The "Up and Out" Fallacy

If you effectively can communicate your message four or five times a year, then mail four or five times a year. More likely, your financial needs and your mission will require much more frequent communication with donors.

Those donors who’ve moved above your demarcation line need as much communication and as frequent contact as everyone else. Just because a donor now is giving more doesn’t mean he or she wants less contact with you. On the contrary, an increased level of giving often signals a desire for more dialogue and more participation.Rather than decreasing the number of communication efforts, consider substituting or even adding a special report or donor-affirmation mailing. A progress report or a special thank-you letter unrelated to a specific gift will build your donor’s loyalty without harming your revenue stream.