On this Fourth of July, as we celebrate our nation’s founding, we’re reminded of our role as stewards of a remarkable experiment in liberty and self-government. Stewardship isn’t just a word—it’s a responsibility, one that extends to how we engage and nurture our relationships with those who support our work.
In fundraising, stewardship means protecting and honoring the gifts entrusted to us. It’s more than managing finances; it’s about building trust through ongoing engagement, transparency, and genuine partnership. As part of the “Eight Steps to Effective Donor Engagement,” stewardship is Step #3, following the initial ask and gratitude. But what does true stewardship look like in action?
Understanding Stewardship: A Partnership Beyond the Gift
At its core, stewardship is the careful management of an asset or gift, but it’s also about something deeper. Stewardship is a two-way relationship that transforms donors from contributors into partners, actively engaged in the impact of their gifts.
Consider these examples:
- Mr. and Mrs. Smith give $250 to support a college scholarship. Were their funds distributed effectively? Did a particular student benefit? Did this support make a meaningful difference in that student’s life?
- Alex, a first-time donor, contributes $50 to a local campaign. How was that money used? Did it help the candidate reach more voters? Did it lead to success, and if so, what policies are now being championed?
- Joe and Sue make a substantial $100,000 donation to a national healthcare initiative. What’s happening with the campaign? Are there measurable advancements? Is the impact visible?
- Evelyn donates $1 million toward the construction of a new church sanctuary. How is the project progressing? Has the required funding been secured? When will the sanctuary be complete, and how many families will benefit?
These examples highlight a key point: stewardship goes beyond just a thank-you. It’s about following up, providing updates, and showing donors the tangible impact of their support. Many donors lament that after making a gift, they never hear back about the outcomes. As stewards, our role is to ensure they do.
How to Bring Engagement into Stewardship
- Communicate Progress Consistently: Begin with a heartfelt thank-you, and then continue to communicate progress. Regular updates allow donors to see how their contributions are making a difference. This transparency builds trust and helps supporters feel they are an essential part of the mission.
- Create Opportunities for Dialogue: Beyond written updates, consider using the phone as a tool for deeper engagement. A phone call allows for a two-way conversation where donors can ask questions, offer feedback, and share insights from their experiences. This interaction goes a long way in strengthening their connection to the cause.
- Invite Supporters to Get Involved: True stewardship invites donors to experience the mission firsthand. Invite them to events, show them the work in action, or even offer roles as volunteer leaders. Giving them a chance to actively engage not only deepens their commitment but often leads to increased generosity over time.
The result? The more involved supporters are, the more likely they are to become dedicated champions for the cause. Engaged donors not only give more generously but also become ambassadors, helping spread the mission to new audiences.
Stewardship as an Ongoing Commitment
Stewardship is about honoring the responsibility that comes with each gift, big or small. When we demonstrate to donors that their contributions are valued and impactful, we’re not only upholding our duty as stewards; we’re also cultivating a lasting partnership. Effective stewardship doesn’t just increase donor retention—it transforms relationships, builds loyalty, and inspires lifelong commitment.
As we reflect on this Independence Day, we’re reminded of the ideals set forth in 1776: liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. Stewardship in fundraising echoes these principles. It’s about protecting and nurturing something meaningful, ensuring that it’s passed on with integrity and purpose.
So, in this celebration of freedom, let’s also embrace our role as stewards of our donors’ trust and generosity. Through intentional engagement and transparent stewardship, we not only honor their support but also empower them to be active participants in the impact we create together.
Happy Independence Day!
Embrace stewardship as more than just a task. By making engagement a strategic priority, we can transform our relationships with donors and build a stronger, more enduring future for the causes we champion.
