We’re reposting this graphic because it got a lot of traction recently.
Most organizations don’t realize that after their donors make a gift the donor doesn’ know what happened and they don’t know if their gift made a difference.
So the job of your follow-up communications are to convince your donors that their gift made a real, important difference!
Your Thanks You’s / Receipts should tell each donor that their gift was received, that it matters, and that is is appreciated.
Your Reports (Newsletters, usually) should show her how her gift helped make a difference in the life of a beneficiary.
If you Thank and Report well, each donor will know their gift made a difference. And because they know their gift made a difference, they are FAR more likely to give your organization another gift.
So, do your donor communications close the loop? Do your donors know their gifts made a difference?
If not, you have some work to do (and you should get in touch!). And if you are Thanking and Reporting well, I hope you enjoy all the money you’re raising!