The year-end fundraising season is just around the corner, and if you haven’t started warming up your donors yet, don’t worry — you’re not too late! There are a few simple, cost-free ways to engage your donors NOW to ensure that when your big year-end ask comes, they’ll feel connected to your cause and ready to show their support.

Here are three easy actions you can take this week to start building that donor excitement:

1. Send a Personal Email Update

When was the last time you sent a personal, no-ask update to your supporters? This isn’t a mass newsletter — it’s a heartfelt, 1:1 message sent to your core donors, letting them know what’s been happening in your organization. Highlight a recent success, share a story from someone you’ve helped, or simply thank them for being such an important part of your mission.

How to Do It:

• When: Any time this week. The sooner, the better!

• Who: Focus on major donors, recurring givers, and those who regularly engage with your content. This option also is a great way to reconnect with lapsed donors.

• How: Keep the email short, informal, and warm. Include a personal detail if possible —something like, "I remember you were passionate about our literacy program, and I’m excited to share we’ve just launched a new initiative!" The goal is to remind them they’re valued and keep your organization top of mind without an ask.

2. Shout Outs to Donors on Social Media

People love being acknowledged, and a public shout-out is one of the easiest ways to make a donor feel appreciated. Pick a few loyal supporters and thank them on your social media channels for their ongoing support, participation in an event, or impact on a recent campaign. You will not only show gratitude for that individual donor, but you will also show your broader audience how much you value your supporters.

How to Do It:

• When: Choose a few days next week to spread out your shout-outs and create ongoing engagement.

• Who: Tag individual donors who have recently given or consistently support your mission. Avoid mentioning donation amounts but focus on the impact of their contributions.

• How: Use a photo (with permission) or even create a quick Canva graphic that highlights the donor and thanks them for their impact. Keep it brief and positive, something like, "A huge thank you to Sarah, whose generous support helped us provide meals to 50 families last month!"

3. Send a Handwritten Thank You Note

There’s something timeless about a handwritten note, and it’s one of the simplest ways to create a meaningful donor touch. With so much communication happening digitally, taking a few minutes to write a thoughtful, personalized thank-you card can stand out in a big way.

How to Do It:

• When: Anytime this month, but ideally within the next two weeks as you ramp up for year-end outreach.

• Who: Focus on a few key supporters — perhaps a few individuals who’ve recently made gifts. You don’t need to write dozens of cards. Even sending a handful will have a meaningful impact.

• How: Keep it sincere but brief. Mention something specific about their contribution or involvement, such as, "Your ongoing support means so much to us, and we couldn’t have launched our new program without your help." Make sure to sign it by hand — no digital signatures here!

These quick and easy actions can make a world of difference in keeping your donors engaged and feeling appreciated as you head into your year-end fundraising push. For more ideas on how to warm up your donors, be sure to download my full freebie, Warm Touches to Ignite Your Donors which includes more than a dozen actionable ideas you can start using today! Grab it HERE.