Beyond A Thank You Note: Building A Donor Communication Plan

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Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits

Matt Stockman

30 episodes

3 days ago

Launch and grow your nonprofit with confidence! The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits is your weekly resource for nonprofit startup advice, nonprofit growth strategies, and practical tips for nonprofit leadership. Whether you're dreaming of starting a nonprofit organization, navigating the challenges of a new role, or looking to scale your impact, this podcast provides actionable insights. Learn nonprofit best practices based around the 6 critical elements that any nonprofit needs to grow foundationally strong: Leadership, Development, Marketing, Programs and Services, Operations, and Finances. Learn effective fundraising strategies, and essential nonprofit management techniques. Get nonprofit coaching and access free nonprofit resources to build your nonprofit capacity and achieve nonprofit success. Join Matt Stockman, a seasoned nonprofit growth coach, as we explore nonprofit development and provide the guidance you need to make a lasting difference. Tune in for weekly episodes filled with nonprofit tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice to help you grow a nonprofit that thrives. If you are looking for nonprofit training or ways to improve your nonprofit strategy, this podcast is for you.

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Non-Profit

Business,

Entrepreneurship

Beyond A Thank You Note: Building A Donor Communication Plan

Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits

21 minutes

3 months ago

Beyond A Thank You Note: Building A Donor Communication Plan

In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman addresses a common fear among nonprofit leaders: annoying their donors. He explains that most donors actually stop giving because they don't hear from the organization, not because they lose interest. Matt breaks down why donor communication isn't a transactional obligation, but a way to build a relationship based on trust and consistency. He shares a powerful story of a nonprofit leader who only communicated during a campaign and was essentially "ghosting" their donors. He argues that a donor's financial gift is an intimate act, a desire for a relationship with your organization.

Matt provides a practical framework to build a systematic and sincere communication rhythm that will help you grow a donor base that is loyal and engaged for the long term.

In this episode, you will learn:

The Donor Communication Rhythm: Matt outlines a four-step framework for staying in touch with donors:
Immediate Thank You (within 48 hours): This should be a personal touch—a phone call, a handwritten note, or a video message—that is separate from the automated gift receipt.
Impact Follow-up (within a few weeks): Share a specific story or update on how the donor's gift was used to make a difference.
Ongoing Rhythm (at least monthly): Integrate donors into a regular communication flow, such as a monthly newsletter or impact story email.
Special Touches (throughout the year): Add personal touches on a donor's birthday or the anniversary of their first gift to remind them you see them as an individual.

Pro Tips for Donor Communication: Matt offers additional advice for building strong relationships, including:
Mix it up: Use a variety of communication methods like email, phone calls, and handwritten notes.
Keep it donor-centered: Always make the donor the hero of the story. For example, instead of "Our nonprofit raised $10,000," say, "Because of your generosity, you helped put meals on 50 family tables".
Don't overthink it: Sincerity beats polish every time. A heartfelt message today is better than a perfect one a month from now.
Batch your work: Matt encourages leaders to dedicate intentional time each week to donor communication to make it a consistent habit that isn't overwhelming.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: A free workbook and five short videos to help you get clarity on your fundraising messaging and create a game plan. Available for free on the website, www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com.
"From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist": A free PDF with 10 essential steps for moving from a nonprofit idea to a launch plan. Get it by emailing Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com or looking for it on the website.

Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan

Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com

Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn

Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits