Tips for Thanking (and Keeping) Donors
If, as experts predict, this giving season turns out to be a big one and your nonprofit meets or exceeds its year-end goals, you’ll want to thank your generous donors in special ways.
To help you, The Chronicle has compiled a list of some of our most popular expert advice on how to thank your donors most effectively.
This task may feel like a chore, but experts stress that doing it well can mean the difference between a one-time donor and a longtime supporter. This collection includes guidance on issues of etiquette, timing, legal language, and keeping donors engaged — much of what you need to reinvigorate your donor thank-you letters.
Checklist
March 04, 2015
A 13-Point Checklist for Writing Better Thank-You Letters to Donors
Mention your website, offer a way to connect, let them know when they will hear from you next, and other important tips.
Tool Kit
February 27, 2015
Want Your Donors to Give Year After Year? Start Here.
These key concepts can help your nonprofit increase its retention rate.
Checklist
August 05, 2015
5 Ways to Go Beyond a Standard Gift Acknowledgment Letter
Fundraisers need to put more time and energy into thanking donors who have made generous gifts.
Article
August 11, 2014
How Top Fundraisers Succeed: Thank Donors in Meaningful Ways
Lori O’Brien, a fundraiser at Youth Villages, says it’s important to send acknowledgments that are personal.
Article
April 07, 2014
Medical Center Gets Repeat Donations by Sending Anniversary Cards
Loma Linda University Health sends its supporters a card a year after their first gift to remind them to donate again.
Article
September 01, 2011
Making Sure No Donor Gets the Same Thank-You Letter Twice
Trinity College gathers lots of options that can be woven together into acknowledgment notes.
Article
December 20, 2012
How to Thank Donors
As donors scramble to get tax write-offs in 2012—and the IRS gets pickier about gift receipts—a tax lawyer outlines the key rules for charities.
Template
February 26, 2015
An Acknowledgement Letter for a Gift of Stock
A Better Chance, an education charity, uses a version of this letter to thank donors who give stock.
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