’re pretty special. Here’s why:

1. You believe in the underdogs!

2. Your life reflects your values!

3. You’re dedicated to making the world a better place.

4. You make personal sacrifices so our four-legged friends can feel safe and loved.

5. You dream big and love even bigger!

Oh, and the pups you help think you’re pretty special too!

From all of us at The Shaggy Shelter, thank you for your continued love and support!

Yours truly,

/signature/

Note: This is not the time to ask for another donation! Give your donors a break by showing them some real love without a call-to-action!

We’d love to hear your donor relations tips for the pre-giving season. Please share your ideas in the comments below.