Page 20 – Double the Donation

The Power of Email Domain Screening For Matching Gifts

May 10, 2024/in Learning Center, About Double the Donation, Marketing Strategies /by Adam Weinger

Find out how email domain screening can bring your organization’s matching gift fundraising to new heights.

Matching gifts supply a powerful revenue source that allows nonprofits to amplify individual generosity by leveraging corporate philanthropy. These programs, through which corporations match employees’ donations to charitable causes, hold immense potential for bolstering fundraising and driving growth.

However, despite the widespread availability of matching gift programs, nonprofits often struggle to fully capitalize on this funding channel. Many supporters remain unaware of the opportunity, and identifying eligible donors on your own can be a time-consuming process.

Fortunately, there are a few ways organizations can uncover match-eligible gifts in their donor base with varying levels of ease. In this guide, we’re going to focus on one in particular: email domain screening.

Table of Contents

What is Email Domain Screening?
The Email Domain Screening Process
How Email Domain Screening Uncovers More Matching Gifts
Other Ways to Identify Matching Gift Opportunities

By reading this guide, you’re already on your way to identifying and collecting more matching gifts. Now, let’s dive in to explore the role that email domain screening can play in this endeavor.

What is Email Domain Screening?

As donors give online, they’re generally asked to provide an email address within an organization’s donation form. While some choose to share a personal email (think: addresses ending in gmail.com, yahoo.com, outlook.com, etc.), others opt to use their business emails (e.g., name@company.com) to make their gifts.

This can be a great way to uncover match-eligible gifts using an email domain screening process.

So, how does it work? When it comes to uncovering matching gifts, email domain screening involves an organization (or a dedicated software solution it enlists) checking for donations made using corporate email addresses.

Domain screening streamlines the identification of eligible donors using information your supporters are already sharing. In the end, it simplifies the matching gift process for donors and maximizes the funds your organization collects through the programs.

The Email Domain Screening Process

The better your team understands the email domain screening process, the more equipped you’ll be to boost your organization’s matching gift revenue. Take a look at the following walkthrough to learn more about each stage involved.

Step #1: Data Collection
As donors give online, the software collects their personal information, including email addresses and other contact information. The system also captures employment-related data, such as the donor’s employer name, if provided, and the associated email domain.
Step #2: Domain Extraction
The software extracts the domain part of each donor’s email address. For example, if a donor makes a gift using the email john.doe@homedepot.com, the extracted domain would be homedepot.com. From there, the organization can establish that the individual (likely) works for the Home Depot, and update its records accordingly.
Step #3: Database Matching
From there, transaction records for individuals who do provide corporate emails are scanned against known matching gift suppliers. This is generally done using a matching gift database (complete with guidelines and documentation for thousands of participating companies) or a list of top companies to uncover vital employment and eligibility insights.

Then, donors whose email domains match with participating companies are identified as potentially eligible for matching gifts!
Step #4: Retrieval of Company Info
For each eligible donor, the organization or software retrieves employer-specific matching gift information. These insights generally include minimum and maximum donation amounts, match ratios, submission deadlines, and direct links to online request forms based on the company extracted from the individual’s corporate email address.
Step #5: Personalized Donor Outreach
Once matching gift information is retrieved, the organization or software solution generates targeted communications for eligible donors. (Hint: if you’re looking to save staff time, an automation tool is a must-have!)

These communications should inform donors about their eligibility for matching gifts and provide guidance on how the recipient can initiate the matching gift process. Whenever possible, this should include instructions on how to submit a match, any relevant forms or links, and additional documentation required by the employer.

Email domain screening process

How Email Domain Screening Uncovers More Matching Gifts

Email domain screening can significantly benefit an organization’s matching gift strategy. In fact, vetting donations made using a corporate email address can result in tons of new donors being flagged as matching gift eligible. All in all, that leads to more than a 1% increase in total revenue for nonprofits each year.

Let’s see what this means by the numbers for a few types of organizations:

Small nonprofits ⁠raising $100,000–$250,000 a year ⁠tend to see a return of $1,000 to $2,500 from email domain screening.
Medium nonprofits ⁠raising between $250,000 and $1 million a year ⁠⁠tend to see a return of $2,500 to $10,000 from email domain screening.
Large nonprofits ⁠raising over $1 million a year ⁠tend to see a return of $10,000 or more from email domain screening.

