A committed individual major donor can work miracles for smaller non-profits. Not only do they have the funds to support your cause, but they often bring invaluable experience and insight.
I’ll never forget one such donor, an older woman I’ll call Stella (name changed). For years before I joined the organization, Stella had been a pillar of support. But then, abruptly, her giving ceased. My goal was to meet with Stella, understand her past commitment, learn what stirred her passion now, and hopefully reconnect with her.
Through a board member, we had lunch together. Stylish and witty in her 80s, Stella chose a spot known for cocktails and seafood. She was smart and full of life. We discussed her history of funding youth scholarships, her business and media career, and our shared love of reading. Due to declining health, Stella had missed our recent events, her main avenue for giving. I described current youth programs and new initiatives but didn’t directly ask for money. Afterward, I sent a thank-you and followed up with a book I thought she might enjoy.
Gradually, Stella resumed her vital support as a major donor, with yearly gifts. It was gratifying to regain her partnership. But then the pandemic struck.
Our situation grew dire. We furloughed people, closed programs, and operated on a skeleton crew, desperately trying to keep our organization afloat amidst complex compliance requirements and health rules.
It was in those bleak pandemic times, perhaps in May 2020, that I received an envelope from Stella. Inside, a shaky note in pale blue ink: “I thought you might need this, Best, Stella.” Folded inside was a check for $100,000, drawn from her personal account.
I cried, holding that check. This timely, unsolicited gift would help us pay bills and maintain health insurance for furloughed staff. Stella’s generosity deeply moved me and made a critical difference as we struggled to survive.
I’ve always remembered what it felt like to open that envelope and find her note, and that check.
It really shows me how, for smaller non-profits, a few dedicated supporters can provide invaluable lifelines, especially in challenging times. Stella’s miraculous pandemic gift reminds me of the immense power one committed major donor can wield and makes me wish we all could have donors with the kindness and resources of Stella.
A committed individual major donor can work miracles for smaller non-profits. Not only do they have the funds to support your cause, but they often bring invaluable experience and insight.
I’ll never forget one such donor, an older woman I’ll call Stella (name changed). For years before I joined the organization, Stella had been a pillar of support. But then, abruptly, her giving ceased. My goal was to meet with Stella, understand her past commitment, learn what stirred her passion now, and hopefully reconnect with her.
Through a board member, we had lunch together. Stylish and witty in her 80s, Stella chose a spot known for cocktails and seafood. She was smart and full of life. We discussed her history of funding youth scholarships, her business and media career, and our shared love of reading. Due to declining health, Stella had missed our recent events, her main avenue for giving. I described current youth programs and new initiatives but didn’t directly ask for money. Afterward, I sent a thank-you and followed up with a book I thought she might enjoy.
Gradually, Stella resumed her vital support as a major donor, with yearly gifts. It was gratifying to regain her partnership. But then the pandemic struck.
Our situation grew dire. We furloughed people, closed programs, and operated on a skeleton crew, desperately trying to keep our organization afloat amidst complex compliance requirements and health rules.
It was in those bleak pandemic times, perhaps in May 2020, that I received an envelope from Stella. Inside, a shaky note in pale blue ink: “I thought you might need this, Best, Stella.” Folded inside was a check for $100,000, drawn from her personal account.
I cried, holding that check. This timely, unsolicited gift would help us pay bills and maintain health insurance for furloughed staff. Stella’s generosity deeply moved me and made a critical difference as we struggled to survive.
I’ve always remembered what it felt like to open that envelope and find her note, and that check.
It really shows me how, for smaller non-profits, a few dedicated supporters can provide invaluable lifelines, especially in challenging times. Stella’s miraculous pandemic gift reminds me of the immense power one committed major donor can wield and makes me wish we all could have donors with the kindness and resources of Stella.