And thank them all year round

Effective donor recognition doesn't stop when the donor gives. It happens all year round.

IT'S PROMPT -- Send your acknowledgements out as rapidly as possible. Paper acknowledgements are still important - not as fleeting as that online acknowledgement that's quickly forgotten.

IT'S PASSIONATE -- Beyond the business of the gift amount and taxes, this is a special opportunity to deliver some key messages about your organization and its power to make our world a better place. Design the package so it pops. Put a big “thank you!” on the front of the envelope. Make it shine, delight and create a memorable interaction.

IT'S PARTICIPATORY --  Surveys... quizzes... polls... find ways (particularly online) to invite people to tell you what they most love about your organization. You'll learn more about them. They'll feel great about the opportunity to share. Send them emails with links to great content on your website or elsewhere.

IT'S PERPETUAL -- At least once a quarter, schedule a special social media post to thank your members. If you have a magazine or newsletter, make sure a bold thank you is included in every one. Send a holiday card. Send a surprise postcard mid-year with an engaging message on the front and an appreciative message on the back.

Call your supporters. A simple thank you call in the sixth month of membership has been proven to improve retention. That's something everyone can get behind. 

So many creative ways to connect. And what fun it can be!