But the benefits don’t end there, either! In addition to direct financial returns, email domain screening also empowers fundraisers to…

Learn more about the supporters in their networks while building out increasingly well-rounded donor profiles
Encourage individual donors to take advantage of available corporate matching gift opportunities
Implement tailored communications using employment insights gathered from corporate email addresses
Maximize fundraising performance by streamlining the matching gift identification process
Allocate resources more efficiently, freeing up staff time to focus on other valuable fundraising and mission-relevant activities
Identify some of their most valuable corporate partners with which they share key audiences

Email domain screening helps identify matching gifts

The best part is that, with the right matching gift software, conducting an email domain screening requires little to no added effort from a nonprofit’s fundraising team. By enlisting this strategy to uncover more match-eligible gifts, organizations like yours can amplify their impact and achieve their goals more effectively than ever before.

Other Ways to Identify Matching Gift Opportunities

So far, we’ve talked a lot about email domain screening in this guide⁠. And while it’s a sound strategy for organizations looking to give their matching gift efforts a boost, it’s certainly not the only way to determine donors’ eligibility.

On average, nonprofits report that between 5% and 7% of donors use corporate email domains when completing their initial gifts. So, what can you do to supplement domain screening and engage with the remaining portion of your supporter base?

Let’s quickly walk through some other leading ways nonprofits can uncover matching gifts from within their networks. Keep in mind that the more screening mechanisms you enlist, the greater the likelihood that you’ll capture every opportunity without letting matches fall astray.

Enlisting multiple identification methods allows fundraisers to identify up to 30% more match-eligible donors.

Source: https://doublethedonation.com/matching-gift-statistics/

The benefits of using email domain screening along with other identification methods

1. Embed a company search tool on your donation form.

Make it as easy as possible for donors to provide employment information directly as they give⁠—even if they opt not to use a corporate email address. When an individual makes a contribution through your online donation form, ensure they encounter a field where they can input the name of the company they work for. Even better would be an auto-completing search tool, such as the one powered by Double the Donation!

In addition to email domain screening, a company search tool can help identify matching gifts

(P.S. Our company database search tool integrates with nearly all leading donation platforms and CRMs, making it a seamless opportunity to connect the solutions.)

DIVE INTO THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE MATCHING GIFT DATABASE

2. Add a matching gift widget to your confirmation screen.

After donors complete their gifts, they’ll generally be directed to a confirmation page on your site. Here, they should be thanked for their gift and provided with recommended next steps. And when you incorporate a matching gift tool on your confirmation screen, donors will have yet another chance to supply employment data.

Such a widget allows each donor to quickly search for their employer’s matching gift program by typing in the business name. If a program from their employing company is found, the individual can be marked as match-eligible in real time and encouraged to complete a matching gift request on your behalf.

Besides email domain screening, your confirmation page is another great place to identify matching gifts

FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN IMPLEMENT MATCHING GIFTS IN THE DONATION PROCESS

3. Enlist email follow-up outreach.

Following a donor’s contribution, send a personalized follow-up email thanking them for their support and inviting them to provide their employment information if they haven’t already.

This email should also supply instructions on how donors can uncover their own eligibility⁠—such as by reaching out to their company’s HR department or CSR team.

After email domain screening, follow up with a tailored matching gift reminder

EXPLORE TIPS AND TRICKS FOR MARKETING MATCHING GIFTS IN EMAIL COMMUNICATIONS

4. Consider an employer append service.

Regardless of the methods you use to collect employment information and identify match-eligible gifts, you’re going to have some gaps in your donor records. And that’s where a data enhancement service⁠—specifically an employer append⁠—can come in handy.

All you need to do is partner with a data appends provider and supply the company with the information you have in your existing records. From there, the appending company conducts a variety of enrichment processes to augment each profile with fresh insights gleaned from a wide array of data sources⁠—including employment information and matching gift eligibility.

Besides email domain screening, a data append is another great way to identify matching gifts

SEE HOW YOU CAN APPEND EMPLOYER DATA TO YOUR DONOR RECORDS

5. Conduct a bulk matching gift screening.

If you already have accurate and up-to-date employment information for your donors, there’s another type of data enhancement service you can consider. That’s a bulk matching gift screening, where you provide an appends provider with your donors’ names, the companies they work for, and other data insights. Then, the appending company screens your donor profiles against its database of matching gift information and indicates each individual’s likely matching gift eligibility.

Besides email domain screening, a bulk match screening is another great way to identify matching gifts

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BULK MATCHING GIFT SCREENING SERVICES

Wrapping Up

Email domain screening offers nonprofits an invaluable opportunity to uncover more matching gifts and transform their fundraising endeavors. By utilizing this technology, organizations like yours can tap into the vast pool of matching gift opportunities provided by corporate employers.

