Show them you care by creating a heritage society with special events, communications.

By Alison O'carroll

Send an “Insider’s Report” once or twice a year that gives your members the “inside scoop” or perhaps a personal perspective on something happening at the organization. These should be from someone high in the organization and could be sent on society letterhead to reinforce the feeling of belonging to a community of special donors.

And, of course, don’t forget that the very best recognition often is regular personal contact — to the extent time permits and donors allow — with your society members through letters, visits and phone calls.

When a donor makes a deferred gift to your organization, it often is the single largest, most thoughtful charitable gift in his or her lifetime. When you are remembered in his or her will, a donor has, in some respects, elevated your cause to the status of family. A fitting response by your organization is to honor the donor and express continued appreciation for his or her support. A heritage society is a great way to accomplish this. FS

Alison O’Carroll is an associate at Planned Giving Services, a
division of PG Calc, a gifts-administration consultancy based in Cambridge, Mass.