Stewardship is critical as we build relationships with donors, members, and volunteers. What can that look like? Here’s a simple example from a membership renewal:
Thank you for your nine years of membership!
This simple handwritten note by a volunteer transformed a generic renewal form by acknowledging and reminding the member of their long-term commitment to the nonprofit.
The member not only renewed, they added a donation with their membership fee.
Why? They felt seen and appreciated. More importantly, they suddenly saw themselves not only as a member, but as a partner in the organization’s success.
Stewardship often happens in moments other than the “ask” — whether that’s for money or time. And it should. Regularly.
Yet as this example shows, never miss an opportunity to deepen a relationship. You never know what benefit that might bring!