Thank fast, thank specifically
A thank-you within 48 hours is worth more than a beautiful one a month later. Name the person, name what their amount does, and skip the newsletter voice.
The four messages that matter
- 1The immediate thank-you
Short, personal, from a named human at the organisation.
- 2The 'we made it' update
Posted to everyone following the campaign when the raise closes, with the total and what happens next.
- 3The proof update
Photos of the thing that was bought or the programme running. This is the message that earns the next gift.
- 4The anniversary note
A year later, a line about what that money is still doing. Almost nobody sends this, which is why it works.
Keep the list
Your backer list is the most valuable thing a campaign produces. Record who gave, at what tier, and whether they are local — and ask permission before adding anyone to a general mailing list.
Common questions
Should we thank people publicly?
Only with their permission. Some supporters want the recognition, others deliberately do not.
How often should we contact backers afterwards?
A few times a year with something real to report beats a monthly newsletter nobody opens.
Keep reading
How churches, youth sports, community groups and registered nonprofits run a reward-based fundraising campaign — with a reduced platform fee and EIN verification.
How to fulfil what you promised without losing money or goodwill: tracking, timelines, postage, and what to do when something slips.