One way many honor the deceased while doing good for others is by asking others to make a donation in the deceased name. Donations to a charitable organization that the deceased supported in life are often made at the request of friends, family and colleagues of the person who has passed away.

This sample letter template is intended for those who have donated in the name of someone else.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Personalize your message. In memorium thank-you letters should always include the recipient’s name. No generic form letters.
• Keep the message brief. If you personally know the recipient or knew the deceased, you could mention what they meant to the organization.
• What specific outcomes can be tied to the memorial gifts? If possible, mention a project or purchase that the donation helped make possible. This helps inform the donor that the loved one remains honored in a tangible way.
• The sign-off should be from someone within the organization. This could be the treasurer, the organization president, or the shelter manager.
• Maybe add a P.S. Postscripts get read, sometimes more so than the body of the letter. They are often invitations to visit the website or add a specific reminder. For ‘In Memory’ letters, you may want to skip a postscript if it seems awkward. It’s up to you.

SAMPLE IN MEMORY OF LETTER

Dear [Recipient],

On behalf of [Organization Name], I would like to thank you for your gift of [Amount] on [Date]. Thank you for your kindness and thoughtfulness. It is much appreciated and valued.

In honoring [name/him/her], you have made a lasting investment in the lives of the hundreds of homeless cats and dogs that enter our care each year. Your gift allows us to continue to provide food, shelter, medical care and love for the animals in our charge while we seek permanent placement for them with loving adopters.

Once again, on behalf of [Organization Name], thank you for your generous and thoughtful gift.

Sincerely,
[Sender]
[Position], [Organization Name]
[email address]​

[Organization Name] is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; Tax Identification [Number XX-XXXXXXX]. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this contribution.

Related:  Letter: In Memory of Individual Organizer Thank You
For someone who organized a donation in the name or in the memory of someone.

Use this animal shelter in memory of donation letter template and tailor it to your shelter or rescue’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 the donor.