How Cancer Research Orgs Can Secure In-Kind Donations

How Cancer Research Orgs Can Secure In-Kind Donations

In-kind donations represent a vital resource for cancer research organizations seeking to maximize their impact without solely relying on cash contributions. These donations, which include goods and services rather than money, can significantly reduce operational costs and enhance program delivery. For nonprofits dedicated to advancing cancer research, securing in-kind gifts can mean access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment, specialized software, or essential medical devices that might otherwise be prohibitively expensive.

Understanding how to effectively identify, request, and manage in-kind donations is crucial for development teams and fundraising professionals within cancer research organizations. By leveraging these non-cash contributions, nonprofits can allocate more of their budget directly to research initiatives and patient support services. This strategic approach not only strengthens organizational capacity but also fosters meaningful partnerships with corporations and community stakeholders.

In this article, we will explore the nature of in-kind donations, highlight specific examples relevant to cancer research nonprofits, and provide actionable guidance on where to find these valuable resources. Additionally, we will discuss best practices for making the donation ask and introduce tools designed to streamline the process, empowering your organization to secure the support it needs to advance its mission.

Table of Contents

  • What Are In-Kind Donations for Cancer Research Orgs?
  • Types of In-Kind Donations for Cancer Research Orgs
  • Where Cancer Research Orgs Should Look for In-Kind Support
  • How Cancer Research Orgs Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask
  • Tools and Resources to Help Cancer Research Orgs Get Started

What Are In-Kind Donations for Cancer Research Orgs?

In-kind donations are contributions of goods, services, or time rather than direct financial support. Unlike cash gifts, which provide unrestricted funding, in-kind donations offer tangible resources that nonprofits can use to fulfill their mission. These can range from donated office supplies to professional services such as legal advice or marketing support. The key distinction is that in-kind gifts help organizations reduce expenses or enhance capabilities without requiring monetary transactions.

For cancer research organizations, in-kind donations hold particular significance. The specialized nature of cancer research demands access to sophisticated laboratory equipment, high-quality reagents, and advanced software platforms for data analysis. Receiving these items as donations can dramatically lower operational costs and accelerate research timelines. Moreover, in-kind gifts such as medical devices or lab-grade chemicals directly support experimental work, clinical trials, and patient care initiatives.

Beyond physical goods, in-kind donations can include services like transportation of sensitive materials, IT support, or event management, all of which contribute to the smooth functioning of cancer research programs. By embracing in-kind contributions, cancer research nonprofits can optimize their fundraising strategies, build stronger corporate relationships, and ultimately increase their capacity to make breakthroughs in cancer treatment and prevention.

Why In-Kind Donations Matter for Cancer Research

Cancer research organizations operate in a resource-intensive environment. The cost of acquiring and maintaining laboratory instruments, purchasing reagents, and implementing clinical technologies can be substantial. In-kind donations help bridge funding gaps, enabling researchers to focus on scientific discovery rather than procurement challenges.

Types of In-Kind Donations for Cancer Research Orgs

Cancer research organizations benefit from a diverse array of in-kind donations that support both their scientific and operational needs. Below are some of the most valuable types of in-kind gifts tailored to this vertical, along with explanations of their impact.

Laboratory Equipment

Donations of laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, microscopes, PCR machines, and incubators are invaluable. These tools enable researchers to conduct experiments, analyze samples, and develop new therapies. Receiving such equipment as a gift can save nonprofits tens of thousands of dollars, allowing funds to be redirected toward research personnel and materials.

Specialized Software

Software licenses for data management, statistical analysis, and bioinformatics are critical for modern cancer research. Donated software can enhance data accuracy, streamline workflows, and facilitate collaboration among research teams. Access to cutting-edge software tools empowers nonprofits to stay competitive and innovative.

Medical Devices

Medical devices such as imaging systems, diagnostic tools, and patient monitoring equipment support both research and clinical trials. These donations improve the quality of data collected and can enhance patient care during studies. They also reduce the financial burden associated with acquiring expensive technology.

Office Supplies and Infrastructure

While less glamorous, office supplies and infrastructure donations—like computers, printers, and furniture—are essential for maintaining an efficient work environment. These items support administrative functions, fundraising efforts, and communications, all of which are vital to sustaining cancer research programs.

Professional Services

Services such as legal counsel, marketing support, IT consulting, and logistics can be donated to help cancer research nonprofits operate more effectively. For example, a company might provide discounted or free shipping for sensitive research materials, while a technology platform could offer technical support or software training.

Where Cancer Research Orgs Should Look for In-Kind Support

Identifying potential sources of in-kind donations requires a strategic approach. Cancer research organizations should begin by researching companies with corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that align with their mission. Many corporations prioritize health-related causes and are eager to support nonprofits through product donations, services, or employee volunteerism.

Below are some leading companies known for supporting cancer research nonprofits through in-kind donations, along with insights into their typical contributions and alignment with the mission.

Pfizer

Pfizer frequently donates laboratory equipment, pharmaceuticals, and research materials to cancer research organizations. Their commitment to advancing cancer treatment makes them a natural partner. Pfizer’s in-kind support helps nonprofits access cutting-edge tools and compounds essential for innovative research.

Merck

Merck offers in-kind donations including medical devices, lab reagents, and software solutions. Their focus on oncology research aligns closely with cancer nonprofits’ goals, making their support highly relevant. Merck’s programs often include educational resources and technical assistance as well.

Bristol-Myers Squibb

Bristol-Myers Squibb provides in-kind gifts such as specialized laboratory instruments and clinical trial support services. Their dedication to immuno-oncology research complements the work of many cancer research organizations, fostering impactful collaborations.

FedEx

FedEx supports nonprofits by donating shipping services, which are critical for transporting sensitive biological samples and other research materials. Their logistical expertise ensures timely and secure delivery, reducing operational challenges for research groups.

Microsoft

Microsoft contributes software licenses, cloud computing resources, and IT consulting services. Their technology donations enable cancer research organizations to manage large datasets, collaborate remotely, and enhance cybersecurity, all of which are vital in today’s research environment.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher is a leading provider of laboratory equipment and reagents, often donating these items to cancer research nonprofits. Their products support a wide range of experimental techniques, helping organizations maintain high-quality research standards.

How Cancer Research Orgs Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask

Making a successful in-kind donation request requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Building long-term relationships with corporate partners is essential, as is aligning the nonprofit’s needs with the company’s mission and giving priorities. A well-crafted ask makes it easy for businesses to say yes and fosters ongoing collaboration.

Personalizing Your Outreach

Tailor your communication to reflect the company’s unique interests and previous philanthropic activities. This shows respect for their priorities and increases the likelihood of a positive response.

Clearly Defining Needs and Impact

Be specific about the items or services requested and explain how they will directly support cancer research initiatives. Concrete examples help donors understand the tangible difference their contribution will make.

Communicating Donor Benefits

Emphasize how the company’s involvement will enhance its reputation, engage employees, and contribute to meaningful community impact. This mutual benefit strengthens the case for support.

Offering Flexible Giving Options

Allow donors to choose from various ways to contribute, accommodating their resources and preferences. Flexibility can open doors to unexpected forms of support.

Facilitating the Donation Process

Provide clear instructions and a single point of contact to simplify logistics. A smooth process encourages companies to participate and return in the future.

Tools and Resources to Help Cancer Research Orgs Get Started

Securing in-kind donations can be complex, but dedicated tools and resources can streamline the process for cancer research nonprofits. Many companies offer in-kind donation programs with open applications or predefined request procedures, yet these opportunities are often scattered across multiple platforms and difficult to track manually.

Using specialized tools helps nonprofit professionals uncover corporate giving programs that align with their mission quickly and efficiently. These platforms save time by aggregating application links, eligibility criteria, and contact information in one centralized location. They also assist in tracking outreach efforts and organizing potential donor relationships.

For example, Double the Donation’s corporate giving program database is a top-tier solution designed to support nonprofits in identifying and securing in-kind donations. It includes thousands of verified programs encompassing in-kind gifts, grants, and workplace giving opportunities. By leveraging this resource, cancer research organizations can expand their network of potential partners and enhance their fundraising strategies.


Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Securing in-kind donations is a powerful strategy for cancer research organizations aiming to stretch their budgets and accelerate scientific breakthroughs. By identifying specific needs, researching aligned corporate partners, and making thoughtful, personalized donation requests, nonprofits can unlock valuable resources that directly support their mission.

Utilizing tools like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database further enhances these efforts by simplifying the discovery and management of in-kind donation opportunities. With a strategic approach and the right resources, cancer research nonprofits can build lasting partnerships that fuel innovation and improve patient outcomes.

Empower Your Fundraising with Double the Donation

Corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations are critical to the success of nonprofit events and programs—but sourcing the right partners can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Raise more with corporate grants, in-kind gifts. Double the Donation streamlines the entire process, helping your team find, secure, and manage corporate support with ease. With our industry-leading corporate giving database, you can quickly identify companies that offer financial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and corporate grants—giving you a data-driven edge in building meaningful partnerships. Whether you’re planning a gala, community fundraiser, or research initiative, Double the Donation makes it simple to source high-value in-kind donations so you can focus on what matters most: delivering impact. From auction items and catering to branded merchandise and venue support, we help you connect with companies ready to give. But we don’t stop at donations. Our platform helps you leverage supporter employment data to uncover corporate sponsorship potential and unlock deeper forms of workplace giving like matching gifts and employee volunteer programs—often through the same companies you’re already engaging.

How Homeless Shelters Can Secure In-Kind Donations

How Homeless Shelters Can Secure In-Kind Donations

Homeless shelters play a vital role in providing safety, comfort, and essential services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. To fulfill their missions effectively, these organizations often rely on a combination of financial contributions and in-kind donations. In-kind donations refer to non-cash gifts such as goods, services, or expertise that directly support the shelter’s operations and the well-being of its residents.

Securing in-kind donations can be a game-changer for homeless shelters, as these contributions help reduce operational costs and ensure that residents receive the items they need most. From clothing and toiletries to furniture and cleaning supplies, in-kind gifts can fill critical gaps that monetary donations alone may not cover. Understanding how to identify, request, and manage these donations is essential for nonprofit professionals dedicated to advancing their shelter’s impact.

In this article, we will explore what in-kind donations are, the types most valuable to homeless shelters, where to find potential donors, and best practices for making the ask. We will also introduce tools that can streamline the process, helping your organization build sustainable partnerships and maximize the benefits of in-kind support.

Table of Contents

  • What Are In-Kind Donations for Homeless Shelters?
  • Types of In-Kind Donations for Homeless Shelters
  • Where Homeless Shelters Should Look for In-Kind Support
  • How Homeless Shelters Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask
  • Tools and Resources to Help Homeless Shelters Get Started

What Are In-Kind Donations for Homeless Shelters?

In-kind donations are contributions of goods, services, or expertise rather than cash. Unlike traditional monetary gifts, which provide financial flexibility, in-kind donations offer tangible resources that directly support a nonprofit’s programs or operations. These can range from donated office equipment and supplies to professional services, such as legal advice or transportation assistance.

