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22. Invite donors to events. Beyond galas and auctions, invite them to graduations, backstage cast parties, VIP briefings. Make them feel like they’re “in” on things.
23. After an event, send donors pictures of themselves with their friends.
24. Send a newsletter (at least quarterly) and annual report to keep donors informed.
25. Send updates about the fundraising status of projects (include photos and live webcam video of construction, etc.).
26.Send keepsakes from a major-gift announcement or event — memory books, albums, framed photographs, DVDs.
27. Take out a thank-you ad in the local newspaper.
28.Send your audited financial statements.
29.Nominate your donors for awards.
30. Ask your donors to read a draft copy of your case statement. Solicit their feedback.
31. With corporations and foundations, send handwritten notes. Form letters go into your file — handwritten notes get circulated around the office.
32. Introduce donor to the leaders of the organization — board members, administrative officials and program staff.
33. Attach personal messages to your direct mail.
34. Ask donors to host receptions or gatherings of select donors and prospects to promote the successes of the organization or to inform donors and prospects about the progress of a program.
35. Ask donor if they have friends or colleagues who’d be interested in your organization.
36. Join prospects at concerts, races, games, walks or other events when they extend invitations to do so.
37. Have the leaders of the organization periodically call, write personal notes or e-mail prospects after they’ve met, just to keep them informed about the organization.
38. Attend your donors’ events, such as office holiday open houses or the new branch ribbon cuttings. You expect them to attend your events.
39. Promptly follow up on their inquiries.
40. If you work for a university or school, send the school newsletter occasionally.
41. Send handwritten notes to people you normally only exchange e-mails with.
42. Ask your donors to tell you their stories about your cause.
43. Bring donors along to the airport to pick up celebrities and other special guests for your events.
44. If the organization is given an award, invite donors to attend the award ceremony.
45. Send a thank-you note for no reason that says, “I was watching the kids on the playground, and I thought about how you made it happen. Thank you for your support of the youth center.”
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