As we make our way through the season of giving

Let's all take a moment and pause

'Tis the season to appreciate the many who served

And gave so much to your cause

This year mightn't have been what you hoped it would be

I remember those days very well

Don't let disappointment make you forget

Your loyal and committed personnel

Saying "thank you" is certainly appropriate here

It's the most often repeated phrase

If you want staff to stay and grow with you

Consider giving them a raise

Humans in nonprofits are considered an “expense”

To budget more seems like a lot

But the time, attention, and commitment they bring?

They're the most valuable thing that you've got

Now let's give a nod to the Boardroom of folks

Who pledged their time this last year

Who are willing to show up and stand for a cause

Even though it's not their career

You may not have loved everyone in that room

I get it's a double-edged sword

Personalities and egos and conflicts aside

Let's thank those who served on the Board

Speaking of those who pledge energy and time

To a Mission they love very much

Let's spread the love to Volunteers in your org

And everyone whose lives they touch

A few weeks are left before closing the books

Supporters are giving, it's true

If donations are scarce in your neck of the woods

They wanted to hear from you

I don't need to tell you it's been a tough year

Many people are struggling today

So when they give money during challenging times

Your appreciation goes a long way

I know you think an email is fine

An auto reply and it's "solved"

But what if you missed an opportunity, my friend?

The chance to get them involved

Imagine a world where you thank everyone

Acknowledgment is your claim to fame

Your supporters could be known and seen and heard

And you could stop playing the year end game ;)

Perhaps it's a goal for the coming year

And I'll gladly be your cheerleader

My Hilborn articles have an edge, for sure

I hope you'll stay with me, dear reader

2023 is almost here

And soon it'll be time to rest

What I want to leave with you…

Thank you for doing your best!

Wishing you, your Staff, your Board, and your Volunteers the most wonderful holiday and a wildly prosperous New Year! ~ Sheree Allison

Sheree Allison merges the worlds of fundraising, marketing, and leadership combined with an entrepreneurial spirit to train and develop nonprofit leaders who are committed to building a world class organization.  Check out her book “The Non Profit Book of Wisdom - One Executive Director Who Couldn’t Be Swayed” and her weekly column at www.shereeallison.com.

Home page photo by Jodie Walton on Unsplash.