You’ve most likely read that giving days/year-end/holidays are a really good time to ask your monthly donors for an extra gift. It’s true, especially with that special personal touch.
But that brings up the next question: Should you send a thank-you letter to your monthly donors for that extra gift? You’re most likely not sending thank-you letters for their ongoing monthly gifts now.
My recommendation is an unequivocal YES. Do send a thank-you letter for the extra gift your monthly donor has made, even if it was made online.
They’ve done something above and beyond. If you can, give that letter a personal touch with a personal note on it, again recognizing them for their very special support.
Words of caution though: if you typically include an invitation to give monthly in your thank-you letters, make sure that you send them a different version. It’s all about letting the monthly donor know that you know that they’re already giving monthly.
And, as you’re starting to get ready for your tax overview come January, make sure that you include ALL gifts the monthly donor made, including any extra gift(s). One total amount of all their gifts in the prior calendar year is ideal.
So, as Giving Tuesday nears and you’re getting your holiday appeals in the mail and email, take your thank-you letter and tax overview into consideration. Happy asking and thanking!
Originally posted by NonProfitPRO on November 11, 2019.
