What if that year-end gift was the beginning of a conversation instead of the end of one? Here’s a simple 4-step approach to follow up well and build lasting partnerships.
Did you know nearly one-third of all charitable giving in the U.S. happens at year-end? If you’re in ministry or nonprofit work, you likely see an increase in generosity over the holidays. That’s worth celebrating.
But once the gifts are received and the calendar turns, an important question remains:
What happens next?
What if that gift wasn’t the end of the story? What if it were the start of a conversation and the beginning of a partnership?
At Reliant, we train people to build long-term sustainability through recurring support. Still, when a one-time blessing comes in, especially during the holidays, it’s easy to treat it as just that.
In reality, most first-time gifts are testing gifts. Donors are exploring. They’re asking, often silently: Can I trust this ministry? Is my gift going to make a difference? Do I want to go deeper here?
Your role isn’t to push for another donation. It’s to respond well, to show them what their generosity accomplished, and to invite them into something meaningful over time.
A holiday gift isn’t just a transaction. It’s an open door to continue the conversation.
A Simple 4-Step Process to Continue the Conversation
Here’s a straightforward, relational way to follow up with a single-gift donor, without awkwardness or urgency-driven asks.
1. THANK
Start with sincere gratitude.
This can be a phone call, a text message, or a handwritten note. Tell them plainly how thankful you are and how encouraged you were by their generosity. Let them know their gift mattered to you personally.
This is not the moment to ask for anything else. Simply say thank you and mean it.
2. SHOW
Next, show them the impact of their gift.
People give because they want to make a difference. Help them see that they did.
For example:
“I just had to tell you what your gift made possible. Five students heard the gospel for the first time last week. Here’s what happened…”
This step builds trust. It demonstrates stewardship. In fundraising terms, it shows ROI—the return on their investment. In ministry terms, it shows fruit.
Again, resist the urge to ask for another gift. Let the impact speak for itself.
3. CONNECT
Now, move beyond the transaction.
Invite them into a relationship. Ask how you can pray for them. Invite them to an outreach event or a gathering. Share a resource that encouraged you: a podcast, a Scripture, an update from your ministry.
The point is simple: remind them they are more than a donor. They are a person, and potentially a partner.
Still, no financial ask.
4. INVITE
Only after you’ve thanked them, shown impact, and built connection is it time to invite them to go deeper.
This might be an invitation to give again or to consider becoming a recurring partner. Reiterate the difference their first gift made, then cast vision for what could happen next if they chose to stay involved.
An invitation isn’t pressure. It’s an opportunity.
This four-step process isn’t a one-time formula. It’s a rhythm you can repeat throughout the year.
What to Do Today
If this feels overwhelming, keep it simple.
Start here:
- Thank your donor, if you haven’t already.
- Then set a few reminders:
- 2 months: Share an impact story.
- 4 months: Reach out with a personal connection.
- 6 months: Offer an opportunity to give again.
Small, intentional touchpoints over time build trust, and trust builds partnership.
Why This Matters
When donors feel seen and valued, they stick around. They give more consistently. And most importantly, they grow spiritually through meaningful partnership in the work of the gospel.
Consider Malachi 3:10-12.
10Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. 12“Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.
This isn’t just about fundraising. It’s discipleship.
Start Today
Thank one donor today. Then schedule your next two touchpoints.
That single holiday gift might be the beginning of a partnership that lasts for years.
For more practical training and resources, visit Reliant.org.
