Unlock Year-Round Donations: YMCA Fundraising Strategies

Full Platform Overview Chat With Us
Full Platform Overview Chat With Us
Is your YMCA only asking for gifts during your annual fund campaign?
If so, you’re missing out on what the rest of the nonprofit fundraising world already does: invite donors to give year-round.
Worried that might be too many appeals? Scared your donors might get tired of being asked multiple times and develop donor fatigue? Here’s the good news: as long as you properly thank your donors and report back to them on how their gift made a difference, your donors are ready to be asked again.
How can you start?
Look at your 12-month calendar. Block off whatever month is the peak of your annual fund campaign. Dedicate that month to your annual fund and make it your only ask. Likewise, if you hold a big in-person fundraiser or gala, dedicate that month to just that event rather than other asks.
Depending on when you hold your annual fund or gala, consider running any of the 29 fundraising and stewardship campaigns below in the other months.
Every winter, countless brave souls dive into icy waters for the thrill of the Polar Plunge. Why not rally your most adventurous supporters to turn this chilly challenge into a fundraiser for your YMCA? It’s a fantastic peer-to-peer event where participants enlist their social networks to sponsor their frosty dip, all in the name of a great cause. So, get your heartiest supporters ready to take the plunge and raise some funds!
Valentine’s Day is the perfect unexpected holiday to show your donors the love. How?
Pro tip: Kick off with your board giving to make sure leadership volunteers are invested in the event’s success.
Incorporating year-round fundraising into your YMCA’s strategy isn’t just a way to increase donations—it’s a way to build and deepen relationships with your donors.
Creating meaningful and varied campaigns throughout the year keeps your supporters engaged and invested in your mission. Every campaign is an opportunity to connect, to thank, and to inspire them with the lives they are changing through their generosity.
So, dive in and embrace a year-round approach. Your donors are ready, and with thoughtful planning, your YMCA will thrive all year long!
Gain a better understanding of the donor experience and how to build a loyal and passionate donor base.
Comments