For homeless shelters, in-kind donations are especially impactful because they address immediate, practical needs. Shelters require a steady supply of essentials such as clothing, food, bedding, and hygiene products to serve their residents effectively. Receiving these items directly from donors enables shelters to allocate their financial resources more effectively toward other critical areas, such as staffing, program development, and facility maintenance.

Moreover, in-kind donations can foster stronger community connections. When local businesses or corporations contribute goods or services, they become active partners in the shelter’s mission, enhancing visibility and community goodwill. This collaborative approach aligns with smarter fundraising strategies that emphasize maximizing impact through diverse revenue streams and resource sharing.

How In-Kind Donations Differ from Cash Gifts

While cash gifts provide flexibility, in-kind donations offer specificity. They ensure that shelters receive exactly what they need, often reducing the time and effort spent on procurement. However, managing in-kind gifts requires clear communication about needs, storage capacity, and distribution plans to avoid surplus or unusable items.

Why In-Kind Donations Matter for Homeless Shelters

Homeless shelters operate with tight budgets and high demand for essential items. In-kind donations help bridge the gap between limited funding and the comprehensive needs of residents. They also enable shelters to respond quickly to emergencies or seasonal demands, such as providing warm clothing in winter or additional bedding during cold snaps.

Aligning In-Kind Donations with Mission Impact

Strategically soliciting in-kind donations ensures that every gift contributes meaningfully to the shelter’s goals. By focusing on items and services that enhance program delivery and resident well-being, shelters can maximize the value of these contributions and build lasting partnerships with donors who share their visions.

Types of In-Kind Donations for Homeless Shelters

Homeless shelters benefit from a wide range of in-kind donations that support both daily operations and ongoing resident care. Below are some of the most valuable types of gifts, along with their tangible impact:

Clothes

Donated clothing is essential for residents who often arrive with few personal belongings. Items such as warm coats, socks, underwear, and seasonal apparel help residents maintain dignity and comfort. Clothes donations also reduce the shelter’s expenses and allow staff to focus resources elsewhere.

Toiletries

Personal hygiene products like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene items are critical for health and self-esteem. Many residents cannot afford these necessities, so in-kind donations ensure consistent availability and promote wellness.

Food

Non-perishable and fresh food donations help shelters provide nutritious meals without straining their budgets. Partnerships with grocery stores or food suppliers can supply staples and specialty items, supporting meal programs and reducing waste.

Bedding

Items such as blankets, pillows, sheets, and mattresses improve the quality of sleep and overall comfort for shelter residents. Bedding donations are especially important during colder months and can significantly enhance the living environment.

Furniture

Shelters often need furniture like beds, chairs, tables, and storage units to create safe, functional spaces. Donated furniture helps maintain a welcoming atmosphere and supports program activities such as counseling or job training.

Cleaning Products

Maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is vital for resident health and safety. Donations of disinfectants, detergents, mops, and other cleaning supplies help shelters uphold hygiene standards and comply with health regulations.

Professional Services

Beyond physical goods, services such as legal advice, transportation, medical care, and skilled volunteer work can greatly enhance shelter operations. These contributions often fill gaps that cash donations cannot cover directly.

Where Homeless Shelters Should Look for In-Kind Support

Identifying potential sources of in-kind donations requires strategic research and relationship-building. Homeless shelters should focus on companies and organizations whose corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives align with their mission and whose products or services meet shelter needs.

Local businesses engaged in community impact efforts are often eager to support shelters through donations or volunteerism. Additionally, partnerships with retailers, manufacturers, and service providers relevant to shelter operations can yield valuable in-kind gifts. Here are a few key examples:

Walmart

Walmart frequently donates clothing, food, and household essentials through its community giving programs. Their broad product range and national presence make them a strong partner for shelters seeking diverse in-kind support. Not to mention, Walmart’s commitment to fighting hunger and supporting families aligns well with homeless shelter missions.

Procter & Gamble

Procter & Gamble offers donations of toiletries and cleaning products, including trusted brands like Tide, Dawn, and Pampers. Their focus on health and hygiene complements shelter needs, helping residents maintain dignity and wellness.

Dove

Dove specializes in personal care products, including soap, lotion, shampoo, and more. Their product donations support hygiene programs and promote self-confidence among shelter residents, particularly women and children.

IKEA

IKEA is known for donating furniture and bedding items that help shelters create comfortable living spaces. Their affordable, functional designs make them an ideal partner for furnishing shelters and enhancing the resident quality of life.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Bed Bath & Beyond provides household goods, bedding, and cleaning supplies. Their in-kind donations help shelters maintain clean, safe environments and equip residents with essential home items as they transition to stable housing.

Whole Foods

Whole Foods often donates fresh and organic food items, supporting shelters’ efforts to provide nutritious meals. Their emphasis on healthy eating aligns with programs focused on resident wellness and recovery.

Ecolab

Ecolab supplies cleaning and sanitation products, helping shelters uphold rigorous hygiene standards. Their expertise in health and safety makes them a valuable partner for maintaining clean facilities.

How Homeless Shelters Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask

Making a successful in-kind donation request requires a thoughtful, strategic approach. Building long-term relationships with corporate donors involves aligning the shelter’s needs with the company’s goals and making it easy for them to say yes.

Personalize Your Outreach

Research each company’s values and tailor your message to highlight shared goals. Mention any previous collaborations or relevant community initiatives to help build rapport.

Be Specific About Needs

Provide a clear list of desired items or services, explaining how each will support residents or operations. Specificity helps donors understand exactly how they can help.

Highlight Mutual Benefits

Communicate how the donation will enhance the company’s reputation, engage employees, or fulfill CSR objectives. Emphasize the positive community impact their support enables.

Offer Flexible Giving Options

Allow donors to choose from various ways to contribute, accommodating their resources and preferences. Flexibility increases the likelihood of securing support.

Make It Easy to Give

Provide all necessary details upfront, including contact information, delivery instructions, and timelines. Simplifying logistics encourages prompt and hassle-free donations.

Tools and Resources to Help Homeless Shelters Get Started

Using dedicated tools can significantly streamline the process of identifying and securing in-kind donations. Many companies have formal donation programs with application processes, but these opportunities are often scattered across websites and difficult to track manually.

Tools designed for nonprofit professionals help uncover company giving programs that align with a shelter’s mission, saving time and effort. They may even provide direct links to application forms, eligibility criteria, and contact information, enabling more efficient outreach and follow-up.

Double the Donation’s Corporate Giving Program Database

Double the Donation offers a top-tier solution for homeless shelters seeking in-kind donations. Their extensive and searchable database includes thousands of corporate giving programs, covering in-kind gifts, grants, and employee-directed workplace giving opportunities.

By leveraging this resource, nonprofit professionals can quickly identify companies with relevant donation programs, access application details, and manage their outreach efficiently. This data-driven approach empowers shelters to build meaningful partnerships and maximize the impact of in-kind support.


Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Securing in-kind donations is a powerful strategy for homeless shelters to enhance their programs and better serve residents. By identifying specific needs, researching aligned corporate partners, and using strategic outreach methods, shelters can build sustainable support networks that reduce costs and increase impact.

Meanwhile, leveraging tools like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database further streamlines this process, helping organizations uncover opportunities and manage relationships efficiently. Taking these first steps empowers shelters to maximize the value of in-kind gifts and strengthen their mission-driven work.

Unlock More Support with Double the Donation

Corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations are critical to the success of nonprofit events and programs—but sourcing the right partners can be overwhelming. Luckily, Double the Donation streamlines the entire process, helping your team find, secure, and manage corporate support with ease. With our industry-leading corporate giving database, you can quickly identify companies that offer financial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and corporate grants—giving you a data-driven edge in building meaningful partnerships.

Raise more with corporate grants and in-kind gifts; request a demo today!

How Community Clinics Can Secure In-Kind Donations

How Community Clinics Can Secure In-Kind Donations

Community clinics play a vital role in providing accessible healthcare services to underserved populations. These clinics often operate with limited budgets and rely heavily on donations to meet the needs of their patients. While cash donations are essential, in-kind donations can significantly enhance a clinic’s capacity to deliver quality care without straining financial resources.

However, understanding how to identify, request, and manage in-kind donations is crucial for nonprofit professionals working in community clinics. By leveraging strategic partnerships with corporations and local businesses, clinics can build sustainable support networks that amplify their impact. This article explores practical approaches to securing in-kind donations tailored specifically to the unique needs of community clinics.

Table of Contents

  • What Are In-Kind Donations for Community Clinics?
  • Types of In-Kind Donations for Community Clinics
  • Where Community Clinics Should Look for In-Kind Support
  • How Community Clinics Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask
  • Tools and Resources to Help Community Clinics Get Started

What Are In-Kind Donations for Community Clinics?

In-kind donations are contributions of goods, services, or resources, rather than monetary contributions. Unlike traditional cash gifts, which provide financial flexibility, in-kind donations offer tangible items or professional services that directly support an organization’s operations or programs. These donations can include a wide range of items, from office equipment and supplies to specialized expertise or volunteer time.

Across the nonprofit sector, in-kind donations serve as a valuable complement to monetary gifts. They help organizations stretch their budgets by offsetting costs that would otherwise require cash outlays. For community clinics, which often face tight funding constraints, in-kind donations can be especially impactful by providing essential medical and operational resources.

Community clinics benefit uniquely from in-kind donations because their work depends heavily on specific supplies and equipment. Medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and sanitation products are critical to patient care and safety.

By securing in-kind donations, community clinics can focus more resources on expanding services and reaching more patients. These donations reduce overhead costs and enable clinics to maintain high standards of care. For nonprofit professionals, understanding the strategic value of in-kind gifts is key to maximizing fundraising success and advancing the clinic’s mission.

Defining In-Kind Donations

In-kind donations encompass a broad range of non-monetary gifts. They can be physical items like medical equipment or consumables, or services such as legal advice, marketing support, or transportation. Unlike cash donations, these gifts require careful coordination to ensure they meet the organization’s needs and can be effectively utilized.

Why In-Kind Donations Matter for Community Clinics

Community clinics operate in environments where every dollar counts. In-kind donations help fill critical gaps by providing resources that might otherwise be unaffordable. For example, donated pharmaceuticals and vaccines ensure patients receive necessary treatments without the clinic bearing the full cost. Similarly, donated cleaning and sanitation supplies maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff.

Types of In-Kind Donations for Community Clinics

Community clinics can benefit from a diverse array of in-kind donations that support both clinical services and administrative functions. Below are some of the most valuable types of in-kind gifts tailored to this nonprofit vertical.

Medical Supplies

Donations of medical supplies such as gloves, syringes, bandages, and diagnostic tools are essential for daily clinic operations. These items enable healthcare providers to deliver safe and effective care while controlling costs. Luckily, many companies specialize in donating high-quality medical supplies that meet regulatory standards.

Pharmaceuticals & Vaccines

Access to donated pharmaceuticals and vaccines can dramatically improve patient outcomes by ensuring timely treatment and prevention. Pharmaceutical companies often have programs to provide medications and vaccines to community health organizations, helping clinics serve vulnerable populations.

