How to Stand Out On #GivingTuesdayNow

All over the world, on May 5th, we will come together in support, gratitude, and response for #GivingTuesdayNow. From small villages to large cities, we will spread kindness and generosity to meet the unprecedented challenges and needs caused by COVID-19. 

How Can Nonprofits Stand Out on May 5th? 

While it may seem like the opportune time to promote your fiscal goals–this is truly a day to thank, don’t ask. 

Our Tips: 

• Use this moment to thank your donors, your team, and your community for all that they do. Use this day to remind your community how you are relevant now more than ever.
• Remind your donors and wider network about how you are pivoting your programs and serving your community during this pandemic. 
• Be real, candid, and reflect on the last few weeks. 
• Through your words of gratitude, give your donors an inside look at how your organization is shifting to meet the demands of those you serve, and remind them that they can help in this time of need. 

Timeline and Suggested Campaign Plan: 

• This week: May 5th is right around the corner. Send a communication this week if possible, such as a save-the-date. If you’re able, send a longer note to let your funders know the theme of the new Giving Tuesday and that you’re planning a new campaign for [XX] areas of your projects.
• May 4th: Send a reminder email on May 4th, with your plans for the day and clear calls to action for them to take. Don’t just make it about donations–ask them to share #unselfies, stories, and other reasons why they support you. You can use any of the tools on the #GivingTuesdayNow website to plan and share.
• May 5th: Send an email the day of and use it to promote gratitude and generosity. Don’t forget to mention that #GivingTuesdayNow is a global moment and encourage them to take part.
• May 6th or 7th: Send an email after with a big thank you for helping you spread the word and a recap of the day. This still does not have to be about money or goal-oriented, but rather can be a collection of photos from social media, a heartfelt letter, or a video message from your team, etc. Use this as an opportunity to reach out, celebrate, and share some positive news.

How Can Donors Help Their Organizations Stand Out on May 5th?

The impacts of COVID-19 are slowly unraveling to reveal incredibly difficult circumstances for nonprofits and community organizations. Use #GivingTuesdayNow as an opportunity to recognize the work of these organizations and how they are pivoting during COVID-19. 

Our Tips:

• Show support for the essential workers who’ve continued to show up to work every day to ensure our lives stay as normal as possible
• In addition to monetary donations, think of ways you can support nonprofits on this special day– build awareness by sharing your favorite nonprofit on social media, sign up to volunteer, or lend your expertise to help them meet a need right now.
• Read email updates you receive from nonprofits as they will have crucial updates on how they need your help during this crisis. 
• Consider setting up recurring smaller donations monthly, rather than a larger lump sum on #GivingTuesdayNow as this will help nonprofits make pivots and address current cash flow needs upfront. 

Together we can use #GivingTuesdayNow as an opportunity to spread positivity and generosity across the globe, while also making sure we continue to provide the support needed for many organizations at this time. I look forward to seeing how your gratitude comes to life on May 5th.