Give & Take

Skip the mugs, paperweights, and branded junk that end up in a drawer—or the trash. Donors don’t want another generic “thank you.” They want to feel seen. A thoughtful gift that reflects their values or sparks nostalgia can create lasting emotional connections—and even open the door to future giving. One museum sent vintage postcards tied to their mission, and donors actually asked for more. It’s not about spending more—it’s about caring more. Thoughtful appreciation beats forgettable freebies every single time.

How do you thank your alumni donors? We give them gifts. Every year. These can range from the mundane (a printed calendar) to the ridiculous (a bobble-head doll), to the more expensive-and-mundane (an engraved glass mug or paperweight.) Here's how to end the agita and understand how to best steward and recognize your alumni givers.

Did anyone ever tell you, "Quit your whining?" Complaining is practically second nature for most of us, and some people have been known to raise it to an art form. The thing is, no one likes a whiner, right? Well, think again. In this article, you'll learn why letting your donors complain can actually be GOOD for your donor retention efforts!

Collaboration draws upon the unique skillsets of individuals to achieve a common goal among a group. But for specialization to work, teaming up (aka, collaboration) with others who have complementary skills is critical. And I am happy to see that’s becoming the norm in philanthropy. Putting processes in place to increase collaboration at your non-profit will help you build a stronger fundraising team.

Like dating, you have an ongoing relationship with your donors, and there is a right way and a wrong way to treat a donor— to keep them happy; to show you truly appreciate them; to “keep the romance alive.” Here's how to treat your donors the right way to make sure they keep giving again and again!

Loyal donors are more likely to make a planned giving. Nurture your loyal donors who give once or twice, and they will give lifetime. In order to nurture your loyal donors, you need to thank them, recognize them, and steward them the right way!