When we talk about the impacts of giving, we typically focus on two areas: the impact of giving on those we serve and the impact of giving on our enterprise (our mission, our program, our facilities, etc.).
We almost never emphasize the impact of giving on the donor.
Imagine your next annual report highlighting donors with stories like the following:
“My giving changed me. It helped me feel more aligned with values I care about. It offered an opportunity for me to feel better about our world for a change. And, my giving changed how I felt about myself—not because of the gift’s amount, but because of the unmatched high that came from helping others.”
We are inundated with ads, marketing messages, and sales pitches for products, drugs, services, and experiences claiming to make us feel better about ourselves. From Wegovy, to weighted blankets, to aromatherapy, to nutritional supplements, we are told that if we do more for ourselves we will feel better about ourselves.
But, what about sharing how giving in support of people and programs beyond ourselves and our families is the real self-soothing elixir?
We are charged as advancement professionals to raise awareness and resources for people, missions, and organizations that need support.
Perhaps artfully reminding donors and potential donors that being generous will help them feel better about themselves and our world is not a bad place to begin.
