By Mindy Sherfy, Director of Client Support
Ah, those glorious moments as we enjoy the early days of fall. While you might still be savoring one more weekend at the lake or enjoying cooler temps, a quick trip to any of the big box stores will very quickly remind you that CHRISTMAS IS COMING!!!
On a personal level, I cringe as garland and lights fill the shelves… before kids have started carving pumpkins or families have gathered to give thanks. It just seems too early! But as a fundraiser, I also recognize the importance of starting early to maximize your potential outcome.
So following the example of mega retailers, let’s be sure your organization is positioning itself to reap the benefits of one of the biggest fundraising days of the year: Giving Tuesday.
In 2020, at least $2.47 billion was donated during the 24 hours of Giving Tuesday in the U.S. alone. And 13% of the adult population participated by offering gifts of time, voice, skills, goods and money, as well as countless acts of kindness that were inspired by the movement.
(source: givingtuesday.org/about/news/)
So how can YOU build up the thrill of Giving Tuesday for your donors? Here are tips on how you can start preparing right now to lead up to this important day of nonprofit giving!
Getting Started
Craft your Giving Tuesday message.
It’s not just about your organization getting, it’s about your donors being part of a global movement to give back to your community. It’s also a time to promote and build upon what your organization does to give back, too! Make sure your messaging is centered on the opportunity for your supporters to be part of this special day by partnering with you!
Communicate “Save the date!”
Remind your donors of the upcoming opportunity to give. Start posting to your social media accounts to get Giving Tuesday on people’s radars already. Consider a postcard, thank you receipt stuffer or voicemail blast to get things started and get them inspired well before the event.
Building Excitement
Consistency is key.
Continue posting 2-3 times per week on your social media sites to share more details about your Giving Tuesday events, plans and related activities. Be sure to include some inspirational ideas that will build excitement and kickstart your followers’ interest in giving back to your community today.
A few quick ideas to get you started:
- Challenge young people to clean out their closets and donate in-kind goods to your local thrift store.
- Ask donors to invite their co-workers to put their lunch money in a jar every time they bring a sack lunch and to donate the funds in the jar to your organization on Giving Tuesday.
- Encourage commuters to tape bus fare to a local bus stop for someone in need.
Go local.
Pitch a press release about your Giving Tuesday campaign to local media. Share a story that shows the impact your organization is making and your commitment to strengthening your local community.
Around the Big Day
Countdown to Giving Tuesday!
Amp up your social media as Giving Tuesday approaches. Consider pairing each reminder with a photo and caption-length story or quote from people your organization has helped. Use videos and Facebook Live to highlight acts of kindness from your donors, ambassadors and volunteers to inspire others.
Remember, it doesn’t end with Giving Tuesday…
Thank your donors! Report results and stay connected to all those who raised their hands and said, “I care. I want to be part of the change you’re making in our community.” Invite them to join your monthly giving program and make a year-round impact.
I hope that while you’re squeezing every moment out of these early days of fall you’re also thinking ahead to one of the best days of the year for fundraising.
If you’re feeling inspired and would like more ideas to jumpstart your Giving Tuesday campaign, download our guide “Making the Most of Giving Tuesday” today!
