Turn It Off and On Again; The Fundraising Fix You're Forgetting

If you’ve ever worked in IT (or just called tech support), you’ve probably heard the joke: “First, make sure it’s plugged in. Then, turn it off and on again.” It’s the oldest advice in the book—simple, unglamorous, and, annoyingly, it often works.

So, what’s the fundraising version of this tried-and-true troubleshooting method? It’s equally untechnical but just as critical: “Have you thanked your donors?”

Here’s the thing: Donor retention doesn’t require the flashiest CRM system or the most expensive campaign strategy (although those can help). At its core, it’s about making people feel valued. And one of the simplest ways to do that is by saying, “Thank you.”

Yet, this step is often overlooked. Maybe you assume donors know you’re grateful. Maybe you’re too busy chasing new donors to focus on the ones you already have. But skipping this step is like trying to troubleshoot a computer without checking if it’s plugged in.

Consider this: According to studies, thanking a donor within 48 hours of their gift can boost retention by as much as 39%. Organizations that prioritize timely and meaningful gratitude see stronger donor loyalty and lifetime value.

At Nonprofit Bestie, we’re all about helping you simplify and strengthen your donor relationships. A heartfelt thank-you is a powerful tool to:

So, here’s your challenge: Take five minutes to review your thank-you process. Are you sending personalized messages? Are you sharing the impact of their gift?

If not, it’s time to plug back in.

Before you launch another campaign or tweak your social media strategy, pause. Turn it off and on again by thanking your donors—personally, meaningfully, and often.

Need help crafting the perfect thank-you note or rethinking your donor stewardship? That’s what Nonprofit Bestie is here for.

Because sometimes, the simplest fixes are the most powerful.