Many organizations survive predominantly or at least partly through the kind contributions of numerous donors. However, the significant role donors play in keeping an organization afloat can often go overlooked.
The best way to keep donations coming in is to show real gratitude for them when they do. Many companies may send a thank you card or gifts on holidays, but is that enough? Some would argue not. It’s a nice gesture, but there are better ways to show appreciation.
We’ve compiled a small list of 4 ways you can show gratitude to your donors. From donor recognition advice from OmniAlly regarding digital recognition signage, to providing meaningful progress reports, we’ve got showing gratitude down to a fine art. Let’s jump in!
1. Donor Recognition Walls
If you’re looking for a modern and engaging away to demonstrate your gratitude, look no further than donor recognition walls. These eye-catching displays allow you to show appreciation in a unique way; perfect for events your donors may be attending.
These screens can contain moving information on how much money your donors have raised in total and the differences they’ve helped to enact. You could include a list of names or include a QR code for more information on the relevant campaign. Get creative!
2. Produce Thank-You Videos
This is far more interactive than a thank-you note in the post. It also feels much more personal. Producing specific videos addressed to your donors is a great way to make them feel appreciated. Through these videos, you can share information and imagery on how their donations have helped your organization.
Videos are also a great way to form a sense of personal connection. Witnessing a human being say thank you is very different from simply seeing it written on a card. They’re additionally easy to share around, either through email or social media, which makes the delivery much simpler.
3. Promote Donors on Social Media
Donors often provide to an organization because they support the company’s efforts, but recognition goes a long way too. Donations aren’t a selfish act, but we all like to feel appreciated when we feel we’ve done a good thing. Social media can help with that.
Providing shout-outs or celebratory posts dedicated to previous and current donors lets them know you value them. It doesn’t have to be anything excessively sentimental. Even just information relating to the practical benefits from their donation can mean a lot.
4. Share Information on Progress
Speaking of practical information, progress reports are a wonderful way to express gratitude to donors. It may sound unnecessarily formal, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the progress reports you share can be fun and creative if that suits your brand!
Essentially the aim of these reports is to show where the donor’s money has gone. You don’t need to be absolutely specific. Instead, point to expansions that have been made within your organization via the money raised. Alternatively, highlight the continued work you’ve been able to do via the donations.
You want to include any information that tells a donor the money they’ve shared has been worthwhile. No one wants to think they’ve wasted their money, especially not when they’ve tried to do a good deed. To really flesh out your progress updates, use relevant photos and images to back up your statements. Make the donor feel like part of the company and you’ll earn some loyalty.
Gratitude is Personal, so Make it Personal!
You should be grateful for the donations you receive, so make sure to express that gratitude in a meaningful way. Whether it’s via a super-modern digital recognition wall or a friendly social media post, it’s imperative your donors know they are valued!
