Summer is here, which means Q4 planning is well underway. Before you finalize this year’s fundraising calendar, it’s worth asking: what will you actually do differently this year to get a better result by December 31st?
Here are four ideas worth trying this fall.
1. Rethink your direct mail
Instead of another polished, corporate-looking appeal, try something less produced and more personal: a letter that tells a real story. Direct mail remains one of the highest-ROI channels available, and by December you should be seeing a return of 10:1 or better. If you’re not there, it may be time to rework the approach.
2. Run a Thank-a-Thon in November
Set aside time to call your most faithful donors—not to ask for anything, just to say thank you. It’s one of the simplest ways to strengthen loyalty before your year-end ask lands.
3. Give your major donors a personal touch
A handwritten note goes a long way. A phone call goes even further. Aim for at least one meaningful touchpoint every six weeks with your top supporters. By the time you make the year-end ask, it won’t feel like a transaction.
4. Get your digital house in order
Your website should be ready for the Q4 giving surge, and your social media presence should reflect platform best practices. Use reels to tell your best stories from the year; the moments that remind people why your work matters.
There’s a lot more that can be done to strengthen your year-end results, and we’d love to talk through what makes sense for your organization.
Reach out anytime—no cost, no obligation.
