December is the Super Bowl of fundraising—and as someone who works with nonprofits all year long, I can tell you this month has a rhythm and urgency unlike any other. As the year winds down, donor generosity ramps up, and it’s my job (and yours!) to make sure we’re ready to capture every opportunity. Here’s what I believe every nonprofit should be doing in December to finish strong.
1. Lean All the Way Into Year-End Giving
I always remind organizations that nearly one-third of all annual giving happens in December. If there’s ever a moment to be loud, consistent, and clear with your messaging, it’s now.
Send those emails. Post those updates. Make the ask. Don’t be shy—your donors expect it this time of year, and many are actively looking for ways to give.
2. Stay Visible and Human on Social Media
People are scrolling more than usual during the holiday season, and I make sure nonprofits take advantage of that extra attention. Share stories, impact moments, behind-the-scenes content, volunteer highlights—anything that reminds donors why they care about your mission. December isn’t the time for “set and forget.” It’s the time to show up consistently, warmly, and with heart.
3. Get Personal With Your Top Donors
Whether it’s a phone call, a handwritten card, or a short personalized video, I always reach out to my top supporters. Not to ask for money—but to thank them. Authentic gratitude in December often leads to unexpected gifts, deeper loyalty, and bigger commitments down the road.
4. Review Your Data and Make Your Final Push
Around mid-December, I check the numbers. Who gave last year and hasn’t yet this year? Who’s just shy of upgrading their gift? Who’s engaged on email but hasn’t donated?
A targeted final push—backed by real data—is the difference between a good December and a great one.
5. Prep Your Website and Donation Page
Nothing kills a year-end gift faster than a donation form that’s clunky or confusing. I always do a quick audit:
Is the donation page mobile-friendly?
Is the messaging clear and current?
Are the buttons obvious and fast?
Are there too many steps?
Make giving easy. Donors won’t hunt—they’ll abandon.
6. Don’t Neglect Your Auction Planning
If you’re hosting a spring auction or gala, December is the month I start laying groundwork with committees. Procurement, sponsorship outreach, and messaging all benefit from early attention. Everyone’s busy now, sure—but surprisingly, this is also when people are in the giving spirit and more open to saying yes.
7. Celebrate Your Wins
December shouldn’t be all hustle. I make sure every nonprofit I work with takes time to celebrate their team, their volunteers, and the impact they’ve made. This boosts morale, strengthens culture, and reminds everyone why the work matters.
8. Make December 31 CountThis is the biggest giving day of the year. I always schedule:
A morning email
An early evening reminder
A final “last chance” message a few hours before midnight
It works—every time.
December is busy, emotional, and high-stakes, but it’s also one of the most rewarding months in the nonprofit world. When you show up with clarity, gratitude, and energy, donors feel it. And they respond.
If your organization wants help maximizing your year-end strategy—or your upcoming auction—I’m always happy to talk.