LEVERAGING THE GIVING SEASON: THINGS A NONPROFIT CAN STILL DO NOW TO MAXIMIZE THEIR GIVING TUESDAY RETURNS
The giving season is in full effect once again, and with it comes the opportunity for nonprofits to raise not only funds but also create sustainable partnerships with philanthropic individuals and organizations. While Giving Tuesday may have already passed, there are still plenty of ways for nonprofits to maximize their giving season, gain visibility, and encourage donations.
We will discuss five things nonprofit organizations can still do to encourage donations during the giving season as well as build relationships with potential donors. Whether you are a marketing director, executive director, nonprofit director, development director, or fundraiser, this post is for you. Let’s dive in!
Don’t stop promoting Giving Tuesday – even after the day has passed
While the actual Giving Tuesday day may have passed, it does not mean that you should stop promoting the concept of giving back. Continue to use social media and other channels to remind your audience that donations are critical to fulfilling your mission. You can even launch a ‘Giving Tuesday Extension Campaign’ where supporters can still donate funds that will go towards supporting your organization's objectives.
Use social media to encourage donations and involvement
Social media platforms are great tools for nonprofits looking to engage their community and encourage donations. As the holiday season can be an expensive time for most people, using social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your organization's compelling stories and other content can encourage potential donors to connect better with your organization and cause.
Find a matching donor for your virtual fundraising campaign
With the ongoing pandemic, hosting a tailored holiday-themed virtual fundraiser can boost visibility and raise funds effectively. Organize special events or auctions and engage your audience to create excitement and drive donations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to double the impact by securing a matching donor.
Encourage Donors To Become High-Value And Recurring Donors
The giving season is not just about raising funds once, but it is also important to turn your donors into recurring donors. Organizations can encourage donors to make monthly donations or bi-annual donations to support their mission and causes throughout the year. By increasing their values, even small donations can make a huge impact and can lead to lasting relationships with your donors. Remember to maintain an excellent relationship with your existing donors by keeping them updated on the progress of your projects.
Say Thank You
Last but not least, be sure to say thank you. Your donors are investing in your mission, and it is essential that they feel valued and appreciated. A thoughtful note, card, or personalized message from the appropriate leader or person can go a long way in showing your gratitude. Remember, gratitude breeds generosity, and saying thank you for your donors' contributions can go a long way to enhancing donor relationships.
The giving season is a critical time for nonprofits to raise funds and attract new donors. By leveraging social media, gaining a matching gift donor, encouraging high-value and recurring donors, promoting Giving Tuesday beyond the day, and thanking your donors, organizations can put themselves in a better position to raise more funds during the giving season as well as build sustainable relationships with their donors. Remember, it's not what you say; it's not even what you do, but it is how you make your donors feel that lingers. Let’s make this giving season count!