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Fundraising Tip: 10 Daily Actions for Nonprofit Fundraisers, 2025 Edition!

A brand-new list of actions you can take every day!

I have been sharing a list of ten items I do daily as a nonprofit fundraiser for several years. My current list has served me well, and after 15 years of that list, it’s time for a revised list!

If you are familiar with my work, some of these will be familiar. Each of them helps me grow relationships with donors, to brag on the program teams of the nonprofit I fundraise for, and to help me build community.

Here you go!

1. I always have my favorite playlist (Erasure/Depeche Mode) or my favorite radio station (104.5 Radio Latino) playing. Music inspires me and gets me ready to rock and roll, which is especially helpful before an important call.

2. Thank your co-workers and your team. Don’t forget those on the program teams! Together you can rock it.

3. Spend time on social media. Share what you learn from the program folks. I love LinkedIn, and many nonprofits do well on Facebook and Instagram. This is a great way to keep people, including donors and potential donors, updated with how your organization is impacting your mission.

4. Connect with a donor. I want this to happen every day. No matter your position, or how “busy” you are, no matter that the grant application is due at 5 pm. Do it. Make the call. It makes a big difference.

5. Respond to, delete, or folder your email. I try to have no more than 10 emails in my inbox at any given time. It’s easier than one may think, especially if you get in the habit of doing this. Also, don’t check your email every five minutes. Take two or three times a day to check and act on email. This will save you a lot of time.

6. Make sure recent donors have been personally thanked. Remember that the auto-thank you donors receive after an online donation does not count.

7. Read or listen. A blog. The newest fundraising book (I’m reading “Thankology” by Lisa Sargent). An amazing fundraising podcast (Two of my favorites are “The Build Good Podcast” by Mike Dueksen and “Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell”). There are many out there you can learn from. Try a book about the cause you fundraise for. Take some time to read and listen.

8. Investigate a potential corporate sponsor. Yes, this is a daily activity. If you can do more that is awesome. The more you can reach out to or check into the better.

9. Write. If you are not the one who writes copy for emails, direct mail, websites, etc., I still think writing something every day is helpful. If you are responsible for these things, writing every day will help you build a copy library for upcoming appeals. This can include stories from program teams, quotes from donors or staff, thoughts you have had on a certain topic, the list can go on and on.

10. Have a meal with your spouse. For sure. Or your significant other. Or a good friend. This action intends to practice self-care and spend time with people you love.

Take a risk. Be of service. Support your friends and colleagues. Be kind.

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