The final weeks of the year can feel like a fundraising sprint. Opportunities are everywhere, deadlines are real, and donors are thinking about impact and year-end tax benefits. In the rush to finish strong, it’s important to remember the tried-and-true wisdom: “Be quick, but don’t hurry.”

Here are strategies for instituting timely action executed with calm and clarity:

Prioritize Personal Outreach to Your Top Donors

If you only have time for one extra thing, make it this: Select your top 15 to 25 donors and make genuine connections. Call them, thank them and share one timely update about an exciting project currently taking place.

Keep it brief. Then, if it feels appropriate, end the conversation with a soft ask: “If you’re still considering a year-end gift, we would be honored to be part of your philanthropic plans.”

Send a Targeted, High-Quality Year-End Email

Year-end emails still work, especially when they’re simple, specific and authentic. If you can, segment your donor emails and tailor your message to past donors, first-time donor, lapsed donors, etc.

Use a compelling headline highlighting the organization’s great work, share a short, recent success story, offer a bold call to action and make it easy for donors to give via a QR code or link to your donation page.

Give a Nudge about Year-end Opportunities and Options

Like nonprofit fundraisers, donors are extremely busy this time of year. Include a reminder that December 31^stis fast approaching, but “It’s not too late to make gifts of stock or IRA distributions.” If possible, provide a matching opportunity that doubles your donors’ generosity.

Above all, stay focused, lead with gratitude and act with intentionality. Here’s to finishing the year with clarity, confidence and meaningful generosity!