2018 is ending, and this means Giving Season is upon us! It’s that time of the year between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, which is the perfect time to get a jump start on your 2019 fundraising. People are in the holiday spirit and will likely want to support causes that mean something to them and their loved ones.
So, let’s get fundraising!
First things first, we need to talk about snail mail. Everyone loves getting traditional mail, and with an influx of holiday cards and packages coming their way, they’ll be checking their mailbox more now than ever. That is perfect timing because December is “Write a Friend Month” and December 7th is “National Letter Writing Day.” Hand-written fundraising letters are more personal than emails and are also harder to miss. Send letters to your past donors, family and friends to let them know you’re participating in the 3-Day in 2019 and that you’d love their support!
This is an especially important time to reach out to past donors. Keeping up that regular contact with loyal donors demonstrates your need for their continued support.
It also gives you the chance to show them how their past donation made a difference. Check out our Facebook albums to see how much the 3-Day in your city raised, and let your donors know how that money was used! The 3-Day also has lots of infographics that explain how their donations, past and present, are aiding in the fight against breast cancer.
These facts and figures can be printed out and included in your fundraising letter, or you can link right to them if you prefer to send out fundraising emails. Emails also give you an easy way to attach photos of you from the 3-Day or even videos from the event! Those visuals will help keep your donors engaged.
Speaking of engagement, you’ve got to engage with people on multiple fronts! The holidays can be a busy time for everyone, so don’t be surprised if donors miss one of your emails or forget to donate. So, cover all your bases just in case. Aside from emails and letters, you can also list your fundraising link in your email signature, post it on your social media or even post a reminder sign at your desk or cubicle. That way, no one can forget the 3-Day!
If you really want to get in the holiday spirit, host a “12 Days of the 3-Day” with daily posts on social media letting people know different facts about the 3-Day for 12 straight days. Use each post as an opportunity to spread the word about the 3-Day, and link to your fundraising page!
After it’s all over, celebrate a Giving Season that has helped us take steps towards Susan G. Komen’s Bold Goal. Host an appreciation party in January for everyone who donates before the end of 2018! You can use this as an added incentive to get donations through the end of the year, and as a way to thank your donors! Give back to those who have given generously to you.
Happy Holidays!