Furniture and Office Supplies

Functional furniture like exam tables, chairs, desks, and filing cabinets creates a comfortable and organized environment for patients and staff. Office supplies, including paper, printers, and stationery, support administrative tasks that keep the clinic running smoothly. Such in-kind donations from companies can help clinics maintain a professional and efficient workspace.

Cleaning & Sanitation Products

Maintaining a clean and hygienic clinic environment is critical for infection control. Donations of cleaning agents, disinfectants, and sanitation equipment help clinics uphold health and safety standards without incurring additional expenses.

Food and Nutrition Support

Some community clinics provide nutritional support or food assistance to patients facing food insecurity. Donations from local food providers can supplement these programs, improving patient health outcomes and community well-being.

Technology and Software

Technology donations, including computers, software licenses, and telehealth platforms, enhance clinic efficiency and patient engagement. Many companies even offer technology grants and software donations that enable clinics to modernize their operations and expand virtual care capabilities.

Transportation Assistance

Transportation services or vouchers help patients overcome barriers to accessing care. Donations of transportation assistance, whether through partnerships with local transit providers or ride-share companies, can increase appointment adherence and improve health outcomes.

Where Community Clinics Should Look for In-Kind Support

Identifying the right sources for in-kind donations requires strategic research and relationship-building. For the best results, community clinics should focus on companies whose corporate social responsibility initiatives align with healthcare access, community well-being, and public health.

Below are some companies known for their in-kind donation programs that align well with the needs of community clinics like yours.

Medline

Medline is a leading supplier of medical products and frequently donates medical supplies and equipment to community health organizations. Their support helps clinics maintain essential inventory and improve patient care quality. Medline’s commitment to healthcare access makes them a natural partner for community clinics.

GE Healthcare

GE Healthcare provides advanced medical technology and equipment donations. Their in-kind support can include diagnostic machines and imaging devices, which are critical for clinics expanding their service offerings.

Pfizer

Pfizer’s pharmaceutical donation programs provide medications and vaccines to underserved populations. Their in-kind support directly addresses patient treatment needs and public health priorities, making the company a key partner for community clinics.

Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson supports community health through donations of medical products and health education resources. Their broad portfolio of healthcare goods aligns with clinics’ efforts to deliver comprehensive care.

Microsoft

Microsoft offers technology grants and software donations that help clinics improve administrative functions and telehealth services. Their support enables clinics to leverage digital tools for better patient management and outreach.

Clorox

Clorox donates cleaning and sanitation products essential for maintaining safe clinic environments. Their support ensures clinics can uphold hygiene standards critical to patient and staff safety.

How Community Clinics Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask

Making a successful in-kind donation request requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Building long-term relationships with corporate donors is essential, as is aligning the clinic’s needs with the company’s mission and giving priorities. A well-crafted ask makes it easy for businesses to say yes and fosters ongoing support.

Personalize Your Outreach

Research the prospective donor’s CSR goals and tailor your message to highlight shared values. Reference any previous support or relevant initiatives to build rapport.

Be Clear and Specific

Specify the exact items or services needed and explain how they will support patient care or clinic operations. Concrete requests are easier for companies to evaluate and fulfill.

Highlight Mutual Benefits

Communicate how the donation will enhance the company’s reputation and community presence. Emphasize opportunities for employee involvement or recognition.

Offer Flexible Giving Options

Allow donors to choose from a range of giving methods to suit their resources and preferences. Flexibility increases the likelihood of securing support.

Facilitate Easy Follow-Through

Provide all necessary logistical details upfront, including shipping addresses, deadlines, and contact information. This clarity streamlines the donation process.

Tools and Resources to Help Community Clinics Get Started

Securing in-kind donations can be a complex and time-consuming process without the right tools. Luckily, dedicated platforms like Double the Donation help nonprofit professionals streamline research and outreach efforts by consolidating information about corporate giving programs.

Many companies offer in-kind donation opportunities through formal programs with specific eligibility criteria and application processes. However, these opportunities are often scattered across multiple websites and are difficult to track manually. Using a centralized tool saves time and increases the chances of finding the best matches.

Double the Donation’s corporate giving database provides community clinics with access to thousands of verified programs, including in-kind donations, grants, and workplace giving initiatives. This resource helps organizations uncover companies aligned with their mission, access application links, and organize outreach efforts efficiently.

By leveraging such tools, community clinics can expand their network of potential in-kind partners, improve fundraising outcomes, and focus more on delivering impactful healthcare services.


Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Securing in-kind donations is a powerful strategy for community clinics to enhance their capacity and extend their reach. By clearly identifying needs, researching aligned corporate partners, and making thoughtful donation requests, clinics can build sustainable support networks that reduce costs and improve patient care.

Utilizing tools like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database streamlines the process, helping clinics uncover new opportunities and manage outreach effectively. Taking these first steps empowers community clinics to maximize the impact of in-kind gifts and advance their mission of providing accessible, quality healthcare to those who need it most.

Unlock More Support with Double the Donation

Corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations are critical to the success of nonprofit events and programs, but sourcing the right partners can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Luckily, Double the Donation streamlines the entire process, helping your team find, secure, and manage corporate support with ease.

With our industry-leading corporate giving database, you can quickly identify companies that offer financial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and corporate grants, providing you with a data-driven edge in building meaningful partnerships. Raise more with corporate grants and in-kind gifts; get a demo today!

How Children's Health Foundations Can Secure In-Kind Donations

How Children’s Health Foundations Can Secure In-Kind Donations

Children’s health foundations play a vital role in supporting the well-being and development of children facing medical challenges. These organizations often rely on a variety of resources to fulfill their mission, and in-kind donations represent a powerful avenue to supplement traditional fundraising efforts. Unlike cash gifts, in-kind donations provide tangible goods or services that directly support program delivery, reduce operational costs, and enhance the experience of children and families served.

Securing in-kind donations requires a strategic approach tailored to the unique needs of these organizations. Children’s health foundations benefit immensely from contributions such as medical equipment, toys, and educational tools that improve care environments and patient outcomes. By understanding how to identify, request, and steward these gifts, development professionals can unlock new opportunities to advance their mission.

In this article, we will explore what in-kind donations are, the types most valuable to children’s health foundations, where to find potential donors, and best practices for making the ask. We will also introduce tools that can streamline the process, helping your team maximize impact through smarter fundraising strategies.

Table of Contents

  • What Are In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations?
  • Types of In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations
  • Where Children’s Health Foundations Should Look for In-Kind Support
  • How Children’s Health Foundations Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask
  • Tools and Resources to Help Children’s Health Foundations Get Started

What Are In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations?

In-kind donations refer to non-cash gifts provided to a nonprofit organization. These can include physical items like equipment, supplies, or products, as well as services such as professional expertise, volunteer time, or event support. Unlike traditional monetary donations, in-kind gifts directly supply the resources needed to operate programs or maintain facilities without requiring the nonprofit to purchase them on its own.

For organizations across all sectors, in-kind donations offer a way to stretch limited budgets and access specialized goods or services that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive. They also foster partnerships with businesses and community members who want to contribute in ways beyond writing checks.

When it comes to children’s health foundations, in-kind donations take on particular significance. These organizations often require specialized medical equipment and supplies to support pediatric care, as well as items that create a welcoming and comforting environment for children and their families. By securing these gifts, Children’s Health Foundations can allocate more financial resources toward direct patient services and innovative programs. In-kind donations thus become a strategic asset that enhances both mission delivery and donor engagement.

How In-Kind Donations Complement Cash Gifts

While cash donations offer flexibility, in-kind gifts provide specificity and immediacy. For example, a donation of pediatric medical monitors from a healthcare technology company directly equips a clinic, whereas cash might be used to purchase such equipment later. Both forms of giving are essential, but in-kind donations often fill critical gaps and reduce procurement timelines.

Moreover, in-kind donations can deepen corporate relationships by aligning a company’s products or services with the nonprofit’s mission. This alignment fosters authentic partnerships that benefit both parties and ultimately improve outcomes for children served.

Types of In-Kind Donations for Children’s Health Foundations

Children’s Health Foundations can benefit from a diverse range of in-kind donations that support their programs and operations. Below are some specific examples that illustrate the breadth and impact of these gifts.

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Donations of pediatric medical equipment, such as monitors, wheelchairs, or specialized beds, are invaluable. These items directly enhance the quality of care and comfort for young patients. Additionally, supplies, including bandages, gloves, and sanitizers, help maintain a safe and hygienic environment, thereby reducing infection risks.

Toys and Games

Providing toys, games, and creative play materials helps children cope with stress and anxiety during medical treatments. Such donations can brighten hospital rooms and create positive distractions that support emotional healing.

Online Learning Tools

Educational software and digital learning platforms enable children to continue their studies while hospitalized or recovering at home. These tools support cognitive development and help maintain a sense of normalcy during challenging times.

Snacks and Nutritional Products

Healthy snacks and nutritional supplements can improve patient well-being and provide significant comfort. These items are especially important for children with dietary restrictions or those undergoing treatments that affect appetite.

Furniture and Facility Supplies

Comfortable furniture for waiting rooms, play areas, and patient rooms enhances the environment and the overall experience for families and staff. Meanwhile, donated cleaning supplies ensure that facilities remain safe and sanitary, which is critical in healthcare settings.

Professional Services and Skilled Volunteer Work

Beyond physical goods, services such as legal advice, marketing support, or transportation can be donated to build organizational capacity. Skilled volunteers can assist with event planning, IT support, or patient engagement initiatives, providing cost-saving benefits and expertise.

Where Children’s Health Foundations Should Look for In-Kind Support

Identifying potential sources of in-kind donations requires a strategic approach. As a result, children’s health foundations should begin by researching companies with corporate social responsibility programs that align with their mission of improving children’s health and well-being. Many businesses prioritize community impact and seek partnerships with nonprofits that reflect their values.

Below is a list of companies known for their in-kind giving programs that align well with the needs of children’s health foundations:

Clorox

Clorox often donates cleaning supplies and disinfectants, which are essential for maintaining sterile environments in healthcare settings. Their support helps children’s health foundations uphold high standards of hygiene and safety.

IKEA

IKEA provides furniture donations that create comfortable, child-friendly spaces in hospitals and clinics. Their products help transform clinical environments into welcoming areas for children and families.

Wayfair

Similarly, Wayfair offers a wide range of furniture and home goods that can be used to furnish patient rooms, waiting areas, and administrative offices. Their donations contribute to a more supportive atmosphere for care delivery.

Gerber

Gerber donates nutritional products and snacks tailored for infants and young children. These donations support the dietary needs of pediatric patients and promote healthy growth during treatment.

Danone

Danone provides specialized nutritional supplements and snacks that cater to children with medical dietary requirements. Their contributions enhance overall patient care and comfort.

Publix

Publix supports nonprofits through food donations, including healthy snacks and meal items. Their community engagement aligns with efforts to nourish children undergoing medical care.

