Loving Your Donors - Best Practice Stewardship Checklist

February is the perfect time to show your donors some love! Stewardship is all about building meaningful, long-term relationships, and just like in any great relationship, appreciation and communication matter. Taking time to thank, engage, and recognize your donors strengthens their connection to your mission and increases their likelihood of continued support. Use this checklist to ensure your donors feel valued all year long.

Lead with Heart: Build Genuine Connections

• Personalized Thank-Yous: Send prompt, heartfelt acknowledgments within 48 hours.

  • Example: Instead of a generic email, send a handwritten note or a short personalized video thanking a donor by name and mentioning their specific impact.

• Ongoing Communication: Keep donors updated through emails, newsletters, and calls.

• Celebrate Milestones: Recognize donor anniversaries, birthdays, and giving history.

  • Example: In February, send a “We Love Our Donors” email or social media shout-out featuring stories of donor impact.

Ground in Strategy: Create a Structured Approach

• Segment Your Donors: Tailor stewardship efforts based on giving level and engagement.

  • Example: Major donors receive impact reports and personal check-ins, while first-time donors get a welcome email series with stories about your mission.

• Share Impact Reports: Show how donations make a difference through stories and data.

• Engage in Person: Host a “Donor Appreciation” coffee chat in February where supporters can hear directly from beneficiaries.

Focus on Impact: Strengthen Long-Term Engagement

• Solicit Feedback: Ask for donor input through surveys or advisory groups.

• Recognize and Retain: Create donor recognition programs and ensure consistent follow-up.

  • Example: Send a heartfelt “We Appreciate You” email or small gift in February as a reminder of how important donors are to your mission.

You know what to do…keep practicing it daily.