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Steier Tips

The Magic Words

As a nonprofit, the success of your organization is dependent upon the time, talent and treasure of others. In our fast-paced society, we are often overwhelmed and too busy with meetings, phone calls, e-mails and daily "fires" to reflect on those who really make a difference in our nonprofits: volunteers and donors.

In order to keep those valued and necessary people passionate and connected to your organization, the best gift you can bestow is to say "thank you."

Because there are so many nonprofits in need of support, it is critical to nurture the relationships you have with those who believe in your mission and are the life-blood of your nonprofit. The key question becomes, how can an organization keep the volunteers and donors engaged and motivated? The answer is to make each feel special and intimately involved in your success. That process begins with saying "thank you."

The following is a starting point for how an organization may say "thank you" and cultivate the relationships with those who help keep the doors of the nonprofit open.

     ·  Remind your staff to say a friendly "thank you" to volunteers on site.

     ·  Send a hand-written note from the executive director or board members.

     ·  If children are part of your organization, ask them to become involved in the         process, by drawing or coloring cards or by creating Christmas ornaments or         spring flower decorations or fall leaf arrangements to be enclosed with a note         of thanks.

     ·  Provide space in newsletters to list those who have donated their time and/or         dollars.

     ·  Produce articles in newsletters explaining to donors what has been achieved         through their generosity.

     ·  Consider a donor wall on-site that lists all supporters.

     ·  Design a commemorative keepsake for the donors that says "thank you" and         keeps your organization in front of their eyes.

     ·  Host a simple thank you gathering on-site which fosters community,         relationship building and gratitude.

     ·  Produce recognition awards for length of service for volunteers or donors.

     ·  Welcome new volunteers by profiling them in a newsletter.

     ·  Provide a yearly thank you letter which serves as a list of financial         contributions for tax purposes.

     ·  Personally visit with top donors who have an impact on your organization.

The number of ways to say "thank you" is unlimited. It is the priceless gift that you can give to those who have given to further your mission. However you choose to say "thank you," do so in a timely, organized and consistent manner. This shows your volunteers and donors that you run an efficient organization which understands and maximizes the use of people's time and treasure.

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