How Do You Thank a Major Donor?
Why Donor Appreciation Matters
Donors can make or break a campaign. They help fund the project and provide the financial support needed to get things going—and to see it through from start to finish. Because of this, organizations highly value their donors and are always looking for ways to show their gratitude.
While a simple “thank you” is often enough, taking it a step further can make a significant impact. How you say thank you can encourage major donors to give again in the future and continue supporting your cause.
In this article, we’ve compiled eight impactful ways to say “thank you” that can strengthen donor relationships and motivate continued support.
8 Ways to Say “Thank You” to a Major Donor
1. Phone Call
If you can’t personally thank your donors in person, the next best thing is a phone call. Within 24 hours of receiving the donation, call your donor to express your appreciation.
Ideally, this call should come from a high-ranking leader in your organization, such as the CEO or COO. Even five minutes of their time can leave a lasting impression on a major donor.
Also, remember this rule of thumb: Thank major donors at least five times, across different occasions. Multiple touchpoints help ensure your gratitude is not only heard—but felt.
2. Thank You Note
As an alternative or complement to a phone call, send a handwritten thank you note. Use a quality or custom-branded card to make it feel special.
Even better, have the note written by:
A member of your organization, or
A beneficiary who can personally share how the donation made a difference
Be sure to include these two key messages:
Their donation was needed
Be honest and vulnerable. Let donors know their support was essential to your mission.Their donation will make a difference
Reinforce the impact their gift will have on the people or cause they care about.
Need help getting started? Check out these
Donation thank you letter templates
3. Hand-Made Gift
A small token of appreciation can go a long way. Some organizations create hand-made gifts for their major donors, such as:
Pies or cookies
Branded merchandise like pens or notebooks
While purchased gifts are fine, hand-made items feel more personal and thoughtful. Taking the time to create something unique—and packaging it nicely—can make donors feel truly valued.
4. Personal Value-Add
If you know your donor’s interests, tailor your thank-you accordingly. A personalized value-add shows extra care and attention.
For example:
Sports fans might appreciate a signed photograph or a collectible figurine
Art lovers may enjoy a small, meaningful piece connected to your mission
Include a note with the gift to once again express your gratitude for their contribution.
5. Receipt
For formal purposes, every donation should be acknowledged with a receipt within 24–48 hours.
To elevate this touchpoint, attach a personal thank-you note written by your executive director or another senior leader in your organization.
6. Listen
Some major donors prefer a more reserved approach. They may:
Request anonymity
Ask not to be contacted
The most important thing you can do is listen and respect their wishes.
That said, don’t assume donors don’t want to be thanked. Everyone appreciates acknowledgment. If no specific instructions are given, take the initiative to express your gratitude thoughtfully.
7. Form a Relationship
There’s a big difference between a transactional thank you and a relational thank you.
Transactional: receipts, annual reports, and future donation requests
Relational: genuine connection, personalization, and ongoing appreciation
Relational thank-yous help donors feel emotionally connected to your mission and make your donors feel special, increasing long-term engagement and loyalty.
8. Donor Recognition Walls
Your most valuable donors deserve visible recognition. One of the best ways to do this is with a donor recognition wall.
A donor wall:
Publicly honors major contributors
Often lists donor names and contribution levels
Creates a lasting, meaningful tribute visitors can see
Learn more about how to list names on a donor wall.
Thank Your Donors With DonorSigns
DonorSigns helps organizations honor donors in meaningful and visually stunning ways through custom donor recognition walls.
We offer:
Solutions ranging from budget-friendly plaques to modern, interactive donor walls
Custom designs for organizations of any size, location, or budget
Reach out today to schedule a consultation and explore how we can help you recognize your donors in a way that aligns with your vision, budget, and space.