Introduction: As the year draws to a close, December not only marks the season of celebration but also presents a unique window of opportunity for non-profit organizations. In this post, we’ll explore strategies for non-profits to harness the spirit of giving during December, focusing on both fundraising and donor engagement.
Section 1: Unveiling the Philanthropic Potential of December December isn’t just a month of holiday cheer; it’s a time when the world is particularly attuned to the spirit of giving. This is the time to re-engage with donors and discuss fundraising efforts for the upcoming new year.
Section 2: Mastering Year-End Giving Campaigns Encourage your donors and supporters to act before the close of the fiscal year to receive tax benefits during the season of giving. Don’t be afraid to start a giving campaign or mini-fundraising event during the time of holiday cheer.
Section 3: Elevating Impact Through Storytelling Highlight the power of storytelling in fundraising. Share success stories that showcase the positive outcomes of your non-profit’s initiatives. Storytelling can evoke empathy, creating a stronger connection with donors and encouraging support during the holiday season.
Section 4: Navigating December’s Grant Landscape Identify and research grant opportunities which might be due in December. Develop a strategy and plan of action for applying to grants for the first few months of the new year. Showcase the previous year’s efforts and projects while also continuing to research grant opportunities that align with your organization’s mission and ongoing projects.
Section 5: Corporate Collaborations and Year-End Giving Initiatives Explore the potential for partnerships with businesses and corporations during the holiday season. Partner or collaborate with companies and other non-profits interested in supporting social causes and initiatives.
Section 6: Innovative Virtual Events for Donor Engagement Acknowledge the virtual landscape and its impact on events. Plan and implement creative and interactive virtual events where you can engage with donors, supporters, and volunteers.
This blog would not be complete without a fun holiday recipe to help us all reflect on the holiday season.
Please see recipe for Holiday Nutmeg Sugar Cookies below.
Nutmeg Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness (Make as thin as possible).
- Use holiday cookie cutters (or a cup for round shapes) to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden to a golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar, sprinkles, icing, or other toppings for a delightful finishing touch.
HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! SEE YOU IN 2024!
