Written by Jessica Nieves, Growth Partner, BetterWorld, [email protected]
As the year draws to a close, Catholic schools find themselves at a powerful moment—a time of reflection, celebration and the opportunity to give back through year-end giving. This cherished tradition is not just about donations; it’s a time for families, alumni and supporters to reconnect with the values, mission and community that make Catholic education special.
The end of the year is a season of generosity and hope, a time when we come together to support the institutions that have shaped us, our children and future generations. For Catholic schools, year-end giving is vital in continuing to impact students’ lives in profound and lasting ways.
Why Year-End Giving Matters
Did you know that 30% of all charitable donations are made in December, with 12% of donations occurring in just the final three days of the year? These aren’t just statistics—they’re a testament to the spirit of giving that moves people during this special time.
This represents a chance to fund essential programs, offer scholarships and create opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach in Catholic schools. It’s a time to invite supporters to reflect on their blessings and give back to a community rooted in faith and education.
The Power Behind December Giving
What makes December such a powerful time for giving? It’s the culmination of a season where people feel inspired by the holiday spirit, driven by faith and reminded of the importance of supporting causes close to their hearts. Many are also motivated by the approaching tax deadlines, finding joy in making a contribution that can offer financial benefits while supporting the mission of Catholic education that transforms students’ lives and strengthens communities.
How to Create a Meaningful Year-End Giving Campaign
- Start Early, Plan With Purpose: Begin your campaign with intention. Define your goals and think about who you want to reach within your school community. What impact do you want your campaign to have? Planning ahead ensures that your message resonates deeply with donors.
- Share Stories That Inspire: The heart of any successful campaign is connection. Share personal stories of students whose lives have been changed by the school, alumni who’ve gone on to make a difference in the world and the everyday miracles that happen within your school walls. These stories are your greatest tools to remind donors of the life-changing power of their generosity.
- Engage Through Social Media: Social media can be a bridge to your community. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to bring your school’s stories to life. Post updates, videos and heartfelt messages from students and staff to create excitement and a sense of involvement.
- Create Incentives, Offer Gratitude: People love to feel appreciated. Offer simple, thoughtful gifts—a handwritten note, special school merchandise or public acknowledgments online. These gestures of thanks can create lasting connections and turn one-time donors into lifelong supporters.
- Simplify the Giving Process : Make it as easy as possible for donors to contribute. Provide multiple payment options and ensure that your donation platform is user-friendly. People are more likely to give when the process is simple and accessible.
Your Checklist for Success
- Set Clear Goals: Identify specific projects—scholarships, facility improvements or academic programs—that inspire donors to contribute.
- Segment Your Audience: Tailor your messages to different groups—parents, alumni and friends of the school—ensuring a personal touch that resonates.
- Create Engaging Content: Share videos and articles that highlight the tangible impact donations have on the lives of students.
- Host Virtual Events: Use technology to bring people together. A virtual event or livestream can engage your community and make them feel a part of something larger.
- Incorporate Prayer and Reflection: Faith is central to the mission of Catholic schools. Invite your community to join in prayer and reflection as part of your campaign, uniting everyone in a shared purpose.
- Optimize for Mobile: Make sure your campaign is mobile-friendly so supporters can give quickly and easily from any device.
- Create Urgency: Set deadlines, use countdowns and celebrate milestones to inspire action.
- Express Gratitude: Send heartfelt thank-yous and share stories of the difference each donation is making in the lives of your students.
A Partner in Your Mission: BetterWorld
BetterWorld’s Free Online Fundraising Platform revolutionizes how organizations manage donations and fundraising initiatives by offering an all-in-one solution for various fundraising needs, including peer-to-peer fundraising, donation management, events, auctions, crowdfunding, raffles and more.
This comprehensive platform simplifies the entire process, allowing schools to streamline their efforts and focus on their mission.
With no platform fees, schools can save both time and money, enabling them to allocate more resources directly to their mission. The intuitive, single-view dashboard provides a complete overview of all donor campaigns, making it easier than ever to track success and manage contributions in real time.
BetterWorld is proud to partner with NCEA. Learn more today. Schedule a demo now.
