Stewardship Doesn’t Have to Cost a Thing

Go Beyond Fundraising: The Podcast for Nonprofits

As we approach the final months of 2022, we know many of you will be focusing on your year-end campaigns. And as the threat of a global recession looms large, you may be looking for ways to tighten spending. Stewardship is often one of the programs to be scaled back. In this episode, we’re talking with David Sacchetti, Director of Client Strategy, and Kim Richardson, an Associate Vice President of Client Strategy, about why continuing stewardship is more important than ever. They’re also sharing creative ways you can steward your donors without breaking your budget. For instance, skip your customary holiday mailing in favor of a simple but thoughtful email or text. A video message from your executive director or CEO can feel personalized, even if it’s being sent to your full list. The COVID-19 pandemic led more and more people to embrace technology and adopt social media channels, so don’t shy away from communicating this way. Social media donor spotlights and video thank you messages are just a few ways you can easily reach large groups of people. The best part? These methods come with little-to-no cost. The end of the year is also an ideal time to survey your donors, which will help them feel connected to your organization. In fact, Kim shares an example of one client who raised $40,000 with a straightforward, no-ask survey. Another way to get donor feedback and build a community is to start a Facebook group. We’ll also share some recent donor outreach we’ve personally received to inspire you. But no matter how you choose to thank your supporters, the chief thing to remember is the best stewardship touch is one that makes the donor feel important. And that doesn’t have to cost a thing.