Hasbro

Hasbro donates toys and games that help children cope with hospitalization and medical procedures. Their gifts foster joy and distraction, which are essential for emotional healing.

Build-A-Bear

Build-A-Bear offers stuffed animals and comfort items that provide emotional support to children facing health challenges. These donations create a sense of companionship and security.

Philips Healthcare

Philips Healthcare donates advanced medical equipment and technology that improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Their support directly enhances clinical outcomes for pediatric patients.

3M

3M provides medical supplies and safety products that help maintain infection control and patient safety. Their donations are critical to operational excellence in healthcare environments.

How Children’s Health Foundations Should Make the In-Kind Donation Ask

Making a thoughtful and strategic ask for in-kind donations is essential to building lasting partnerships with corporate donors. A well-crafted approach demonstrates professionalism, aligns the nonprofit’s needs with the company’s goals, and makes it easy for businesses to say yes.

Here’s how you can do so:

Start by personalizing outreach efforts. Research the company’s mission, past giving history, and values to tailor your message. Highlight how your organization’s work complements their CSR objectives and community impact priorities.

Clearly articulate what specific items or services you need and explain how these donations will be used to benefit children and families. Providing concrete examples helps donors understand the tangible impact of their support.

Communicate the benefits to the company, such as increased visibility through event recognition, enhanced community goodwill, opportunities for employee engagement, and potential tax incentives. Emphasizing mutual value strengthens the case for partnership.

Offer flexible giving options to accommodate different donor capacities. This might include physical product donations, gift cards, sponsorship of events, or provision of professional services. Flexibility increases the likelihood of securing support.

Finally, make it easy for donors to follow through by providing a detailed wish list, shipping instructions, and a dedicated contact person. Clear communication and responsiveness throughout the process foster trust and encourage repeat giving.

Tools and Resources to Help Children’s Health Foundations Get Started

Leveraging dedicated tools can significantly streamline the process of identifying and securing in-kind donations. Many companies have established donation programs with specific application procedures, but these opportunities are often scattered across multiple platforms and websites, making it difficult to track on your own.

Using a centralized resource saves time and effort by aggregating information about corporate giving programs, eligibility criteria, and application links. This enables children’s health organizations to quickly uncover companies whose CSR initiatives align with their missions.

For example, Double the Donation offers a comprehensive corporate giving program database that includes thousands of verified programs, covering in-kind donations, grants, and workplace giving. This platform empowers nonprofit professionals to identify high-value corporate partners and manage relationships effectively, giving them a competitive edge in securing critical resources.


Wrapping Up & Additional Resources

Securing in-kind donations is a strategic way for children’s health foundations to enhance their programs, reduce costs, and deepen community partnerships. By identifying specific needs, researching aligned corporate donors, and making thoughtful asks, nonprofits can unlock valuable resources that directly benefit children’s health and well-being.

Utilizing tools like Double the Donation’s corporate giving database streamlines the process, saving time and expanding access to high-impact opportunities. Taking these first steps empowers your team to build sustainable in-kind donation strategies that support your mission and amplify your impact.

Maximize Your In-Kind Donation Potential with Double the Donation

Corporate sponsorships and in-kind donations are critical to the success of nonprofit events and programs, but sourcing the right partners can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Double the Donation streamlines the entire process, helping your team find, secure, and manage corporate support with ease.

With our industry-leading corporate giving database, you can quickly identify companies that offer financial sponsorships, in-kind donations, and corporate grants, giving you a data-driven edge in building meaningful partnerships. Raise more with corporate grants and in-kind gifts; get a demo today!

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: What to Know

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Appends: What to Know

Employment information is a valuable asset in nonprofit fundraising. It can help identify matching gift opportunities, uncover potential corporate partners, and personalize donor outreach. But how should your organization go about collecting this data? That’s where the question of asking for employer info vs. using appends comes in.

In other words, should you rely on donors to self-report where they work, or use a data append service to fill in the blanks?

Each method has its benefits and limitations, and understanding these differences is crucial for building a strong, complete, and accurate donor database. In this post, we’ll break down what nonprofits should know about both approaches and how to decide which is right for your organization. Specifically, we’ll cover:

Whether you’re just starting to collect employment data or are looking to refine your current approach, this guide will help you weigh your options and make informed decisions about how you do so.

By understanding how to gather and use this information effectively, your nonprofit can unlock new opportunities for engagement, funding, and long-term donor relationships. Let’s dive in!

The value of employer info in nonprofit fundraising

Understanding where your donors work is more than a data point; it’s a strategic advantage. Employer information opens the door to a range of fundraising opportunities that can significantly amplify donor impact and deepen engagement.

After all, tons of companies offer employee-led giving programs. When you know where your supporters work, you can easily determine if they qualify for these programs and configure targeted next steps accordingly.

Here are just a few of the opportunities that employment information can help uncover:

  • Matching Gifts: Many companies match donations their employees make to nonprofits, often doubling or even tripling the original gift. Knowing a donor’s employer helps identify matching gift eligibility and streamline follow-up accordingly.
  • Volunteer Incentives: Some employers offer monetary grants or other incentives in exchange for volunteer hours logged by their employees. Capturing employer info allows you to promote these volunteer programs to the right supporters.
  • Payroll Giving: Payroll giving programs enable employees to donate directly from their paychecks. Identifying where a supporter works enables you to guide them toward these convenient giving options.
  • In-Kind Support and Sponsorships: Employer data can reveal connections to businesses that may offer non-cash support, such as products, services, or corporate sponsorships.
  • Targeted Engagement: With accurate employer information, you can personalize outreach and suggest relevant corporate giving options, maximizing impact for both your organization and your supporters.

In short, employer information helps nonprofits move from one-size-fits-all fundraising to smarter, more strategic engagement. The more you know about where your donors work, the better positioned you are to connect their personal giving to broader opportunities through their employer.

Method #1: Asking for employer info directly

One of the most straightforward and effective ways to gather employment data is to ask donors directly. This method relies on self-reporting, or inviting donors to share their employer information at specific points in their journey with your organization.

What it means:

Asking for employer info directly means including a field in your donation form, event registration, volunteer sign-up, or post-gift follow-up where donors can share where they work. This approach is entirely opt-in and allows you to gather current, self-reported data straight from the source.

Collecting employment information directly from donors

Pros:

  • High Accuracy: Because the data comes directly from the donor, it’s more likely to be correct and up to date. Asking each time an individual engages with your cause reduces the odds of the information going stale, too.
  • Opportunities to Connect Supporters to Next Steps: When you ask donors where they work during or immediately after a donation, it’s easier to connect them to the next opportunity, like submitting a matching gift or volunteer grant request.
  • Gets Individuals Thinking About Eligibility As They Give: The point of donation is often the height of supporter engagement. Requesting employment info at this time gets donors and other supporters thinking about their eligibility as they give, which can even function as a generosity motivator or giving catalyst.

Cons:

  • Gaps in Completion: Donors may skip optional form fields, especially during a streamlined donation or registration process, while others may opt to give offline. This would leave your organization with blank lines in your database, unless you had a backup method in place for collecting this information.

Best practices for success:

  • Make It Optional and Simple: Keep the question brief. For example, consider an additional form field asking “Where do you work?”—and don’t require the information to complete a transaction.
  • Explain the Why: Let donors know why you’re asking by providing context around the form. A simple note like “Your employer may match your gift and increase your impact” encourages participation.
  • Include It Strategically: Add the field to donation forms, confirmation pages, volunteer registrations, and thank-you emails where engagement is already high. It’s easy to do with Double the Donation’s integration options!
  • Follow Up: If the employer field is left blank, consider a polite follow-up email asking for the information and explaining the benefits to both the donor and your mission.
  • Use the Data Promptly: If you collect employer info, make sure it’s tied to direct action, like checking for match eligibility or tracking corporate volunteer hours.

💡 Key Takeaway: Asking for employer information directly can be a highly effective way to gather accurate data and engage donors more deeply. This is especially true when paired with a clear purpose and thoughtful timing.

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: Getting Started With Double the Donation

Method #2: Utilizing employer appends and employer data enrichment

When donor records lack employment information, a data append can help fill in the blanks at scale. This method uses external databases to match donor records with publicly available or proprietary employment data, giving your organization a broader view of where your supporters work.

What it means:

An employer append essentially involves sending a list of donor names, email addresses, and other identifying details to a trusted data provider. The provider then returns employment information for matched records, typically including company name, industry, and even workplace giving eligibility and next steps. This process can enrich your CRM without requiring any action from the donor.

Collecting donor information through an employer append

Pros:

  • Efficient and Scalable: Append hundreds or thousands of donor records in a single batch, saving time and manual effort while scaling up the information available to you.
  • Fills in Gaps: Even with a robust data-collection strategy, you’re not likely to have employment data for every individual in your supporter base. An employer append is perfect for uncovering employer information in legacy data, unresponsive donors, or those who skip form fields.
  • Revenue-Driving Potential: Appending helps connect supporters to their workplace giving programs quickly, leading to more matching gifts, volunteer grant opportunities, and stronger corporate partnership leads.
  • No Disruption to the Donor Journey: Because this method functions entirely behind the scenes, there’s no negative impact on the donor experience or giving flow.

Cons:

  • Potential for Inaccuracy: Matches are based on probability and third-party sources, which can occasionally return outdated or incorrect data.
  • Cost: Most employer append services charge based on volume or subscription, making it a significant investment you’ll need to plan for.

Best practices for success:

  • Start with Clean Data: Ensure your existing donor records (i.e., names, emails, addresses) are accurate and up to date before submitting them for an append.
  • Use a Trusted Provider: Work with a reputable vendor that specializes in nonprofit employment data and can deliver high-confidence matches.
  • Validate Where Possible: If a donor responds or updates their info later, compare it to appended results and adjust the results accordingly.
  • Combine with Workplace Giving Tools: Integrate your new employment data with workplace giving software to automatically prompt eligible supporters with next steps following the donation or volunteer registration flow.
  • Refresh Regularly: Employment changes over time. Consider appending your file annually or semi-annually to keep your data fresh and relevant.

💡 Key Takeaway: Utilizing employer appends allows nonprofits to dramatically expand their understanding of who their donors are without relying solely on self-reported information. When done strategically, it can accelerate your workplace giving efforts and turn hidden data into new revenue opportunities.

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: Getting Started With Double the Donation

Method #3: Taking a combined approach

The most effective strategy for collecting employment data often isn’t choosing between asking supporters or using appends; it’s combining both. By blending direct collection with employer appends, your nonprofit can build a more complete, accurate, and actionable database while maximizing both reach and reliability.

What it means:

A combined approach involves collecting employer information directly from donors through forms, surveys, and follow-ups, while also running periodic employer appends to fill in the blanks or update existing records. This method leverages the strengths of both strategies and minimizes their individual limitations.

For example, you might collect employer info on your donation forms and then run an append on all records that remain blank, or use appends to verify and enrich self-reported data over time.

