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Steier Tips

The Importance of Recognizing Your Donors

Perhaps this should be titled "appreciating your donors," because in reality, showing your appreciation for their support is critical to donor retention. Most nonprofits do a good job of recognizing who their key donors are, but many times fall down when it comes to showing their appreciation.

Donors need to know that their gift is helping to achieve the organization's mission and that their gift is being used in the manner they intended. Getting a personalized "thank you" note in a timely fashion lets them know it is being processed, and they will assume that you are using it wisely. Here are some other creative ways to thank them:

     ·  In a religious organization, coordinate a lunch or dinner party with the         pastor, (arch)bishop or equivalent for your top tier donors
     ·  Hold donor appreciation events on a yearly basis, emphasizing how their         contributions have helped moved the organization forward.
     ·  Schedule personal visits or lunch dates with top donors to thank them and         to inform them about the progress of your organization and the specific         use of their gifts.

Many times the success of an organization hinges on the ability of the leadership to build and sustain relationships with volunteers and donors. These two groups are the backbone of every project your organization launches and will determine the success or failure of those projects.

As is the case in any relationship, communication is vital, and it is a year-round job. It takes work to maintain contact during the summer months or with the winter snowbirds, but it pays dividends. Donors do not want a phone call only when the organization needs financial support. Here are some ideas for keeping them involved:

     ·  Make time to write simple, personal notes to key donors with an update         on how things are going and how much you appreciate their ongoing         support.
     ·  Invite donors to exclusive "open houses" where they can come and get a         behind-the-scenes look at your current project.
     ·  Send out quarterly newsletters specifically to your donor database with         updates and progress reports.?

Providing information, communicating your appreciation and maintaining contact are the fundamental ingredients in a strong relationship. Take the time to cultivate strong relationships with those who are already loyal and supportive of your mission. If you accomplish this, your benefactors will benefit from a positive giving experience and will continue to share their time, wisdom and financial support with your organization.

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