As non-profits, we often spend so much time focusing on the “ask” that we forget the most important part of the cycle: the “thank you.” As we enter February, a month synonymous with heart and appreciation, it is the perfect time to turn our attention toward donor stewardship.
Stewardship isn’t just an administrative task; it is the heartbeat of your organization’s sustainability. When you take the time to show your donors how much they mean to your mission, you aren’t just securing a gift—you are building a relationship. Here is how you can use this month to show the love and deepen those connections.
Donor Stewardship: Show the Love This February
February is a natural month to focus on appreciation. Show your donors some love with a heartfelt phone call or handwritten note. These gestures go a long way in donor retention.
How to Make Your Donors Feel Seen and Valued
Personal stewardship builds loyalty. Donors who feel valued stick around. Use this month to call key supporters and thank them specifically for what they made possible.
Why Appreciation Should Be Personal, Not Automated
Automated emails have their place, but nothing beats a personal touch. Call your donors by name, mention their last gift, and tell them what it helped accomplish. That kind of attention keeps them giving.
Valentine’s Month: The Perfect Time to Say ‘Thank You’
Valentine’s Day offers a chance to celebrate generosity. Whether it’s a quick thank-you call or a small token of appreciation, use February to deepen relationships in ways that last all year long.
At the end of the day, people give to people, not to balance sheets. A donor who feels like a hero in your story is a donor who will stay with you for the long haul. This February, challenge yourself and your team to step away from the automated systems and reach out with a personal touch. Whether it’s five phone calls a day or a stack of handwritten notes over coffee, those small investments in stewardship will pay dividends in loyalty and impact all year long.
Happy Valentine’s Month—let’s start sharing the love!