Pros:

  • Maximum Coverage: You get the best of both worlds: accurate self-reported data and a broader reach through appends. As your database grows, a combined approach ensures new and existing records remain as up-to-date and complete as possible.
  • Stronger Personalization and Segmentation: With more complete data, you can confidently tailor outreach, identify corporate giving opportunities, and create targeted campaigns.
  • Increased Workplace Giving Revenue: More employment data means more potential matches and grants identified, and more donors ultimately connected to workplace giving programs.

Cons:

  • More Complex to Manage: Running both processes requires careful coordination, particular workflows, and detailed attention to data hygiene.
  • Costs Still Apply: Append services still require a budget, and collecting directly can demand time and resources for training, communication, and follow-up.
  • Duplicate or Conflicting Data: You may encounter discrepancies between self-reported info and appended data, requiring validation and thoughtful resolution.

Best practices for success:

  • Create a Data Workflow: Establish clear processes for collecting, appending, validating, and updating employment information across your database.
  • Segment Your Data: Keep track of how employer data was collected (self-reported vs. appended) and treat each group accordingly when testing campaigns or messaging.
  • Prioritize Data Accuracy: When there’s a conflict, favor donor-reported data unless you have a compelling reason to override it. Always aim to confirm before acting.
  • Use Clear Messaging: When asking for employer info, explain how it helps increase impact (e.g., uncovering matching gifts or volunteer grants) to encourage more donors to participate.
  • Schedule Regular Updates: Use append services on a regular basis to keep your records current, especially as employment status frequently changes.

💡 Key Takeaway: By combining direct collection and employer appends, your nonprofit can establish a smarter, more reliable approach to employment data. It’s a strategy that balances donor engagement with data scale, giving you the tools to increase revenue, deepen relationships, and tap into the full potential of workplace giving.

Integrating employment data into your fundraising strategy

Collecting employment data is only valuable if you use it. That’s why the most effective nonprofits treat this information as a core part of their fundraising strategy.

When integrated thoughtfully, employer information can inform everything from campaign planning to workplace giving outreach and corporate partnership development.

Here’s how to make employment data work for your fundraising goals:

1. Identify and Promote Workplace Giving Opportunities

Once you know where a supporter works, you can check if their employer offers a matching gift, volunteer grant, or payroll giving program. From there, you can use this information to trigger workplace giving marketing efforts: personalize follow-up emails, include employer-specific instructions, and make it easy for donors to complete the process of getting involved, ultimately increasing the impact of every gift.

2. Strengthen Corporate Relationships

If multiple donors or volunteers work for the same company, that can be a natural lead-in for broader partnership opportunities. Use this data to approach businesses for event sponsorships, in-kind donations, team volunteer days, or dedicated workplace giving campaigns, backed by the fact that their employees already support your mission.

3. Enhance Stewardship and Donor Experiences

When you receive third-party disbursements, like matching gifts or volunteer grants, it’s a valuable opportunity to thank donors and reinforce your appreciation. Having employment data on hand allows you to follow up promptly and personally, recognizing both their direct and facilitated support.

Mentioning a donor’s employer in thank-you messages or impact reports (when appropriate) shows you’re paying attention and actively working to maximize their impact. This thoughtful, personalized stewardship builds trust, deepens loyalty, and improves the donor experience over time.

Integrating employment data into your stewardship strategy isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about working smarter with insights you likely already have (or can easily collect). When used well, employer information becomes more than just a database field; it’s a powerful tool to drive engagement, gratitude, and lasting impact.


Wrapping up & additional resources

When it comes to collecting employment data, both methods have value, and often, the best strategy combines them. Here’s what it comes down to: asking for employer info vs. using appends isn’t necessarily an either/or decision. Instead, it’s about understanding how each approach fits into your broader data and fundraising goals.

Directly asking donors provides accurate, relationship-building insights, while employer appends can efficiently fill in gaps and scale your outreach. By leveraging both, your nonprofit can build a more complete picture of your donor base and turn workplace connections into meaningful opportunities for engagement, giving, and growth.

Interested in learning more about how supporter employer information can benefit your organization? Check out these additional resources:

Asking for Employer Info vs. Using Employer Appends: You can do both with Double the Donation!

Key Payroll Giving Metrics to Track at Nonprofits

8 Key Payroll Giving Metrics to Track at Nonprofits

In the ever-evolving landscape of nonprofit fundraising, understanding the effectiveness of payroll giving programs is crucial. These programs not only facilitate employee donations but also enhance engagement and foster a culture of giving within organizations. To maximize the impact of payroll giving, nonprofits must track specific metrics that provide insights into participation, financial contributions, and overall program success. In this article, we will explore the essential payroll giving metrics that nonprofits should monitor to ensure their programs are thriving.

1. Employee Participation Rate

The employee participation rate is a fundamental payroll giving metric that reflects the percentage of employees engaged in the payroll giving program. A higher participation rate indicates a successful program and greater employee engagement.

Understanding Participation Rates

Tracking the participation rate allows nonprofits to gauge the effectiveness of their outreach and engagement strategies. In 2024, payroll giving programs saw a significant increase in participation, highlighting the growing interest in workplace giving initiatives. By analyzing this metric, organizations can identify trends and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Strategies to Increase Participation

  • Awareness Campaigns: Regularly communicate the benefits of payroll giving through newsletters, social media, and internal communications.
  • Incentives: Consider offering recognition or rewards for employees who participate, fostering a sense of community and commitment.
  • Onboarding Programs: Introduce payroll giving during the onboarding process to instill a culture of giving from the start.

2. Average Donation Amount

The average donation amount per employee is another critical metric that helps assess the financial impact of the payroll giving program. This figure provides insights into employee generosity and the overall effectiveness of the program.

Analyzing Donation Trends

In 2024, the average annual employee donation reached $744, with an average company match of $730. Monitoring this metric allows nonprofits to identify patterns in giving and adjust their fundraising strategies accordingly. Understanding the average donation amount can also help organizations set realistic fundraising goals.

Encouraging Higher Donations

  • Matching Gifts: Promote employer matching gift programs to encourage employees to increase their contributions.
  • Impact Stories: Share stories of how donations make a difference, motivating employees to give more.
  • Flexible Giving Options: Allow employees to choose their donation amounts and frequency, making it easier for them to contribute.

3. Total Funds Raised

Total funds raised through payroll giving programs provide a clear picture of the program’s overall success. This metric highlights the cumulative impact of employee contributions and the effectiveness of the program in generating revenue for the nonprofit.

Understanding the Financial Impact

Payroll giving programs collectively raised approximately $5 billion annually, underscoring their significance in the nonprofit sector. By tracking total funds raised, organizations can assess the effectiveness of their payroll giving initiatives and identify areas for improvement.

Strategies to Maximize Funds Raised

  • Regular Reporting: Provide updates on fundraising goals and achievements to keep employees informed and engaged.
  • Collaborative Campaigns: Partner with other organizations or departments to create joint fundraising initiatives that amplify impact.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Solicit feedback from employees on how to improve the payroll giving program and increase contributions.

4. Employer Matching Rate

The employer matching rate indicates the proportion of employers offering to match employee donations. This metric is essential for understanding the corporate commitment to philanthropy and its impact on employee contributions.

Encouraging Corporate Participation

In 2024, 39% of surveyed companies indicated plans to expand their workplace giving programs, often including matching initiatives. By tracking the employer matching rate, nonprofits can identify potential partnerships and leverage corporate support to enhance their fundraising efforts.

Strategies to Increase Employer Matching

  • Awareness Initiatives: Educate employees about matching gift programs and how they can maximize their contributions.
  • Corporate Partnerships: Build relationships with companies that have robust matching gift programs to encourage participation.
  • Highlighting Impact: Showcase the difference that matching gifts make in achieving organizational goals.

5. Donor Retention Rate

The donor retention rate measures the percentage of employees who continue their contributions over time. High retention rates indicate sustained employee engagement and program effectiveness.

Understanding Retention Challenges

Research shows that 91% of nonprofits stop acknowledging recurring gifts by the third month, which can negatively impact donor retention. By tracking this metric, organizations can identify retention challenges and implement strategies to improve donor loyalty.

Strategies to Enhance Retention

  • Personalized Communication: Send personalized thank-you notes and updates to acknowledge contributions and demonstrate impact.
  • Regular Engagement: Keep donors informed about the organization’s work and how their contributions are making a difference.
  • Feedback Opportunities: Provide avenues for donors to share their thoughts and suggestions, fostering a sense of ownership and involvement.

6. Program Growth Rate

The program growth rate reflects the expansion of the payroll giving program in terms of new participants and increased contributions. This metric demonstrates the program’s scalability and the organization’s ability to attract and retain donors.

Tracking Growth Trends

In 2024, 39% of surveyed companies indicated plans to expand their workplace giving programs, reflecting a growing trend in corporate philanthropy. By monitoring the program growth rate, nonprofits can assess the effectiveness of their outreach efforts and identify opportunities for expansion.

Strategies to Foster Growth

  • Targeted Outreach: Identify and engage potential participants through targeted communication strategies.
  • Partnership Development: Collaborate with other organizations to expand reach and attract new donors.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regularly evaluate and refine the payroll giving program to enhance its appeal and effectiveness.

7. Impact Reporting and Transparency

Impact reporting and transparency refer to the clarity and frequency with which the nonprofit communicates the outcomes of the payroll giving program. This metric builds trust and encourages continued participation.

Importance of Transparency

Companies like PwC have successfully addressed employee participation barriers by implementing “opt-out” models for new hires and providing transparent impact reporting. By tracking this metric, nonprofits can enhance their credibility and foster a culture of giving.

Strategies for Effective Reporting

  • Regular Updates: Share regular updates on the impact of payroll giving contributions through newsletters and social media.
  • Visual Storytelling: Use infographics and videos to illustrate the impact of donations and engage employees.
  • Feedback Loops: Encourage employees to provide feedback on impact reporting to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.

8. Administrative Efficiency

The last of our payroll giving metrics to track has to do with administrative efficiency. Administrative efficiency measures the effectiveness of the systems and processes in place to manage the payroll giving program. This metric ensures smooth operation and minimizes errors or delays in processing donations.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

Modern cloud-based platforms have dramatically simplified payroll giving processes, requiring minimal intervention from internal teams. By tracking administrative efficiency, nonprofits can identify areas for improvement and streamline their operations.

Strategies to Improve Efficiency

  • Technology Integration: Utilize technology solutions to automate donation processing and reporting.
  • Training and Support: Provide training for staff to ensure they are equipped to manage the payroll giving program effectively.
  • Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of the payroll giving program to identify inefficiencies and implement improvements.

Conclusion

Tracking payroll giving metrics is crucial for nonprofits aiming to optimize the impact of their fundraising efforts. By monitoring employee participation rates, average donation amounts, total funds raised, employer matching rates, donor retention rates, program growth rates, impact reporting, and administrative efficiency, organizations can gain valuable insights into their payroll giving programs. Implementing strategies to enhance these metrics will not only improve fundraising outcomes but also foster a culture of giving within the organization. As the landscape of corporate philanthropy continues to evolve, nonprofits must remain proactive in leveraging payroll giving to achieve their missions.

