Below is the default thank you letter we send to our animal shelter donors. Thanking supporters shows that you don’t take them or their generosity for granted.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Personalize your message. Thank-you letters should always include the recipient’s name. No generic form letters.
• Keep the message brief and let them know they made a difference.
• The sign-off should be from someone within the organization. This could be the treasurer, the organization president, or the shelter manager.
• Consider adding a P.S. Postscripts get read, sometimes more so than the body of the letter. They can be invitations to visit the website or add a specific reminder.

 

SAMPLE LETTER

Dear [Recipient],

Your gift makes an impact…

Thank you for your generous gift of [Amount] on [Date].

As a member of the Humane Society of Walden Board of Directors, I would like to personally thank you for making our work possible.

Since [Year], the [Organization] has acted as a bridge between homelessness and forever homes for the thousands of animals who walk through our doors every year. We provide food, shelter, medical care, and compassion for the animals in our care while we seek permanent placement for them with loving adopters.

Your generosity and commitment to helping cats and dogs is what enables us to continue this vital work. Thank you so much – on behalf the animals we serve – for believing in second chances. We couldn’t do this without you.

With deep gratitude,
Sincerely,
[Sender]
[Position], [Organization Name]
[email address]​

Use this animal shelter donation thank you letter template and tailor it to your shelter’s unique voice, mission, and specific needs. Your passion and expertise are what make your shelter stand out. By customizing this letter, you can ensure that your message resonates authentically with your donors.

FAQs

How often should we send thank you letters to repeat donors?

For repeat donors, sending thank you letters should be a thoughtful process. Consider varying the message for each donation. This keeps the communication fresh and personal. Plan to send these letters shortly after each donation. This shows ongoing appreciation for their continued support.

Can the impact of these thank you letters on donor retention be measured, and if so, how?

Measuring the impact of thank you letters on donor retention involves tracking donation patterns. Look at the frequency and amounts before and after sending letters. Timely surveys can also measure donor satisfaction and the letters’ effectiveness in encouraging future donations.

Are there any legal considerations or guidelines to follow when sending donation thank you letters?

Legal considerations for donation thank you letters include acknowledging the donation amount and stating no goods or services were provided in exchange, if applicable. This is important for the donors’ tax purposes. Always respect privacy. Don’t share donor information without consent. Following these guidelines ensures both gratitude and compliance are addressed.

How can you effectively segment a donor list to tailor thank you letters?

Segmenting your donor list for tailored thank you letters starts with data analysis. Look at donation amounts, frequency, and specific campaigns donors have contributed to. This approach allows for personalized messages that acknowledge each donor’s unique contribution. For example, first-time donors might receive a welcome message. Repeat donors could get updates on how their continued support helps.

What role does digital communication play in complementing traditional thank you letters?

Digital communication can play an enhancing role alongside traditional letters. Emails can quickly acknowledge a donation. Social media can publicly thank donors, creating community engagement. Video messages from shelter staff offer a personal touch. Digital methods can complement physical letters This mullti-channeled approach keeps donors engaged and informed across various platforms.