In doing so, you’ll reap benefits like streamlined identification practices (driving operational efficiency), heightened donor engagement, and increased revenue for your mission.

Interested in learning more about matching gifts and other fundraising strategies? Check out these recommended resources:

Top 20+ Matching Gift Companies: Leaders in Corporate Giving. Explore this list of companies leading the way in corporate giving. Check out examples of generous matching gift employers and see if your donors work for them!
Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Marketing Matching Gifts. Master the art of marketing matching gifts with the complete downloadable guide. Learn proven strategies and tips for promoting matching gift programs to your donors effectively.
Matching Gift Process | A Complete Step-by-Step Guide. Understanding the ins and outs of matching gifts is essential for guiding donors through the process. Walk through each step to learn what’s required of you and your supporters.

Nonprofit Data Collection: How to Gather The Right Insights

May 9, 2024/in Donor communications, Learning Center /by Adam Weinger

From local communities to global movements, effective nonprofit data collection is a silent hero. Collecting nonprofit data involves systematically gathering, analyzing, and using information to track performance, enhance decision-making, and amplify impact. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about understanding your organization’s needs, measuring progress, and strategizing to meet local and global challenges.

Collecting the right data helps organizations like yours understand what works so you can do more good in the world. That way, you can use your resources more efficiently to reach the right supporters and beneficiaries.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll share how nonprofits can collect data effectively and explain how that data can serve as the fuel for transformative action. Here’s what we’ll cover:

How Do Nonprofits Collect Data?
The Importance of Efficient Nonprofit Data Collection
Key Types of Nonprofit Data to Collect
Tips to Improve Your Nonprofit Data Collection

With the right insights, your nonprofit can make a greater impact on the world, whether you’re focused on improving your corporate partnerships, marketing segmentation, finance management, or programs. Let’s dive in!

How Do Nonprofits Collect Data?

Nonprofits can collect data through various methods, depending on their goals, resources, and the nature of the data they need. Here are some common methods and types of data collection software for nonprofits:

Forms: Your nonprofit can use donation forms, volunteer applications, event registrations, and intake forms to gather supporter and beneficiary information. Each form is designed to collect data about different types of recipients. For example, donation forms collect donor data like contact information, donation amount, payment information, employer information for matching purposes, and gift designations.
Surveys and Questionnaires: Nonprofits can use surveys to gather feedback from beneficiaries, donors, and the general public. These questionnaires can be distributed online, via email, social media, or in person.
Marketing Platforms: Nonprofits can view metrics within their digital marketing platforms to understand audience behaviors and tailor messaging. For example, Google Analytics provides information about website visitors, including how much time they spend on specific pages, what content they engage with, and what channels drive them to the site. Meanwhile, email marketing tools provide insights on open rates, click-through rates, and conversions which explain which content and calls to action resonate.
Financial Management Software: Specialized software helps manage and report on financial data like revenue and expenses, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
CRM Systems: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems like Salesforce for Nonprofits, Bloomerang, and Blackbaud store all interactions with supporters and corporate partners, including communications, contact information, contributions, and feedback.

How you collect data depends on which metrics you want to focus on to ensure long-term sustainability and increase impact. Decide on which data will best support your organization and put systems in place to gather it.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Nonprofit Data

There are two categories of nonprofit data you can collect:

Quantitative data refers to information that can be quantified, meaning it can be measured and expressed numerically. Examples include the number of volunteers who participated in an event, the amount of money raised from a fundraiser, the number of website visits, and the number of acquired donors in a certain time frame.
Qualitative data is descriptive data that cannot be assigned a numerical value. This includes information like donor names, anecdotal survey responses, and preferred contact methods.

By leveraging both types of data, nonprofits can gain a more comprehensive understanding of their impact, tailor their services more effectively, and better communicate their successes and challenges to stakeholders.

The Importance of Efficient Nonprofit Data Collection

Nonprofits are expected to compete for time, attention, and money with companies and peer organizations. In fact, the average person sees roughly 5,000 ads per day. Standing out requires speaking to the right people at the right time with the right message. Nonprofit data makes that possible!

Here’s a rundown of the most important benefits of nonprofit data:

Measure impact and see which programs are working
Better understand how to effectively allocate resources (e.g., time, money, and personnel)
Make informed decisions, such as planning new programs based on community needs assessments
Demonstrate accountability by sharing how funds are being used
Deliver timely appeals based on past engagement data to inspire action, raise funds, and cultivate relationships
Send powerful messages at the optimal time by segmenting communications based on interests and preferred communication channels
Communicate program impact and challenges to stakeholders

For an example of nonprofit data in action, imagine an organization dedicated to providing clean water across continents. By collecting data on water quality, community health, and usage patterns, the nonprofit can tailor its initiatives to each region’s specific needs, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and that the solutions are sustainable.

