The fundraisers were nestled all snug in their chairs,
While visions of large donations danced in their heads.
Our CEO in her logo sweater, our CDO in his cap,
Had just returned from their short Holiday nap.
When out in the parking lot there arose such a clatter,
Our CEO sprang from her desk to see what was the matter.
Away to the window, they flew like a flash,
To see who was making such a loud ruckus and crash.
With an Uber driver, so lively and quick,
Straight from their desks—it was clear in a click.
More rapid than eagles, the fundraisers came,
to see who was here, and called them by name:
“It’s Sharon! And Amy! Plus Ben and his Boys!
They came with advice, not just bags full of toys.”
November and December have been so busy for us all but the week after Christmas is NOT the time to stall!
The last week of the year is crucial for fundraising because it is the grand finale of what has hopefully been an amazing year-end "giving season," when many people have been motivated by the holiday spirit (and the special work that you do) to donate.
Of course, this is coupled with the tax benefit of making donations before the year ends, leading to a significant surge in charitable giving during this period, particularly in the final days of December; essentially, many donors want to finalize their charitable giving before the new year begins to maximize their tax deductions.
?? Did you know studies say,
According to Qgiv’s research, 12% of all giving occurs in the last three days of the year, and 35% of all giving occurs in the last three months of the year.
Here are a few things to remember,
When it comes to last-minute year-end fundraising, it’s important to utilize many different channels so as to ensure you’re reaching as many donors as possible. And remember to refresh existing and potential donors on the impact they have had in 2024 ----AND they can have in the coming year. And don’t forget a last-minute email blast that says THANK YOU.
• Compile your best photos, videos, and success stories from the field and use them to showcase the amazing things your organization has done and will be able to do with the funds raised this holiday season.
• Create engaging videos, infographics, and blog posts to engage your audience. There are plenty of online tools out there to help you out, including tools that allow you to
• Mention that donations are tax-deductible.
• Link to your donation page…Make it easy to give
And remember, quotes often bring the magic of Giving to life.
Some of my favorites:
"The joy of brightening other lives becomes for us the magic of the holidays."– W.C. Jones
"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention."– Oscar Wilde
"No one has ever become poor by giving."– Anne Frank
"To give is to invest in the lives of others, building a community of compassion and connection."– Brené Brown
Happy Holidays from Team Kat & Mouse
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