The event has wrapped up, the last guest has left, and while all you WANT to do is head home and go-to bed, you are instead thinking of all the post event to-do’s on your list and which ones need to be checked off first. Event donor appreciation might be the most important task and is essential for long term donor support. Here are some basics on what you should know about doing it right!
Long-term donor support, the bread and butter of nonprofits, is built over time with concerted efforts to establish and then nurture relationships. By spending the time and effort to nurture these relationships, you can also anticipate increased loyalty and giving over time, from your most committed donors.
It is our recommendation to make donor retention a top priority, including over the importance of donor acquisition. Afterall, it takes twice as long to solicit new donors than to maintain your current supporters. Of all the efforts you spent acquiring new donors, an org should spend just as much if not more time working to foster these relationships through concerted efforts.
While a simple thank you and appreciation are well intended, there are lots of great ways to really acknowledge a donor’s support, build a relationship and encourage future donations. The main thing however is to ensure that whatever tactic you may use to thank a donor, it is done effectively and is impactful. Some things to consider moving forward:
- Thank frequently & regularly
- Make the thank you authentic & personal
- Make the thank you timely
- Explain the impact
- Celebrate the donor
Here are 10 tested ideas to show a donor the gratitude that will ensure a long lasting and meaningful relationship with your organization:
- Send a personalized thank you letter or video
- Call the person direct to thank them
- Feature your donors on your org’s website & social media
- Invites donors to attend organization projects to see first hand their impact
- Create and regularly update a donor appreciation wall or mural
- Host a donor appreciation event
- Arrange an office tour to view the org’s headquarters
- Send small gifts or a welcome package
- Arrange a time for donors to meet the team
- Ask your donor’s for their feedback
For more insights and resources on nonprofit fundraising, read more of our blogs here including dynamic annual campaign fundraising.