Enhance Your Payroll Giving Strategy with Double the Donation

Ready to take your nonprofit’s payroll giving program to the next level? Double the Donation’s Payroll Giving Module is your key to unlocking sustained corporate support. With our comprehensive tools, you can effortlessly identify eligible donors, guide them through the donation process, and capitalize on multiple revenue opportunities. Our user-friendly website plugin, insightful dashboards, and ready-to-use marketing materials are designed to streamline your efforts and drive recurring donations.

Don’t miss out on the potential of payroll giving. Learn how you can grow payroll giving revenue with Double the Donation. Request a personalized demo today!

Track payroll giving metrics and get started with Double the Donation.

Payroll Giving FAQ What Fundraisers Want to Know

Payroll Giving FAQ | What Fundraisers Want to Know

Payroll giving is a powerful tool that allows employees to contribute to nonprofit causes directly from their paychecks. This method of giving not only simplifies the donation process for employees but also provides organizations with a steady stream of funding. In this comprehensive payroll giving FAQ, we’ll explore the ins and outs of payroll giving, addressing common questions and concerns that nonprofits may have.

These include:

Payroll giving doesn’t have to be complicated. By unveiling the truths behind these common inquiries, we hope to guide your team through the process of growing your revenue with the programs. Keep in mind that with the right tips and tools, there’s a lot of potential there that you don’t want to overlook.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in with the basics.

What Is Payroll Giving?

Payroll giving, also known as automatic payroll deductions, is a type of corporate giving program that enables employees to donate a portion of their salary to charitable organizations. This system allows for seamless contributions, making it easier for employees to support causes they care about without the need for manual transactions.

Payroll giving programs illustration

If you’re interested in learning more about payroll giving, we recommend checking out our deep dive into the topic: How to Earn More Payroll Donation Revenue (A Strategy Guide).

How Does Payroll Giving Work?

Payroll giving essentially functions through a partnership between employers, employees, nonprofits, and a Payroll Giving system that connects them.

Let’s take a look at a step-by-step breakdown of how the process actually works:

  1. Employer Sets Up a Scheme: First, an employer needs to register with a Payroll Giving agency. These agencies are approved organisations that handle the distribution of donations to charities. Once registered, the employer can offer the scheme to employees as part of their workplace benefits.
  2. Employee Chooses to Participate: Employees who want to give simply fill out a form—either online or through HR—stating how much they want to donate and which charity (or charities) they want to support. There’s no minimum amount, and donations can be changed or stopped at any time.
  3. Donations Are Deducted Automatically: The donation amount is deducted automatically from the employee’s gross salary, often before tax is calculated. This means the donor gets immediate tax relief, and the charity receives the full benefit.
  4. Payroll Giving Platform Distributes the Funds: The employer sends the collected donations to the Payroll Giving platform, which then distributes the money to the specified charities. This usually happens on a monthly basis, providing charities with a reliable income stream.
  5. Charities Receive the Full Donation: Once the Payroll Giving agency processes the donation, the chosen charities receive the full amount pledged by the employee.

In short, payroll giving is a hassle-free way for donors to support charitable causes with maximum impact and minimum effort—straight from their regular paycheck.

What Are the Benefits of Payroll Giving for Nonprofits?

Payroll giving offers a range of valuable advantages for nonprofits, making it a robust and sustainable fundraising tool.

Here’s how charitable organizations can reap the benefits from this type of giving:

  • Reliable, Regular Income
    One of the biggest advantages is consistency. Donations through payroll giving are deducted each pay cycle, meaning nonprofits receive a steady flow of funds they can count on month after month. This predictability helps with budgeting, planning, and sustaining long-term projects.
  • Low Administration Effort
    Because donations are processed through payroll giving platforms rather than typical donation pages, charities don’t need to manage individual donor transactions or paperwork. This reduces administrative costs and effort, allowing teams to focus more on their mission.
  • No Transaction Fees
    Unlike traditional donation methods, payroll giving typically incurs no transaction fees, meaning the full amount goes directly to the nonprofit.
  • Higher Value Donations
    Payroll Giving often results in higher-value donations compared to one-off gifts. Since the money is deducted automatically and regularly, donors are more likely to commit to giving more over time without feeling the financial pinch.
  • Engaged, Loyal Donor Base
    Payroll donors tend to be more consistent and long-term supporters. Their commitment often translates into deeper engagement, advocacy, and even involvement in other fundraising activities, too.
  • Access to Corporate Support
    Many employers offer matched giving, where they match or boost employees’ donations. This doubles the impact for the nonprofit and can lead to broader philanthropic engagement. Not to mention, having multiple payroll giving donors from the same company can signal to a nonprofit a potential corporate partnership opportunity!

For nonprofits looking to build sustainable revenue streams and deepen relationships with supporters, payroll giving is a smart, efficient, and scalable solution.

How Can Nonprofits Encourage Payroll Giving?

Encouraging Payroll Giving requires a strategic blend of awareness, partnership, and ongoing engagement. While the process is simple for employees, nonprofits need to take active steps to promote the option and make it easy for supporters to get involved. Here’s how:

1. Register as an Eligible Cause

Ensure your nonprofit is listed as an eligible organization within leading payroll giving platforms. This process may involve submitting documentation such as your financial records, proof of 501(c)(3) status, a mission overview, and more.

2. Raise Awareness

Inform your audience about the benefits of payroll giving through newsletters, social media, your website, and beyond. As you begin marketing payroll giving, be sure to highlight how easy it is to participate and the impact their contributions can make.

3. Offer Incentives

Consider providing incentives for employees who participate in payroll giving. This could include recognition in newsletters, exclusive updates on the impact of their donations, or special events for payroll givers.

Take this payroll giving FAQ further: Get Double the Donation's complete guide.

What Are the Tax Implications of Payroll Giving?

One of the standout features of payroll giving is its tax efficiency, making it beneficial not just for the charity but also for the donor. Here’s how the tax implications work:

Payroll giving donations are taken directly from an employee’s gross salary, before income tax is applied. This means the donor pays less tax overall, and the charity receives more of the intended donation upfront. There’s no need for the charity to reclaim tax, because it’s already accounted for in the process.

Additionally, unlike other tax-deductible donations, payroll giving doesn’t require the donor to complete a self-assessment tax return or any forms. The process is seamless, handled by the employer’s payroll department and the payroll giving platform.

What Are Some Common Challenges with Payroll Giving?

While payroll giving offers clear benefits for both donors and charities, it’s not without its challenges. Understanding these hurdles can help nonprofits and employers address them proactively and improve participation.

Here are some of the most common issues organizations may face:

Limited awareness among employees

Many employees may not be aware of their company’s payroll giving program. Nonprofits should work closely with companies to ensure that employees are informed about the opportunity to give.

Lack of promotion by nonprofits

Many nonprofits fail to actively promote payroll giving, either due to limited resources or a focus on other fundraising streams. As a result, supporters aren’t encouraged or reminded to consider giving through their payroll.

Administrative delays

The process involves multiple parties—employers, agencies, and charities—which can sometimes lead to delays in donations being processed and distributed. This may impact cash flow for nonprofits and cause confusion for donors.

Maintaining long-term engagement

Keeping payroll giving donors engaged over time can be challenging, especially since the giving process is automatic. Without regular updates and recognition, donors may feel disconnected from the impact of their support.


Wrapping Up & Next Steps

Payroll giving is a valuable avenue for nonprofits to secure funding and engage with donors. By understanding the mechanics of payroll giving and implementing effective strategies, nonprofits can enhance their fundraising efforts and build lasting relationships with supporters. For more information on payroll giving and how to implement it effectively, explore the additional resources and guides below:

Maximize Your Payroll Giving Potential with Double the Donation

Ready to transform your nonprofit’s approach to payroll giving? Double the Donation’s Payroll Giving Module is your key to unlocking a world of recurring support and corporate giving opportunities. With our comprehensive tools, you can effortlessly identify eligible donors, integrate a user-friendly plugin on your website, and access a wealth of resources to enhance your fundraising strategies.

Don’t miss out on the chance to drive more support and turn employment data into a goldmine of revenue opportunities. Get a demo now to learn how Double the Donation can complete your workplace giving strategy and help you capitalize on payroll giving.

Take this payroll giving FAQ further: Get a demo of Double the Donation.

Is an Employer Append Right for Your Nonprofit How to Know

Is an Employer Append Right for Your Nonprofit? How to Know

If your donor database is missing key employment information, you might be wondering: Is an employer append right for your nonprofit?

Employer appends, or the process of enhancing donor records by filling in employment data, can unlock new opportunities for improved workplace giving efforts, better segmentation, and deepened corporate partnerships. But like any data investment, it’s important to weigh the benefits against your organization’s readiness and goals.

In this post, we’ll walk through the pros, cons, and key inquiries that can help you decide whether this strategy is a smart next step for your fundraising efforts.

Specifically, we invite you to ask yourself (or your team) the following questions:

If you answered “yes” to most (or all) of the above, an employer append might be a strategic next step. Now, let’s take a deeper dive into each key question.

Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a high volume of individual gifts.

Do you receive a high volume of individual gifts?

YES: One of the clearest indicators that an employer append might be a wise investment is the volume of individual donations your organization receives. If a significant portion of your fundraising comes from individual donors—especially in the form of small to mid-sized gifts—you likely have untapped potential for employer matching and corporate engagement.

Why does volume matter? Because even if just 20–30% of your individual donors are eligible for matching gifts through their employers, that could represent thousands of dollars in additional revenue you’re currently missing.


NO: By contrast, if your funding is primarily made up of grants, major gifts, or government contracts, an employer append may not deliver the same return. In those cases, employment data may be less relevant to your core fundraising strategy.

So, if you’re regularly processing hundreds or thousands of individual gifts each year, it might be worth it to consider an append. In other words, the higher your individual donor volume, the stronger the case for appending employer data.


Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a lot of missing employment data.

Are you missing employment information in your database?

YES: Before you can take advantage of matching gifts or other workplace giving campaigns, you need one essential piece of data: where your supporters work. If your CRM is filled with blank employer fields, that’s a clear sign that an employer append could be beneficial.

Appending employer data helps fill these gaps efficiently, especially for organizations with a large donor base and limited staff capacity. Even if only a portion of your records can be matched, it’s often enough to uncover significant corporate giving potential and segment communications more effectively.


NO: On the other hand, perhaps you collect employer information consistently, whether through your donation forms, volunteer registrations, follow-up emails, or other supporter onboarding efforts⁠—and don’t have many gaps in your donor base. In that case, you may already have a strong foundation in place.

In other words, if the employer field in your database is mostly complete and kept up to date, an employer append may not deliver as much added value. If so, your resources might be better spent on activating the employer data you already have through targeted matching gift outreach or broader workplace giving campaigns.


Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have a considerable volunteer base.

Does your organization have many volunteers?

YES: Volunteers often give more than just their time—they can also open the door to valuable funding opportunities, especially if you know where they work. If your organization relies heavily on volunteer support but lacks employment information for those individuals, you could be missing out on corporate volunteer grants and Volunteer Time Off (VTO) programs.