By processing and analyzing data, nonprofits can create targeted interventions, monitor outcomes, and adapt strategies—activities that are crucial in a world where resources are limited and stakes are high.

Key Types of Nonprofit Data to Collect

There are endless types of nonprofit data you can collect, but some are much more helpful than others. For example, you don’t need to know which elements a user hovered over but didn’t click on your website. Unless this metric directly tied to improving user experience, collecting this nonprofit data will only bog down your software.

Let’s explore six types of nonprofit data you should collect.

Supporter Data

Data can tell you a lot about your donors, volunteers, and corporate sponsors. The more you know about your supporters, the better you can tailor your appeals to resonate with them.

Some of the most helpful supporter data to collect includes the following:

Full name, including preferred name and title
Geographic location to send relevant appeals, such as nearby events
Date of birth so you can segment communications based on age and reach out on supporters’ birthdays
Contact information, including email addresses, phone numbers, and postal mailing addresses
Employment details to locate corporate giving opportunities and estimate giving potential
Education, including areas of study to reveal causes they’re likely to support
Giving history such as donation amounts, frequency, gift designations, attended events, and volunteer involvement
Hobbies and interests to understand what opportunities inspire donors
Charitable involvement with other organizations, such as board service or donations

Here’s a sample donor profile to give you an idea of what this data might look like:

Sufficient nonprofit data collection practices will enable you to easily segment your supporters into groups to improve your outreach. The good news is that if some of this information is missing or outdated, data appending services can fill it in. We’ll explore this type of nonprofit data collection service later.

Marketing Data

You know who your supporters are, but do you know how to communicate with them? Collecting marketing data will help you understand what messages resonate and encourage your audience to get involved.

Key marketing data to collect includes:

Website traffic: Pay attention to how many people visit your site, how they get there, what pages they visit, and how long they stay. This information will help you optimize the user experience and set your website up to convert.
Social media engagement: Impressions, likes, shares, and comments tell you whether your social media posts are reaching your audience and encouraging engagement.
Email open and click rates: Are your subscribers opening your emails and clicking through to your site? These metrics let you know how effective your email marketing is. If your open rates are low, experiment with your subject lines and send emails under a real person’s name, like your fundraising director.
Advertising data: If your nonprofit advertises, look at keyword volume and competition. Getting Attention recommends choosing keywords with high search volume and low competition. For your ads themselves, nonprofit data like impressions, ad conversions, click-through rate (CTR), and cost per click (CPC) tell you how well your ads are performing and how much they’re costing you.

To collect this nonprofit data, audit your past marketing efforts and review what information your marketing software automatically collects. In turn, you can learn which platforms and messages drive supporter engagement to set future outreach up for success.

Campaign Data

Collecting campaign data will help evaluate your nonprofit’s effectiveness and better plan campaigns in the future. Important nonprofit campaign data to collect includes:

Donor and volunteer retention rates: Track how many donors or volunteers continue engaging with your organization over time. A donor or volunteer is considered “lapsed” if they haven’t given or volunteered within the past 12 months, but the length of time is up to your organization. High retention rates often indicate strong relationships and effective engagement strategies. Compare your nonprofit data with industry data to gauge success. For instance, Fundraising Report Card’s donor research indicates that the average donor retention rate is approximately 35%.
Event attendance: Measuring attendance at events helps your nonprofit gauge interest and engagement levels and assess the effectiveness of promotion strategies.
Campaign conversions: Monitor data on how many people took the desired action as a result of a campaign, such as donating, signing up to volunteer, or registering for an event. Also, pay attention to how many people your campaign converts into first-time supporters vs. recurring supporters.
Fundraising totals: Track the total funds raised per campaign to assess financial success and allocate your budget to future campaigns.

By systematically collecting campaign data, you can continuously improve your campaigns and invest in the most successful campaigns.

Financial Data

Nonprofits often operate on tight budgets, so keep a close eye on your finances by tracking:

Expenses: Monitor costs associated with delivering programs and running fundraising campaigns. Also, use your financial data collection software to monitor operational and capital costs like salaries, rent, utilities, major equipment, and buildings.
Revenue: Track your income via donations, grants, event fees, product sales, membership sales, and other revenue sources.
Cash-on-hand: This is the total amount of accessible money at any given time from checking accounts or on-premise cash reserves that aren’t reserved or invested. This data indicates how long your nonprofit can survive without donations or funding.

