Stay Visible, Stand Out: Making Your Mark on GivingTuesday

With GivingTuesday quickly approaching, it’s more important than ever for organizations to thoughtfully consider their participation in this global day of generosity. The day has become increasingly crowded, with more nonprofits vying for attention and for-profit companies running extended sales that compete for supporters’ dollars and focus. While some organizations may find they’re not generating the same level of response or revenue from GivingTuesday as they once did, it remains a vital part of a successful year-end strategy.

Here’s why it still matters—and how you can maximize your impact on GivingTuesday:

  1. Show Up and Stay Visible: Even if GivingTuesday is busier than ever, donors still expect to see their favorite causes show up. Being present on this day signals to supporters that your organization is active, relevant, and engaged with the broader philanthropic movement. The visibility keeps you top of mind as supporters consider their year-end giving plans, helping pave the way for ongoing engagement.
  2. Use the Crowded Landscape to Differentiate: While it’s true there’s more competition, this is also a prime opportunity to stand out. Tell a specific, compelling story about your impact that emphasizes what sets your organization apart. Let donors see the real difference their support makes through examples that resonate on a personal level.
  3. Double the Impact with Matching Gifts: Matching gift challenges remain one of the most effective ways to amplify donations. Promote your matching opportunities well in advance and throughout the day to remind donors that their gift will go even further. This helps cut through the noise, giving your campaign extra appeal amid the crowded landscape.
  4. Engage Across Multiple Platforms: Connect with your audience on various platforms—whether through social media, email, or your website—to drive greater awareness and participation. Give your website a GivingTuesday refresh and post real-time updates throughout the day to keep supporters engaged and excited about your progress.
  5. Springboard into Year-End Giving: GivingTuesday can be an essential catalyst to launch or re-energize your year-end giving campaign. Share a vision for the lasting impact donors can make by continuing their support beyond one day. Emphasize that GivingTuesday is just the start of a season of generosity that fuels your mission well into the new year.
  6. Follow Up with Gratitude and Updates: Prompt follow-ups with personalized thank-yous and impact updates can deepen donor relationships and prime supporters for additional engagement in December. By showing appreciation and transparency, you foster a sense of partnership that encourages year-end giving.

Even as GivingTuesday evolves in a crowded and competitive space, it remains a powerful day to connect with new donors, strengthen ties with existing supporters, and build the momentum that will fuel your work through the holiday season and beyond. By showing up strategically, your organization can make the most of GivingTuesday and set the stage for meaningful impact into the new year.

Ready to take the next step? Dunham+Company is here to help your organization have more impact and establish deeper relationships with your donors and supporters.