Written by Debbie Leazer
Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can be expressed in many ways, from a simple thank you note or phone call to a permanent plaque on a building or area. A meaningful acknowledgment of those that share their time, talent and treasure shows your gratitude.
All donors regardless of how long they have been giving or the value of their contribution should be acknowledged promptly and in a meaningful way. Acknowledgment letters should be signed by influential volunteers, leadership or executive staff.
Experiential Recognition – in which the donor participates – is valued more by the donor then a branded gift or listing of names in a publication. Invite them to dinner with their recipient, invite them as a participant on a project or a behind-the-scenes tour, include them in future planning meetings or a focus group, ask them to share a special hobby or talent with your constituents.
Handwritten Notes and Phone Calls following the acknowledgment letter let the giver know that you appreciate them, especially if the call is specific to their gifts intention or if it comes from the project/person it directly supported. thankview by evertrue is a great platform to video an individual message and send to a donor or a group of donors. This platform provides the opportunity to directly connect the giver to the people they have impacted. They get to watch engaging video made exclusively for them.
Naming Opportunities are limited and usually only available to only a few but provide a timeless acknowledgment of donors’ investment. Naming opportunities should be deliberate and reflect the non-profits intent for the space. There is something about an engraved name plaque that provokes feelings of pride and permanence for a donor.
Events are a great way to acknowledge an individual or group. Exclusive events and insiders’ access that might include a donor, CEO, and those their gift directly supported are impactful and personal. Larger events can be used to acknowledge annual fund donors, celebrate a campaign or specific project.
A few other ways to show appreciation include: electronic donor walls that are easily updated, and can include pictures, movies; annual reports; gift clubs with levels of giving that fit the non-profit can be an effective way to tier and group donors; social media postings; newsletter highlighting a gift and giver; and an honor or award presented at an event.
Meaningful becomes more than just a word when your donors feel appreciated; when your Board members are as eager as you to pick up the phone and say thank you, and when you are excited to engage with a donor and meet their needs; then the giving/expressing gratitude circle is realized.
