The Power of a Simple Thank You: Why This Week Is the Perfect Time to Leave Gratitude Voicemails for Donors
November 24, 2025
As the holiday season approaches, nonprofit teams across the country are preparing for the busiest giving period of the year. There are campaigns to finalize, year-end appeals to coordinate, meetings to schedule, and countless details that demand attention.
However, this week in particular – the week of Thanksgiving – offers a powerful opportunity to reconnect with donors in a way that is entirely free of asks, campaigns, or expectations. It is a moment set aside culturally for gratitude, reflection, and kindness. And in the midst of the rush, many donors are longing for exactly that.
A Thank You Call With No Strings Attached
Many donors say they only ever hear from nonprofits when money is needed. That isn’t always true, of course – but it can feel true to them. In contrast, a voicemail that exists purely to express appreciation stands out in a way that is both rare and deeply meaningful. I’ve made these calls for years, and every time I’m reminded why they matter. Some donors pause, almost surprised, and you can hear the warmth in their voice when they realize someone is reaching out simply to appreciate them. Often they have family with them who are impressed an organization simply called to thank their loved one.
Others barely let me finish the words, “I’m just calling to say thank you and wish you a happy Thanksgiving,” before assuming I’m about to make an ask — but that’s okay. Their reaction doesn’t change the purpose of the call.
You aren’t calling to request a meeting. You aren’t calling to remind them of the annual appeal. You aren’t calling to ask for their time. Even if the 'thank you' call goes to voicemail, the warmth and sincerity of your message can encourage, uplift, and reconnect someone with the mission they care about.
The Emotional Landscape of the Holidays
While the holiday season is joyful for many, it can also be one of the hardest times of the year for others. Donors – just like anyone else – may be:
grieving a recent loss
experiencing financial stress
feeling disconnected or alone
navigating family challenges
overwhelmed by seasonal expectations
Your donors aren’t just check-writers or names in a database. They are human beings with complex lives, and many of them may be carrying burdens you cannot see. A small act of kindness may mean far more to them than you realize.
When you call and say something as simple as, “I hope you have a happy and meaningful Thanksgiving,” you create a moment of human connection. You might be the only person who reaches out to them this week with no agenda other than kindness.
Strengthening Relationships Through Authentic Gratitude
In philanthropy, we talk often about stewardship. But stewardship is not just a technical task or a donor‑relations requirement – it’s an opportunity to build real, lasting relationships.
A thank you call:
affirms that their generosity made a difference
reminds them that they are valued as people
humanizes your organization
strengthens trust
improves retention and long‑term loyalty
sets the tone for the holiday season and the year ahead
Even donors who have not given recently, or donors who give small amounts, can be moved by this gesture. Gratitude grows relationships, and strong relationships grow missions.
Reaching Out to Donors Who Might Be Alone
This week can be particularly lonely for people who don’t have family nearby, who have recently lost someone, or who are struggling quietly behind the scenes. There have been moments in these calls when a donor opens up about something they’re going through, and in those rare, tender spaces, I’ve gently asked, “Would you like me to pray with you?” More often than not, they say yes — sometimes with a quiet sigh of relief, sometimes with a tremble in their voice. I always keep those prayers brief and simple, trusting that God already knows their needs far better than I ever could. It’s just a moment of shared hope, a small act of care in a season when many people need it most.
Why This Matters for Your Team
Taking even an hour to make these calls can be restorative for staff as well. Gratitude isn’t just a message we deliver — it’s a feeling that shapes our own sense of meaning and purpose.
Calling donors to thank them often reminds staff of:
the impact their organization has made
the people who believe in the mission
the shared hope that philanthropy represents
the emotional heart of nonprofit work
In a season that demands so much, this can be grounding.
Doing Good Without Asking for Anything
Philanthropy is built on generosity, connection, and trust. And while fundraising is essential, it is not the whole story. Sometimes the most powerful action is one that asks for nothing in return. A thank you voicemail is not a fundraising tactic. It’s an act of human kindness.
It is a reminder that your organization sees donors as partners, friends, and fellow travelers — not just as contributors to a budget. And in doing so, you plant the seeds for deeper engagement, stronger relationships, and a more compassionate community.
A Gentle Challenge for This Week
Set aside 20 minutes today. Make five calls. Leave five voicemails if no one answers. Say thank you. Wish them a warm Thanksgiving. Expect nothing. And trust that your kindness will carry farther than you know.
This week, let your appreciation be the message. Let your voice be a moment of comfort. And let your donors — especially those who may be navigating this season alone — feel truly, genuinely valued.
Because they are. And telling them so is one of the simplest, most meaningful things you can do.
