This is the time of the year when people seem to act as if it is a competition for who is the most busy. And it is true that this is a jam-packed time of year, particularly for those of us who work in the charity sector. With some charities receiving as much as 50% of their revenue in the last six weeks of the year, work can feel overwhelming.
Just don't write off contacting donors this month because you think they are too busy to talk. For some, the opposite is true. So who may have extra time for you this holiday season?
Single people
Almost a third of Canadians live alone according to Statistics Canada. While living alone doesn't mean someone is lonely, it does suggest they may have more time to talk to you. While many families are busy, single people may not have families nearby so may actually be more free this time of year, particularly if their friends are tied up with family activities.
This is your perfect chance to call them and catch them up on the impact of their gift. Or, better yet, invite them to coffee and tell them how their gift makes a difference. This investment now, will connect them more closely to your cause.
People who are not Christian
Only 67% of Canadians identify as Christian. While many identify as non-religious, that still leaves a lot of people who are not attending a zillion Christmas parties this time of year. Here's your chance to book a coffee with your Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jewish, or donors from other faith traditions. They are just as interested in the work of your organization and it is unlikely their calendar is bursting with holiday obligations.
Corporate supporters
Corporate offices get very quiet starting from around December 15 through to January 2 or so (depends a bit on the calendar each year and where Christmas and New Year's falls). While many people take time off work, corporate offices are not closed. And very few corporate people take two or three full weeks vacation this time of year.
That means you have a great opportunity to talk to your corporate supporters. Book a coffee and do a stewardship update. Call them and get their advice about your next sponsorship proposal. These are people used to working 14 hour days and the more they can do at year end, the easier their first week in January.
You
Ok, let's say you are done. You are too tired to talk to anyone. This is still a great time to get a jump on 2020.
With planning and some focus, you will be surprised how much you can get done this time of year. And the more you do now, the more you are setting yourself up for success in the calendar new year.
