Most nonprofits are leaking donors like crazy. They acquire; they don’t retain. On average folks lose 8 out of 10 donors after the first gift. While donors want to change the world with their gifts, most want something else too. It’s intangible, but it’s important. And if you won’t give it to them, someone else will. The important social acknowledgement and identity reinforcement that comes from a heartfelt, thoughtful thank you cannot be underestimated. Truly, how and when you thank your donors can make or break your entire fundraising program.

1. Creative Thank Yous and Cultivating
an Attitude of Gratitude
@donorguru

7. Broken Ratios
Gave on 12/2/14
Re-solicited- SAME DAY
Email Solicitations- 79
Thank You- 1?
Mail Solicitations- 12

8. “These emails are a part of
our fundraising during this
holiday season; they are
prepared months in advance
and are sent out
automatically to all those on
our email list.”
Christina
Donor Services Representative

9. Gave on 12/2/14
Re-solicited- 3 DAYS
Email Solicitations- 51
Thank You- 2
Mail Solicitations- 7

11. Treat Behavior not
Transactions!!
•It’s about the
DONOR not YOU.

14. LYBUNT and SYBUNT doesn’t CUT it!
Reports you need to have:
1. Consecutive Donor Report
2. First-Time Donor Report
3. Donor Retention Report
4. Donor Giving Channel Report
5. Lapsed Donor Reacquire Report
6. Donor Increase Report

22. First Time Donor Journey
• <30 Days – Postcard or Email
• <3 Months- Phone call from Volunteer
• <6 Months- Hand Written Note
• <11 Months Impact Report
• THEN and Only Then…

25. Results
$234,785

35. THANK YOU!
• Lynne M. Wester
• @donorguru
• Connect with me!
• www.donorrelationsguru.com
• lynne@donorrelationsguru.com