We live in desperate, frightening times. We need caring more than ever. Covid is raging, killing people in numbers too big for our hearts to grasp. Those of us who can cling to the myth that we live in a safe bubble, where our loved ones are not sick. Those of us who can’t, grieve. […]
How to show your donors they matter
You know you should thank your donors right away. With sincerity. But unless you don’t care about keeping your donors, you also need to confirm their decision to give was a wise one. How? You share with them what their giving has done. With stories, not statistics. This could be a donor newsletter. It could […]
Is your annual report a vanity piece or a hard worker?
Is your annual report a vanity piece? It’s a serious question: what purpose does your annual report serve? And what outcomes are you looking for? Too many organizations see an annual report as part required reporting and part organizational brochure. But even if yours is meant to be a sales piece, is it selling? How […]
Why you should be creating a donor newsletter
You should be creating a donor newsletter. Because they’re a love letter to your donors. I had the opportunity to talk with a couple of executive directors who are working with a friend of mine, Jenny Mitchell. Both were interested in the how-to of an annual giving program. I found myself mentioning newsletters often. Yes, appeals. […]
Being grateful makes you and your donors happier
At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. […]