Seven Simple Steps for Nonprofits in December
- Ron Krit
- 6 minutes ago
- 3 min read
When I worked for a nonprofit, one thing was always clear: you don’t take time off in December.
December 29, 30, and 31 mattered. A lot.
It’s estimated that around 10% of most nonprofit annual campaigns come in during the final three days of the year, sometimes more. Those gifts don’t just show up. They come from preparation, relationships, and clear asks.
Below are seven simple suggestions to help you raise more money in December.
1. Understand how donors give at year-end (and plan accordingly)
Year-end giving isn’t what it used to be—and that’s not a bad thing. Donors give through different tools, including Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). The money is already set aside. Recent data indicates there is more than $300 billion in DAF assets.
Donors just need:
A reminder
A reason
A clear path to give
If you’re not explicitly mentioning DAFs in emails, board outreach, and donor conversations, you’re leaving money on the table. And if you’re not checking who gave last year from a DAF but hasn’t given yet this year, that’s an ASAP to-do.
2. Ask for IRA Charitable Rollover gifts — now and before Tax Day
Although millions of donors are eligible to give from their IRAs, most nonprofits receive only a fraction of their annual revenue through IRA charitable rollover gifts, making this one of the most underused fundraising tools today.
Donors age 70½ and older can give directly from their IRA to a 501(c)(3). The benefits are real:
Tax-efficient
Simple
At age 73, counts toward their Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)
Ask for IRA gifts now. Then ask again before April 15, 2026, because donors can still make a 2025 IRA charitable gift in early 2026. Most nonprofits forget this second window.
3. Despite the market rollercoaster, ask for stock gifts
Yes, there’s economic uncertainty. And many donors are still sitting on appreciated stock.
These gifts can have an outsized impact, and savvy donors love giving this way.
Stock gifts:
Reduce capital gains
Provide a charitable deduction
Often lead to larger gifts
Are a great alternative to cash
The key is to make it easy. Provide clear instructions, including:
Legal organization name
EIN
Brokerage account information
A real person (with a phone number) to call with questions
If donors have to hunt for this, you’re losing momentum. Remember: stock must be appreciated and held for more than a year to qualify. Also include language encouraging donors to consult their tax professional to determine what’s best for their situation.
4. Steward loudly
Year-end isn’t only about asking.It’s also about:
Thanking
Updating
Reconnecting
Scheduling conversations for January and February
A simple call or note that says,
“I just wanted to thank you for being part of this community this year,”
often leads to,
“I was actually meaning to make a gift…”
Stewardship is fundraising.
5. Now is the time to activate your board
Your board should not be passive in December.
They don’t need to be dialing for dollars, but they do need direction. Set them up for success by:
Providing scripts (email, text, voicemail)
Showing them what a good prospect looks like
Giving them specific names to reach out to
Asking them to make thank-you calls, introductions, and share posts on social media
A quick post or share from a board member can dramatically expand reach in the final days of the year.
6. Use short, human video
Video works. It’s how millions of people consume information. Use a variety of voices: staff, board members, donors, volunteers.
It doesn’t need to be fancy:
30 seconds is enough
Shot on a phone works
Authentic beats polished every time
Connection over perfection. (Feel free to steal that.)
7. Treat the last three days like the Super Bowl
Those final days matter.
Be visible: Communicate across channels—email, direct mail, social media, text.
Be clear: Make it easy to give. Include your EIN, legal name, brokerage info, and a phone number people can call.
Be grateful: Thank donors quickly. When possible, have someone they know sign the thank-you note.
Be urgent: “Please support us by December 31. Your gift helps ensure we can…”
If you want help tightening your year-end messaging, activating your board, or building a smarter DAF and IRA strategy, send me a note!
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I help nonprofits raise more money through education, coaching, and strategic planning. I also lead high-impact professional development, coaching programs, and retreats for companies of all sizes. If you’re ready to strengthen your fundraising strategy, turn board members into advocates, or build a comprehensive legacy giving program, let’s talk.