A Holiday Touch – Use Holiday Cheer To Thank Your Major Donors
So, here we are – at the end of 2014. 
Regardless of whether or not we are ready for it (I’m not ready!), this year is coming to a close.
In these last few weeks, you are likely making your final push for support through end of the year appeals, final e-newsletters, and other communication with donors. In addition to your final fundraising push, it is important to set aside time to spread some much-deserved holiday cheer.
We have asked a lot of our donors. Sending a thank you card or holiday card with a special thank you note is a simple – but essential – way to let them know how much you appreciate them.
Here are some tips on how to make this donor “touch” most effective:
- Develop a list of major donors to whom you plan to send this holiday/end-of-the-year thank you;
- Make sure you include all board members, advisory board members, event co-chairs, and other major donors who have given their time, money, and shared their personal networks;
- Purchase beautiful, simple, appropriate thank you cards;
- Make time in your very busy schedule to prepare these thank you cards (easier said than done, I know, but this should be your foremost priority before taking off for winter break);
- Sit down and write personal and genuine thank yous to all the people who have helped you reach your fundraising goals over the year. Even if you missed your goals, these are the people you are going to need to work with again in 2015 to keep pushing forward.
For this task, focus all your energy on spreading good will and cheer (in other words, don’t ask for anything more in your personal note). Now is the time to say thank you and little else to all those who have stepped up in 2014.
Happy Holidays and New Year’s to you and yours!
