January is Stewardship

January 9, 2024

As we embark on the year ahead in 2024 and all of the hard work that went into all-things-year-end in 2023, let’s take a step back and remember that January (and Q1) is stewardship.

The following are a few things to keep in mind as you develop stewardship, cultivation and appreciation plan for donors at the top of this year, with all of the hope it brings .

1) Getting to know you

Use this as an opportunity to select just a few donors to focus upon each month, and get to truly know them. This is how we eradicate the transactional model of fundraising. First, do your research and then, find a time for a Zoom chat, in-person coffee meeting or phone call to continue cultivating the relationship. And remember, it’s not about quantity; it’s about quality.

2) Personal note

The art of the hand-written, personal note, just to say “Hello” and thank you can work wonders. In addition to those in idea number 1, choose one donor to whom you can write a note, and do this at least once per week through Q1.

3) fundraising is not unlike life!

Just as with our families and friends, no one likes to only hear from someone when they need something or are going to ask for money. So, be sure to have real relationships with your donors and use this time to thank them for any year-end gifts and for all that they do.

4) Updates

Keep your donors informed of what’s to come in the year ahead and send out a general save the date now for many things. This can be a useful tool to learn more about particular donors’ motivations and just why they give to your organization.

Think of it as a menu of sorts, and when you begin to notice what people are excited about, this can be a way to “take the temperature” around events, initiatives, etc.

5) Deconstructing Development

Watch the special December 2023 episode of Deconstructing Development, which has many of the tips above and more, all about looking ahead to stewardship in the New Year.