Cover Story: Faith-based Fundraising

7. Be inclusive: Thank donors in a way that celebrates generosity over affluence. Fifty dollars from a struggling single mother deserves every bit the recognition as half a million from a business magnate.

8. Ensure that donor thanks and recognition serve to strengthen all donors in their common resolve and sense of ownership of a project, no matter what each donor gave. (Not only must communities outlive their donor programs; it is important to inculcate a widespread sense of commitment to any project that will have ongoing needs.)