After all, many companies offer financial donations in recognition of their employees’ volunteer hours. Others provide paid VTO, encouraging employees to give back during work hours at approved nonprofit partners. But you can’t take advantage of these programs if you don’t know where your volunteers are employed.

An employer append can help fill in those missing details. Plus, it allows you to follow up with volunteers about corporate giving opportunities tied to their time. Even if only a portion of volunteers qualify, the combined value of grants and engagement can make a meaningful impact. If volunteers are a core part of your community, enhancing your data with employer information is a strategic next step.


NO: If your organization doesn’t rely heavily on volunteers—or volunteer engagement makes up a very small portion of your operations—then an employer append for volunteer records may not deliver significant value. In this case, your time and resources might be better spent optimizing donor data or focusing on other segments of your supporter base, such as recurring givers or event participants.

However, if volunteer involvement grows, revisiting this opportunity could unlock new sources of funding and corporate engagement in the future.


Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have the resources to prioritize workplace giving.

Is your team ready to prioritize workplace giving?

YES: If your team already sees workplace giving as a strategic priority, an employer append can significantly enhance your efforts. However, adding employment data to your records is only valuable if your team has the resources to act on it. That means following up on workplace giving opportunities, running targeted campaigns, and having someone focused on corporate outreach or stewardship.

When workplace giving is embraced organization-wide, you unlock greater ROI and longer-lasting corporate partnerships. If your team is aligned, resourced, and ready to collaborate around workplace giving, an employer append can serve as the catalyst for smarter outreach and greater impact.


NO: If workplace giving hasn’t yet become a focus—or your team lacks the time, tech, or clarity to act on employer data—it may be worth holding off on an employer append until you’re better prepared. Without a clear plan to integrate employment data into your campaigns, stewardship efforts, or corporate outreach, the data may go unused and offer limited returns on your investment.

Instead, consider starting small. Develop a workplace giving strategy, assign ownership of workplace giving-related tasks, and ensure your team is equipped with program knowledge. Keep in mind that prioritizing workplace giving doesn’t need to be difficult, either, especially when your team is equipped with the right tools, as many teams are already stretched thin. Once you’re aligned on prioritizing workplace giving, you’ll be in a stronger position to turn employer data into meaningful results. At that point, an employer append can be a high-impact next step.


Is an employer append right for your nonprofit? Consider whether you have the right tech in place to support one.

Do you have the right tools in place to support your efforts?

YES: If your organization already has strong tech infrastructure, like a modern CRM, mobile-friendly donation forms, and a workplace giving automation platform, you’re in a great position to act on the insights gained from an employer append. These tools allow you to leverage employer data, uncover employee giving eligibility, and send targeted follow-ups based on employment data.

Beyond basic functionality, think about how your tools help connect supporters to their next steps. Is your matching gift tool connected to your giving forms and CRM to enable targeted outreach? Is your corporate volunteering solution integrated with your VMS to provide seamless information and tailored program instructions?

If your systems support those experiences, you’re well-positioned to maximize the value of appended data and drive meaningful action.


NO: If your organization is still working with outdated systems, manual spreadsheets, or donation forms that don’t support employer-related functionality, an employer append might not yield strong results—at least not yet.

Without the right tools to store, track, and act on employment data, much of that insight may go unused. In this case, focus first on upgrading your tech stack. Prioritize a donor management system that allows for custom fields and segmentation. Plus, explore integrations that support matching gifts and workplace giving platforms.

When your tools are ready to handle and act on employer data, you’ll be able to extract real value from an append, boosting engagement, unlocking corporate funding, and streamlining supporter journeys.


Wrapping up & additional employer append resources

Employer appends are a powerful tool for nonprofits looking to deepen donor insights and tap into underutilized corporate giving opportunities. But they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Evaluate your data quality, fundraising strategy, and capacity to act on new information and make a clear, informed decision about whether it’s the right fit.

If you’ve answered “yes” to many of the readiness questions shared above, your organization may be well-positioned to benefit from this next-level data enhancement.

Interested in learning more about employer appends and how your organization can benefit from them? Check out the additional recommended resources below:

How Employer Appending Completes Your Workplace Giving Donor Profiles

How Employer Appending Completes Your Workplace Giving Donor Profiles

When it comes to equipping your team with enhanced workplace giving donor profiles, accurate and complete donor data isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. One of the most overlooked yet powerful pieces of information in your donor database is employer data. After all, knowing where your supporters work can unlock corporate matching gifts, boost campaign targeting, and significantly increase giving potential.

But what happens when this information is missing? That’s where employer appending comes in. This process helps nonprofits fill in the blanks, matching donors with their employers to build more complete, actionable profiles.

In this post, we’ll explore how employer appending works and why it’s a game-changer for enhancing your workplace giving strategy. We’ll cover:

Accurate employer data can be the missing link between a good fundraising program and a great one. In the sections ahead, we’ll show you how employer appending strengthens workplace giving donor profiles and empowers your team to make more informed, strategic outreach decisions.

Why do donor profiles matter for workplace giving?

Workplace giving programs thrive on strong engagement, and comprehensive donor profiles are what make that engagement possible. After all, a well-crafted donor profile is more than just a name and email address. It’s a collection of key data points that help your organization understand who your supporters are, how they prefer to give, and even what engagement opportunities are available to them. This information is especially critical when it comes to unlocking the full potential of workplace giving.

Why? One of the most valuable—but often missing—data points in a donor profile is an individual’s employer. And without it, you may be leaving thousands of dollars in matching gifts or volunteer grants unclaimed. However, simply knowing where a donor works allows you to identify their eligibility for corporate giving programs, tailor outreach messages, and segment communications based on employer partnerships or matching opportunities.

Use our appends services to complete your workplace giving donor profiles.

In short, complete and accurate workplace giving donor profiles enable your team to:

  • Identify workplace giving opportunities like matching gifts, volunteer grants, and payroll giving programs more efficiently
  • Increase participation rates by targeting eligible supporters with tailored engagement information
  • Strengthen corporate relationships by demonstrating shared support and rallying donors to advocate on your behalf
  • Enhance personalization in your appeals and stewardship efforts, demonstrating a deep knowledge of your supporter base

The more you know about your donors—including their employing companies—the more strategic and successful your workplace giving campaigns will be. That’s why maintaining complete profiles isn’t just helpful; it’s mission-critical.

How does appending employer data help?

Appending employer data is a strategic way to strengthen your donor database by filling in one of its most valuable gaps: where your supporters work. This process utilizes extensive third-party data sources to match your donors with their likely employers, based on identifying details such as name, email, or postal address.

The result? Richer, more actionable workplace giving donor profiles that drive greater fundraising impact.

Here’s how employer appending specifically helps your nonprofit:

  • It Uncovers Employee Giving Opportunities: Many companies offer employee giving programs, but if you don’t know where your donors work, you can’t alert them to these opportunities. Appending employer data allows you to proactively identify eligible donors and guide them through the participation process.
  • It Improves Campaign Segmentation and Personalization: With employer data on hand, you can tailor your messaging to resonate with specific workplace audiences or corporate partners. For example, consider sending targeted emails to employees of a company running a giving campaign or creating custom donation appeals aligned with that employer’s CSR priorities.
  • It Fills Data Gaps and Keeps Records Current: Donor records can become outdated quickly, especially if employment changes aren’t captured regularly. Appending services help refresh your data, ensuring your team has the most accurate and complete information to work with.
  • It Strengthens Corporate Partnership Opportunities: When you know which companies your donors work for, you gain insight into potential corporate sponsors or partners. This data can help you identify shared connections and demonstrate employee engagement when approaching companies for in-kind donations, sponsorships, grants, or expanded giving initiatives.

In short, employer appending transforms donor records from passive assets into strategic fundraising tools. By providing you with the employer-focused insights you need, it powers more innovative outreach, better workplace giving outcomes, and stronger donor relationships.

Getting started with employer appends for workplace giving

Employer appending can open new doors for workplace giving. Still, like any data-driven initiative, it works best with thoughtful preparation and execution. The process is relatively straightforward, but taking the proper steps up front will ensure you get the most value out of your appended data.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help your nonprofit get started the right way.

Usig appends to complete your workplace giving donor profiles.

1. Assess the Quality of Your Existing Data

Before you begin the appending process, take time to review and clean your current donor database. After all, the success of an employer append depends heavily on the quality of the data you provide. If your records contain outdated contact information, misspellings, duplicate entries, or inconsistent formats, your match rate will likely suffer.

Key actions to take at this step include:

  • Removing duplicate records.
  • Standardizing naming conventions (e.g., using full names instead of initials).
  • Verifying email addresses and mailing addresses.
  • Filling in missing fields where possible.

Well-organized donor information not only improves your append results but also helps downstream fundraising and communications efforts. It’s great to start the process with fresh, clean data in order to drive the best results overall.

2. Choose a Trusted Data Append Provider

As it comes to data appending, selecting the right partner for your efforts is crucial. This enables you to avoid common employer appending mistakes and maximize the accuracy, relevance, and long-term value of your workplace giving donor profiles.

For the best results, a reliable append service should use verified and frequently updated employment databases, offer transparent match methodologies, and ensure overall data accuracy and integrity.

What to look for:

  • Experience working with nonprofits and schools.
  • High match rates and data accuracy guarantees.
  • Clear pricing structure—such as flat fee vs. per-match pricing.
  • Strong security and confidentiality policies.
  • Detailed workplace giving eligibility insights and next steps.

When selecting the right employer appends service, keep in mind that the more actionable the information they provide, the more you’ll be able to do with it for your cause.

3. Define Your Goals and Use Cases

Before diving into the appending process, be sure to clarify why you want to append employer data. The more specific your goals, the easier it will be to measure success and apply the new data effectively.

Common use cases include:

  • Identifying and targeting donors eligible for corporate matching gifts.
  • Uncovering volunteers who qualify for corporate volunteer incentives.
  • Triggering communications to employees of specific companies.
  • Discovering potential corporate sponsorship or grant opportunities.

All in all, realizing your goals will also help you prioritize which data fields matter most (company name, job title, industry, location, workplace giving eligibility, etc.), allowing you to adjust your appends process accordingly.

4. Upload and Append Your Donor Records

At this point in the process, it’s time to submit your file to your selected appends provider. Most services accept CSV or Excel files and require only a few basic fields—commonly donor name, email, mailing address, or phone number—for matching purposes.

Here are some tips for a smoother upload:

  • Include as many identifiers as possible to increase the accuracy of matches.
  • Make sure your data is formatted according to the provider’s guidelines.
  • Label fields clearly (e.g., “First Name,” “Last Name,” “Email Address,” etc.).

Once you upload your data file, you’ve done your part! While turnaround times can vary, most providers will return results within a few days to a week.

