Thanking your supporters and donors

Saying thank you is so important, regardless of the size of the donation. Although thanking people will be second nature to you and your church, make certain it is not forgotten.

By taking the time and care to say thank you, your donors are more likely to continue to give and spread the word about your project. They will feel valued and know their gift is appreciated.

Remember, even if a potential donor does not support you, it is still important to thank them for taking the time to hear and consider your proposal.

You could produce a short video or an album of your project to show its success and thank donors.

• Thank your supporters immediately or as soon as possible after they give.
• Continue to thank supporters regularly and keep them up-to-date with your project or church mission, if appropriate.
• Express your appreciation in a way that is personal and individual to each donor – can make a big impact and start to build a long-term relationship.
• Highlighting the differences that a donor’s gift has made can be very powerful.
• Not asking immediately for another donation. But always have a next step available – just in case a donor asks.

• Make a phone call. Always phone first when a significant donation is made.
• A special newsletter (or an article in your regular newsletter).
• Ask your supporters for their views and advice on your mission or project.
• If appropriate, invite your donors back for a thank you event such as a music evening or any events related to the project they supported.
• Produce a short video or photo album of your project to show its success and thank donors.
• Write a letter.
• Send an email.

You may want to consider:

• Acknowledgement on social media or your website.
• A donor board or plaque on the wall – remember to check if faculty permission is needed to do this.
• Use a funder’s logo on your project-supporting materials, on your website, and annual reports –but only if appropriate and the correct permissions are in place.
• Complete an annual grant update report, informing them how their grant is being spent. Most major funders require a regular update on progress.  If you are awarded a grant, you will be given more detail about how to report back to the funder.

Thanking donors encourages them to stay connected with your church – and they may become long-term supporters as a result of a simple thank you!