10 Easy Ways to Ignite Year-End Giving

By Kristi Posewitz, TPF’s Director of Marketing

Full of family time and holiday traditions, the final months of our calendar year present the perfect opportunity for donors and church members to reconnect with what is most important to them and prepare for a fresh start in the coming year. Generosity thrives as people look to support their church and favorite nonprofit during this time.

As we all know, the end-of-year giving season lasts from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve, and this is a big deal for those of us working to enable and expand mission. Nearly 1/3 (31%) of annual giving occurs in December, and 12% of all giving happens in the last three days of the year.
(Source: Nonprofit Tech for Good)

Even if you are just starting now, it’s not too late! You can still make the most of this seasonal generosity. The following lists 10 simple strategies you can implement today to increase the impact of your gifts:

1. Be true to yourself. This is the perfect time to creatively remind your audience WHO you are and WHY they should give to your church or nonprofit.
2. Ask for more. Do not be afraid. The average gift size increases during this time of year, so it just makes sense to increase your ask.
3. Keep it simple. Focus on what’s most important to your donor by highlighting your purpose and the reason for the gift. You don’t want to confuse people with unnecessary paragraphs of content in any of your communications.
4. Talk about it. And not just once. From now until the end-of-the year, generosity should be a part of every conversation.
5. Watch your language. What you say matters. For example, do not use the word “donate.” Instead, use other words that ask donors and church members to partner with you such as “join” or “build.”
6. Send frequent emails. Focus on what you want your audience to do. Be sure to add the giving opportunity call to action near the top of the communication.
7. Use your social media. These channels provide great opportunities to spread the word. Don’t forget to use them in your efforts to communicate with your different audiences.
8. Integrate your website. Whether it’s pop-ups or set content, it’s critical that your Web presence helps promote your year-end giving campaign.
9. Leverage your fans and influencers. Reach out to them personally and ask them to spread the word. Whether it’s a Minute for Mission or via social media, there are so many ways this group can help support your efforts.
10. Say thank you. This is your step in preparation for next year. Generosity must be nurtured and appreciated. Your best bet? Find a creative way to say thank you that will be meaningful for everyone involved.

Do you need a little extra help? TPF provides complimentary print and digital tools that can be used for anything from a bulletin insert to a hero graphic on your website. CLICK HERE to order yours today.