Practical strategies for building a fundraising program that lasts — stronger donor relationships, smarter operations, and transition-ready systems. In your inbox, every other Wednesday.
Two priorities for December (everything else can wait)
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December is here, which means your inbox is probably exploding and your to-do list feels impossible. The good news? Most of it can wait. This month, the priority should be two things: gifts and gratitude. Everything else goes on the list for January. Whether you have a full team or are in the middle of a staff transition, focusing in will help drive results - and prevent burnout. Focus on GIFTS. Your printed appeal has landed in mailboxes, Giving Tuesday has passed, and year-end emails are under final review (or getting close!). What's left is personal follow-up - and this is what will move the needle most. But who?
Working toward a match or specific goal? Focus on donors already deeply connected to your work. Tell them what you're trying to accomplish and invite them to join you. Focus on GRATITUDE. Automation is helpful, and you should use it where you can - but to set the foundation for a successful 2026? Personal connection has to be the priority. Handwritten notes on thank you letters are an excellent start. Then pick up the phone. They'll be glad to know their gift arrived (especially if they sent in a check or made a stock transfer, etc.) and that it matters - voicemails work too! What I've seen work best? Divide the calls across your team and make them at the end of each day. Once the list piles up, it's nearly impossible to catch up - especially this month. Get clear on WHO DOES WHAT. If you have a team, break it down:
However you do it, get specific. Otherwise, people fall through the cracks. Everything else? JANUARY. New projects. Strategic planning. Process improvements. System updates. Write them down. Schedule time in January. But for now, protect your time for what matters: closing gifts and thanking donors. This work - the follow-ups, the calls, the personal connections - sets up your fundraising for the entire next year. How do you plan to tackle the December chaos? P.S. Searching for a new development director but need help keeping fundraising steady in the meantime? I just launched a Development Transition Roadmap service - a structured plan to assess risk, organize your team, and guide your search without the full interim investment. Introductory pricing available through January 31st. |
Built to Raise
Practical strategies for building a fundraising program that lasts — stronger donor relationships, smarter operations, and transition-ready systems. In your inbox, every other Wednesday.
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