Mike’s Monday Message: The Power of Gratitude in Fundraising

As the season of Thanksgiving here in the U.S. approaches, it’s a natural time to reflect on the many reasons we have to be grateful. At AFP, we see gratitude as more than a momentary expression; it’s a cornerstone of our profession and a powerful force in our personal and professional lives.

Fundraising is built on the foundation of relationships, and at the heart of those relationships is gratitude. Every time we thank a donor, every time we acknowledge the generosity of volunteers, staff, and partners, we reinforce a culture of appreciation that fuels the incredible work being done in communities around the world.

Here are some resources you can use to effectively thank your supporters during the all-important year-end giving season:

• Advancing Philanthropy Article: Gratitude and AI— A Perilous Journey (Available Exclusively to AFP Members) 
• AFP Webinar Recording: Donor Stewardship: The Secret to Raising Lots of Funds
• Article: Gratitude With Impact: 5 Ideas for Thanking Donors
• Article: Why We Say “Thank You”
• AFP Webinar Recording (Complimentary): Supercharge Individual Donor Cultivation, Solicitation + Stewardship with Video Outreach

This month especially, I want to thank you—our AFP community. Your dedication to advancing philanthropy and strengthening the fundraising profession is inspiring. Whether you’re helping your organization reach ambitious goals, mentoring the next generation of fundraisers, or advocating for ethical practices, your efforts are creating lasting impact.

Gratitude also goes beyond acknowledging others; it sustains us as individuals. In a profession that often comes with challenges, maintaining a spirit of thankfulness can be a source of resilience and joy. When we pause to recognize even the smallest wins or appreciate the opportunity to make a difference, we find renewed energy for the road ahead.

As you gather with family, friends, and colleagues this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to embrace gratitude fully. Take a moment to reflect on the lives you’ve touched and the communities you’ve strengthened. Share your thanks with those around you, and don’t forget to express gratitude to yourself for your hard work and dedication, particularly as we enter our busiest time of year. 

On behalf of everyone at AFP, thank you for all that you do to lift up others and champion the causes that matter most. 

As always, please feel free to email me at mike.geiger@afpglobal.org or connect with me directly on X at @AFPMikeGeiger. I’d love to hear from you.