ThanksGIVING. That’s the way the word looks to everyone in the nonprofit sector. And hey, when 41% of your contributions are made in the last 6 weeks of the year it only makes sense.
Fundraising is top of the mind for every charitable organization. Which makes our next bit of advice a little counter intuitive. This Thanksgiving season, maybe you shouldn’t ask for money.
It makes sense that in a time of gratitude there are many people who are looking for opportunities to give back to others. Gratitude gives us a sense of plenty that inspires sharing. But that doesn’t mean you need to ask for them to share with you…at least not right now.
Here at PiP we believe there’s a power in gratitude, and not just the kind of power that impacts your bottom line. When you express your own gratitude to your donors, your volunteers and your staff you connect them to your mission.
It may not be a direct fundraising tool, but stronger connections lead to more donations. Saying thank you, and just thank you, is a powerful way to unite individuals to your cause.
And the best way to say thank you? Tell someone the impact they’ve had on the constituents you serve. Tell them a story. Make them a part of your story.
Make a phone call. Hand-write a letter. Send an e-mail. Tell your donors, volunteers and staff about a specific person their efforts have impacted. Just say thank you.
Because uniting people to your cause does more than help you raise more money. It creates an army of people who believe it’s part of their story to bring your mission to life. And that is something to be thankful for.
Happy Holidays!
With all our love,
The PiP Team.