5 Reasons Donor Stewardship Matters
Donor stewardship is important because people are important. As believers, we value and prioritize the role people play in carrying out the mission of Christ — to spread the good news of the Gospel. Additionally, as faith-based leaders, we understand that people are our greatest asset in fulfilling our mission.
Did you know that typical donor attrition hovers around 40%? This means that of your entire donor base, only about 40% will continue to give to your organization. Interestingly, donor retention increases to around 58% if at just one thank-you call is made to the donor within 90 days of their gift! These figures paint a picture of how important it is to take care of and encourage the people who continue giving to your organization. Even small touches make a big impact!
At Three Strands, we refer to financial donors as partners in ministry. We recognize that your partners fuel the work of your organization. Not only is it important to encourage, thank, and affirm our financial partners, it’s important to communicate with them, bring them into the vision and mission of the organization, and offer them continued opportunities to grow their influence and ministry through your mission.
Below are five reasons partner stewardship is crucial for your faith-based nonprofit or church:
We are called to steward people well | The Bible says that overseers and leaders are God’s stewards (Titus 1:7). It is a responsibility and honor to steward the people God has entrusted to your organization - including your financial partners. Many organizations are preoccupied with financial stewardship, but God is pleased when people are stewarded well.
Partners fuel your mission | Without financial partners, your organization would be unable to carry out ministry. Partners are the fuel that makes your organization run! Building genuine relationships and showing authentic care for your partners will help them not only feel valued, but also encourage them to continue partnering with and supporting your mission and vision.
Partners are not just givers - they’re do-ers | When a partner feels like a valued part of your organization, they’ll become advocates of your mission. Not only will they give, they’ll tell their friends and family about your cause, share your Facebook posts, promote your events, and more. Partners become vital ambassadors for the growth of your organization or church.
Partners are shareholders and deserve to be treated as such | Again, without partners, ministry doesn’t happen. Partners are shareholders in the mission of your organization and deserve to be updated, receive regular reports, and have transparency.
Your Organization will Grow | Did you know that typical donor attrition hovers around 40%? This means that of your entire donor base, only about 40% will continue to give to your organization. Interestingly, donor retention increases to around 58% if at just one thank-you call is made to the donor within 90 days of their gift! These figures paint a picture of how important it is to take care of and encourage the people who continue giving to your organization. Even small touches make a big impact!
Are you ready to implement a donor stewardship process but need support making it happen? Schedule a free consultation today to learn how a support specialist can walk by your side and partner with you as you steward your donors.