The Twelve Days of Donor Stewardship
As Christmas approaches, our calendars fill up with parties, pageants, shopping, and travel.
For fundraisers, it’s also one of the busiest, and most fruitful, times of the year. December is when generosity shines brightest, and it’s the perfect season to show gratitude to the donors who make your mission possible.
Instead of humming along to “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” what if you used that classic tune as inspiration for your donor stewardship? Here are twelve ways to say thank you and deepen donor relationships this Christmas season.
Day 1: A Handwritten Note
A simple, sincere handwritten thank-you card stands out more than any email. Take a few minutes each day to write to key donors.
Day 2: A Quick Call
Call a donor just to say thank you, no ask attached. Even a two-minute voicemail can leave a lasting impression.
Day 3: A Christmas Card
Send a holiday card that includes a blessing, scripture verse, or personal note from your staff or students.
Day 4: A Social Media Shout-Out
Celebrate your donors publicly (when appropriate). Share a “gratitude post” that highlights the impact of their support.
Day 5: A Holiday Treat
Drop off cookies, cocoa packets, or even a small bag of coffee beans with a thank-you tag. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, just heartfelt.
Day 6: A Story of Impact
Email donors a short story of someone transformed by your ministry this year. Tie it to the season of hope and renewal.
Day 7: A Personal Visit
Stop by a donor’s office or home to deliver thanks in person. Even a short visit can deepen trust and connection.
Day 8: A Student or Volunteer Thank-You
Invite students, beneficiaries, or volunteers to sign a group card or film a short video greeting for donors.
Day 9: A Token of Mission
Give a small symbol of your mission (an ornament, bookmark, or prayer card) that connects donors to the work they support.
Day 10: A Year-End Update
Share highlights from the year. It is ok to include both successes and challenges. Transparency builds confidence.
Day 11: A Christmas Prayer
Offer to pray for donors and their families during the season. A handwritten list in your chapel or office is a powerful gesture.
Day 12: A New Year’s Blessing
Send a message of hope for the year ahead, reminding donors they are part of the story moving forward.
Why This Matters
Don’t get us wrong, stewardship isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about building genuine relationships rooted in gratitude. In the rush of year-end appeals, remember that thankfulness has its own power. Every note, call, or gesture of kindness helps donors see they are valued not just for their gifts, but for who they are.
As you celebrate this Christmas season, let your stewardship be as joyful and creative as your fundraising. After all, generosity grows when it is nurtured with gratitude.
Would you like this donor stewardship information in a downloadable checklist? If so, click HERE!
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