Seven Essentials to Starting a Monthly Giving Program, and More

McKinnon said a key to maintaining and growing your relationship with monthly donors is thanking them, but not too often. He advised thanking donors when they join the monthly program and then once a year thereafter. Sending a "thank you" every month might only irritate donors, he said.

Once your monthly donor program is in place, McKinnon suggested trying to raise even more money from these donors through upgrading, high-dollar clubs, tribute and memorial giving, planned gifts, selling products, and special events.