Ask most boards what their job is when it comes to fundraising, and you'll hear some version of "the ask," (if you're lucky!). What often doesn't makes the list is stewardship: thanking donors, keeping them informed, and making them feel like partners rather than a line on a spreadsheet. That usually gets left to the development team, which is a strange division of labor, since board members often bring exactly the credibility and personal relationships that make stewardship land.

Experts generally estimate that 80% of donations come from about 20% of donors. Bloomerang’s research shows an even greater divide, with 88% of donations coming from 12% of donors. 

That’s why cultivating major donor relationships is so important. They can truly make a massive impact on your cause and help you serve more beneficiaries. This guide will walk you through how to follow up with major donors to retain their support and keep them as part of your community.