1. Resolve to ask for more money this year.  It may feel strange, but data has consistently showed that the number of donors is decreasing, but the average gift increasing.  Donors who have supported you in the past can and will give more if you  create a compelling case and share the impact of their previous support.  Always include an ask string where you suggest gift amounts based on previous giving.  

2. Resolve to encourage donors to engage with each other in a meaningful way.  Data is showing that donors who feel as if they are part of a community of donor and have relationships within those communities are most likely to keep giving.  Consider social events not focused directly on the organization, but more on the donors and their impact. Consider an exclusive volunteering day for donors.  

3. Resolve to ask 10 donors why they give to your organization every month.  There’s no need to ask them to give, just ask them why they give.  You’ll discover a significant amount of information about your donors just by asking them “why.”  That engagement and connection will be invaluable. 

4. Resolve to take at least 80% of your PTO.  You need a break, take it.  Read that again. 

5. Resolve to refresh or establish your planned giving program.  With the baby boomer generation aging and thinking about charitable intentions, now is the perfect time to establish a branded planned giving program.  The majority of planned gifts come through charitable bequests, and they are simple for the donor to establish. 

6. Resolve to update your website.  Ensure that your giving page is easy to access and simply to use to make a gift.  I “outsource” this to my twenty year old godson who is more than willing to make a gift to non-profits (using my money) and tell me his thoughts.  Today’s the day to make sure that your website has Apple Pay, too.  

About the Author

Michael J. Buckley, CFRE is a career fundraising professional and Founder and Managing Partner of The Killoe Group. His firm assists nonprofit organizations increase revenue, exposure and capacity through smart, data driven, successive decisions and effective planning. Mike’s experience and passion for the profession of fundraising have made him a sought-after speaker, consultant and presenter. The Killoe Group’s broad experiences include annual campaign audits and management, capital campaign leadership, feasibility studies, interim program leadership, board governance, strategic planning and capacity building.