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Acquisition strategies get a lot of attention. Every organization wants to see their donor list grow. However, increasing your organization’s total number of donors is only one part of a successful fundraising strategy. In the midst of day-to-day busyness and the added hustle around holidays, National Philanthropy Day is a welcome reminder to pause and consider the bigger picture: why we do what we do and how we can increase our impact.

Founded in 1986 by Douglas Freeman and formalized by Ronald Reagan, National Philanthropy Day is a day to honor the charitable activities that individuals and organizations do to make a difference in their communities.

Coincidentally, The Lukens Company (TLC) got its start in 1986 and has since served countless nonprofits of various sizes and categories. We strive to be a true partner so we can provide expert and empathetic guidance on best practices to connect with supporters and inspire giving.

Why? Because each and every one of us are philanthropists at heart. Throughout the year, TLC’s bicoastal teams take time out of their days to volunteer to support everything from local fundraising walks to national donation drives. We also plan a company-wide volunteer day every year to give back to organizations that are near and dear to our team members.

Still, there is more we all can do.

Today, on National Philanthropy Day, join us in celebrating all those who create meaningful change through philanthropic work and the incredible impact they have on our world, near and far. 

Need some inspiration for how to express your gratitude and celebrate the holiday? Here are five ideas:

1. Thank those who work at nonprofits. Whether you send a thank you note or tweet, reach out to your favorite nonprofit to the fundraisers, bookkeepers, volunteer coordinators, and everyone in between to express your appreciation for all that they do.
2. Plan a volunteer day. While these are still unusual times, there are still ample ways to donate your time. Use resources like VolunteerMatch to identify volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and recruit your friends, family, and coworkers to join.
3. Spread the joy of giving. Find a nonprofit that you’re passionate about and tell your less community-minded friends that for every donation they make, you’ll donate an additional $10 (or whatever amount you feel comfortable with). Have kids? Grab a shoebox and three small jars to make a save, spend, and share bank to show them how to unleash generosity.
4. Pay it forward. Help someone with their groceries, give a barista an extra $20 to buy a few people’s coffee after you leave, or compliment someone on their work.
5. Look up old coaches, teachers, or mentors. Reach out to those who made an impact in your life to let them know how they influenced you.

The bottom line: there are countless ways to show your appreciation for philanthropic work that individuals and organizations do to make the world a better place.

What tips do you have?

How are you supporting nonprofits? What tips would you add to this list? Let us know at info@thelukenscompany.com.