Donor Stewardship Tips

What do donors expect from the organizations to whom they donate? Research has shown that donors are more aware than ever before of the importance of scrutinizing the charities to which they are considering contributing. What are some of the things they look for, and expect?  

1. Send donor acknowledgment letters within 24 hours of receipt of the gift.
2. Be sure you send your donors proper acknowledgement for IRS purposes, including the fact that they received no benefit in exchange for their donation, or the amount of the benefit they did receive(for example: fair market value of a dinner or golf tournament, advertising given to sponsors, etc.)
3. Be certain your 990 form is accurate and provides examples of how donors’ money is being used to directly benefit recipients of your services.
4. Publish donors’ gifts in your annual report, unless they request anonymity.
5. Always have a check box for the option to remain anonymous, and ask donors to print exactly how they do wish to be recognized if they are not making an anonymous gift.
6. Use your website to provide donors with examples of how their gifts are being used.
7. Be sure to use restricted gifts in the way the donor request.
8. Have a prudent investment policy for your funds.
9. Assure that knowledgeable people serve on your board budget and finance, and have an audit committee to assure proper audits are done on a timely basis.
10. Commit to and publish the Donor Bill of Rights.

If you need help with your donor acknowledgement, recognition, and stewardship program, contact CAPITAL VENTURE to help you establish policies and procedures for your development program.

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