How to Ensure Continued Donations for Your Agency or School

While working as a Youth Counselor for a non-profit agency, I often relied on donations from businesses,corporate sponsors and local agencies. These donations were greatly appreciated, especially since the non - profit I worked for had a tight annual budget. Getting a donation for your agency or company might prove simple. Receiving a future donation from the same source takes a bit of work and follow up.

Contact The Local Paper

With advanced notice, many newspapers cover local and community events. Check with your local newspaper provider to see if they have a community insert to the paper related to your neighborhood. Individuals living in smaller communities might contact local once a week papers for coverage. Ask the reporter to mention the sponsors and companies who donated to the event. Another suggestion related to the paper, is to arrange a photo opportunity for the company that donated. A picture can be included with the article showing checks or items being given to your agency.

Thanks You Notes
In today's computer age, a gracious thank you note is often forgotten. While email is more convenient, a mailed thank you note can be posted in the company's office. Also include a note in an editorial in the local paper, thanking the business for their help. This ensures the company receives publicity and they will be more likely to donate next time you need assistance.

Yearly Plaques, Awards, Trophies
Some companies and non - profits agencies offer yearly banquets to show off their successes and to honor volunteers for the previous year. Invite any company who has donated supplies or services during the last year. Make sure you include all important people in the invitation. Nothing is more embarrassing than forgetting the CEO of the company. Have an award created, expressing your agencies gratitude for the gifts received during the last year. My agency included local donors in their award ceremony at the end of the banquet. This gave them recognition and a chance to have their picture in the local paper with their award.

Keep a List of Donors
Keep a list of those who donated during the last year. Be sure to invite them to any event your agency has. Merely getting donations and never contacting them again, makes a donor feel used. Show appreciation by remembering them during the company picnic or the Christmas party. They will appreciate the invite and are more apt to help next year.

Your grandmother probably told you courtesy goes a long way. By remembering companies and businesses that donate items, goods and services, you are increasing chances of future donations. Everyone loves being mentioned and appreciated for what they do - even big businesses.