5. Integrate and Act on the Data

Once your results come back, don’t let the data sit unused. Look for ways to use the appended employer information alongside your workplace giving platform—like Double the Donation—to identify matching gift opportunities, trigger outreach, or prioritize volunteer grant follow-up. The goal is to make the data actionable, fueling segmentation, outreach, and campaigns tied to employer-based giving.

Examples of how to use appended data:

  • Send a custom email to donors at companies that offer matching gifts, linking them to their employer’s submission form.
  • Create segmented content for existing volunteers who work at companies with volunteer incentive programs, encouraging them to tap into their workplace benefits.
  • Organize a payroll giving drive, where you encourage eligible employees to enroll in their companies’ payroll giving programs on your behalf.
  • Encourage a supporter who works at a company with an in-kind donation or grant program to advocate for your organization as a potential recipient.
  • At the very least, make sure your team understands how to use the new data and update relevant workflows accordingly.

6. Keep It Fresh

Employment data changes frequently—people change jobs, companies merge, and positions shift. To maintain accuracy, plan to run employer appends on a regular basis (every 6 to 12 months is typical).

Check out these tips for ongoing data hygiene:

  • Schedule regular audits and data refreshes.
  • Encourage supporters to update their employment info on donation forms, volunteer registrations, or email follow-ups.
  • Track employer engagement metrics to inform future corporate outreach.

Keeping your workplace giving donor profiles up to date ensures that your campaigns remain relevant and your workplace giving outreach is as effective as possible.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to building a more powerful, data-enriched fundraising program. With stronger employer insights, your team can unlock new corporate giving opportunities, personalize workplace giving outreach, and ultimately raise more for your mission.


Wrapping up & additional workplace giving appends resources

A strong workplace giving program starts with strong donor data. Luckily, employer appending offers nonprofits a smart, efficient way to enrich donor profiles, uncover new workplace giving opportunities, and create increasingly personalized outreach. By simply identifying where your donors work, you can gain valuable insights that fuel deeper engagement and facilitate fundraising success.

If you’re looking to maximize your workplace giving efforts, employer appending is a strategic step you can’t afford to skip. Now is the time to take a closer look at your donor records—and fill in the missing pieces that could make all the difference.

Interested in learning more about employer appends and their impact on workplace giving? Check out the additional resources below:

Steps to Market Workplace Giving on Your Nonprofit Website

5 Steps to Market Workplace Giving on Your Nonprofit Website

Workplace giving is one of the most overlooked revenue opportunities in nonprofit fundraising—but it doesn’t have to be. Every year, billions of dollars in corporate funds go unclaimed simply because eligible donors are unaware that their employers offer these programs. The good news? Your nonprofit website is one of the most effective tools you have to market workplace giving and help close that gap.

By strategically promoting workplace giving online, you can raise awareness, educate supporters, and make it easy for them to multiply the impact of their donations. Whether you’re new to workplace giving or looking to increase participation, these five steps will show you how to turn your website into a powerful driver of matched gifts, volunteer grants, and payroll giving support:

Marketing workplace giving on a nonprofit website is essential for maximizing contributions and fostering a culture of philanthropy. By effectively communicating the opportunities for workplace giving, organizations can engage supporters and encourage them to participate in these valuable programs.

Let’s get started with our first marketing tip!

Step #1: Add workplace giving to your ‘Ways to Give’ page.

The ‘Ways to Give’ page is often one of the most visited sections of a nonprofit’s website. This makes it a prime location to introduce workplace giving options. By including a dedicated section for workplace or employee giving, organizations can highlight the various ways employees can contribute through their employing companies.

In this section, it’s great to provide a brief overview of what workplace giving entails. This could include information about matching gifts, payroll deductions, and volunteer incentives. Clear and concise language will help potential donors understand how they can participate and the impact their contributions can make.

This page from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation puts those elements into action with its Ways to Give page, demonstrating the various ways employees and companies can get involved with their efforts:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Additionally, consider using engaging visuals, such as infographics or icons, to illustrate the benefits of workplace giving. This can help capture the attention of visitors and encourage them to explore further.

Step #2: Establish a comprehensive Workplace Giving page on your website.

A mention on your ‘Ways to Give’ page is great⁠—but it’s just the start of an effective promotional strategy. Going a step further, a dedicated Workplace Giving page should serve as a central hub for all information related to workplace giving initiatives. This page will provide detailed explanations of the various programs available, including their operation and the benefits they offer to both employees and nonprofits.

Implementing a section that outlines the different ways employees can contribute—such as through payroll deductions, matching gifts, or volunteer hours—can empower them to choose the method that best suits their preferences and capabilities.

Here’s an example from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, whose Workplace Giving page references key programs such as payroll deductions, matching gifts, volunteer incentives, and more:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Here are a few other best practices to consider as you build this page:

  • Highlight success stories. For the best results, feature testimonials from donors who have participated in workplace giving programs. Personal stories can resonate with potential contributors and motivate them to get involved. Highlighting the impact of these contributions can also reinforce the importance of workplace giving, as demonstrated in this testimonial blog post from Lehigh University.
  • Make the page easily navigable. Ensure that this page is easy to navigate. Use headings, bullet points, and clear calls to action to guide visitors through the information. Consider adding an FAQ section (like this one from SIL Global) to address common questions and concerns, which can further enhance the user experience.
  • Utilize visuals. Visual aids (like the ones on Save the Children’s Workplace Giving page) can help simplify complex information and make this resource more engaging for visitors. For example, showcasing statistics about the funds raised or the number of lives impacted by the contributions can provide a compelling narrative that encourages participation.

It may also be beneficial to feature stories of the specific projects and activities that benefit from these giving programs. By showcasing missions, goals, and outcomes funded through workplace contributions, you create a deeper connection between the donors and the causes they support. This not only fosters a sense of community but also emphasizes the tangible difference that each contribution makes.

Step #3: Build dedicated pages for Matching Gifts, Volunteer Incentives, and Payroll Giving.

To effectively communicate the specifics of workplace giving, creating dedicated pages for Matching Gifts, Volunteer Incentives, and Payroll Giving is essential. Each resource should focus on one aspect of workplace giving, providing in-depth information and relevant resources, and allowing supporters to focus on the programs that are of most interest to them. Not to mention, this enables teams to market programs individually as well, leading supporters to the most relevant information on a really targeted page on their website.

Top tip: Clone your established Workplace Giving page within your CMS or website builder to create three separate duplicates and get a head start! From there, you can begin editing to adjust the language and content on your Match Page, Volunteers Page, and Payroll Giving Page accordingly.

3.1 Matching Gifts

Many employers offer matching gift programs, where they match donations made by their employees. A dedicated Matching Gifts page should explain how these programs work and why they are beneficial for both the donor and the nonprofit.

Include instructions on how donors can check if their employer participates (such as using an embedded database resource or reaching out to their HR lead). Furthermore, providing links to matching gift forms or resources can streamline the process for donors, making it easier for them to take action.

Take a look at UGA’s matching gift page below, and see how the school really simplifies the process for getting involved with a step-by-step overview and ingrained matching gift plugin tool:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

For the best results, you’ll want to provide your organization’s tax ID number and mailing address on this page, too, as it often assists supporters with the match request process.

3.2 Volunteer Incentives

Volunteer incentive programs encourage employees to volunteer their time by providing incentives such as volunteer grants or donations for every hour volunteered (or offering paid time off specifically for volunteering). Your Volunteer Incentives page should detail how these programs work and the benefits they offer to both volunteers and the nonprofit.

For the best results, provide information on how volunteers can apply for these grants on your behalf (such as using Double the Donation’s volunteer-specific search plugin), making it easy for individuals to understand the process.

Here’s how Pan-Mass Challenge is promoting corporate volunteer incentives on its main volunteer page, making it quick and easy for supporters to check their eligibility for volunteer grants, VTO, and more:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

You might also consider adding a section that outlines the types of volunteer opportunities available. For the best results, you’ll want to include both short-term (hours-long projects) as well as longer-term commitments (such as weekly recurring initiatives) to cater to different interests and schedules. This can help potential volunteers find the right fit for their skills and availability, ultimately increasing participation rates.

3.3 Payroll Giving

Finally, your Payroll Giving page should explain how employees can set up automatic deductions from their paychecks to donate to the nonprofit. This method of giving is convenient for donors and can lead to consistent contributions over time.

Include details on how to enroll in payroll giving programs, as well as the benefits of making donations through payroll deductions. With Double the Donation’s payroll giving plugin tool, you can even provide prospective supporters with a direct access link to their company’s payroll giving platform to get signed up!

Check out how St. Jude Children’s Hospital promotes the payroll giving opportunity below, providing step-by-step instructions on how an individual can get involved⁠, even if their company doesn’t currently offer a program!

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Taking it a few steps further, consider including an FAQ section that addresses common questions about payroll giving, such as how to change donation amounts or what happens if an employee changes jobs. This can help alleviate any concerns potential donors may have and encourage them to take the first step toward making a difference through payroll giving.

Market workplace giving on your website with our corporate giving database.

Step #4: Integrate workplace giving information with your donation form.

Integrating workplace giving information directly into the donation form can significantly enhance an individual’s likelihood of participation. When donors are filling out their information to make a contribution, they should naturally be presented with options related to workplace giving.

Consider adding a simple, optional form field to collect employment data as donors give. When paired with a bit of background regarding the ask (“Enter your employer’s name to uncover workplace giving eligibility”), it’s never been easier to collect the information you need.

Here’s how 50 Mile March promotes matching gifts within the donation form itself, asking donors to search for their employer to discover eligibility for the programs:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

From there, Double the Donation’s giving form integrations also make it easy to place a reminder about workplace giving opportunities on your confirmation screen, allowing donors to access a quick reminder immediately after they submit their gifts.

Check out how Blue Faery markets the opportunity from their donation confirmation screen, too, with an easily accessible company search tool available to drive next steps immediately after giving:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

Step #5: Integrate workplace giving information with your volunteer sign-ups.

Just as with the donation form, integrating workplace giving information into volunteer sign-ups can enhance engagement and participation. When potential volunteers express interest in supporting the organization (such as by signing up or registering for a shift), they should also be made aware of workplace giving options⁠—specifically corporate volunteer incentives.

Here’s how one organization collects employment information from the volunteer registration page, making it easy for supporters to provide an essential piece of the workplace giving engagement puzzle:

Market workplace giving on your nonprofit website like this example

When you collect employment information within sign-ups, you have the ability to provide tailored email follow-ups that inform supporters of their eligibility for workplace volunteer benefits and encourage them to get involved, too.


Wrapping up & additional workplace giving resources

Workplace giving programs are a win-win for donors and nonprofits—supporters amplify their impact, and you unlock funding that’s already waiting to be claimed. By implementing the steps outlined above, your website becomes more than an information hub—it becomes a conversion tool that drives awareness, participation, and revenue.

Don’t leave money on the table. Start with a few simple website updates and grow from there. Over time, consistent visibility and messaging around workplace giving will help you educate donors, segment your audience, and build a more sustainable fundraising pipeline.

Interested in learning more about how to market workplace giving programs for your organization? Check out these additional recommended resources:

Use our appends services to complete your workplace giving donor profiles.