Tracking this information will ensure your nonprofit’s financial health, help meet regulatory requirements, make informed management decisions, and maintain the trust of donors, volunteers, and other key stakeholders.

Corporate Partnership Data

Strong corporate partnerships help expand your nonprofit’s initiatives. Considering these relationships need to be mutually beneficial, you should track data related to your partnerships, such as:

Key contacts: Track the names, positions, and contact details of the primary contacts at the company.
Agreement terms and duration: Monitor the specific terms of the partnership agreements like the objectives and responsibilities of each party so you can fulfill all obligations. Also, know the start and end dates of the agreement.
Renewal conditions: Ensure you know the criteria your nonprofit must meet to have the partnership renewed at the end of the contract’s term.
Financial contributions: Track donation amounts, dates, and in-kind contributions such as goods, services, or expertise provided by the partner.
Employee engagement: Monitor corporate employees’ involvement in your nonprofit’s activities, including volunteer hours, participation in events, or matching donations.
Impact metrics: Collect and share quantitative and qualitative data demonstrating the impact of the partnership on your nonprofit’s goals.

By collecting the right nonprofit data for your partnerships, you can maximize companies’ impact and demonstrate the value of these partnerships to your corporate sponsors. This data-driven approach not only helps maintain current partnerships but also attracts new corporate sponsors by showcasing the tangible benefits of collaborating.

Data From External Studies

Your nonprofit can better understand the market and improve its programs by leveraging data from external studies. Consider collecting data from the following sources:

Public records: Collect demographic, economic, health, and educational statistics from public records to tailor services and understand the needs of your community. For example, a childhood education organization might collect demographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau to identify low-income areas with limited educational resources.
Privately funded surveys: Incorporate data from market surveys, impact assessments, and stakeholder surveys to inform marketing strategies, evaluate program effectiveness, and gather feedback from key constituents.
Research publications: Use academic research, industry reports, and policy analysis to gain evidence-based insights, understand industry trends, and navigate the regulatory landscape effectively. For instance, a health-focused nonprofit can use academic research from a university study that identifies effective strategies for reducing diabetes.
Sector benchmarks: Use benchmarks to evaluate your organization’s performance related to peers. For instance, an animal welfare nonprofit might review annual benchmarking reports from a national animal protection agency to compare their animal adoption rates, recovery rates from medical treatment, and rehoming success with similar organizations.

Collecting data from external sources can cut down on the amount you spend conducting research. Just make sure you entrust reliable sources.

Tips to Improve Your Nonprofit Data Collection

Building an efficient nonprofit data collection strategy can be a large undertaking, but it will ultimately drive greater success for your organization. Here are some industry best practices to collect data ethically and efficiently.

Use Software That Integrates.

Chances are, your nonprofit uses software to run fundraisers, collect donations, manage volunteers, hold events, and oversee every aspect of your organization. In terms of nonprofit data collection, choosing systems that integrate can reduce the time and effort required to manage data across different platforms.

Integrated software ensures that nonprofit data is consistent and accurate, which minimizes errors that occur when manually transferring information between systems. Plus, it enables real-time data updates, giving all team members access to the latest information to make decisions.

For example, our matching gift software integrates with 100+ leading nonprofit software platforms, including fundraising tools, workplace giving platforms, CRMs, and more. That helps minimize nonprofit data inconsistencies from manual data entry, guaranteeing that donor information and matching gift opportunities are current and accurate across all systems.

Use Ethical Nonprofit Data Collection Practices.

When it comes to nonprofit data collection, you should always respect the rights and privacy of your supporters. Here’s how you can accomplish that:

Obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their data. This involves explaining why their data is being collected and how it will be used.
Leverage secure databases and software that enable encryption.
Collect only necessary data and avoid gathering irrelevant sensitive information.
Give participants the right to access their own data, request corrections to inaccurate data, and opt out of your nonprofit data collection processes.
Follow nonprofit regulations regarding data protection and privacy.
Require employees to enable two-factor authentication, use a secure password management system, and routinely update passwords for your nonprofit’s software.
Only give certain employees access to sensitive data.

Collecting data ethically will not only help you comply with legal standards, but it will also build trust among your supporters. Pay attention to standards and best practices specific to your industry. For example, nonprofits that handle protected health information (PHI) in the United States must adhere to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Routinely Clean Your Data.

As part of managing your nonprofit data, you’ll want to keep it clean. “Clean” data refers to data that’s not excessive, erroneous, inaccurate, outdated, mislabeled, or duplicated. The cleansing process helps maintain data hygiene and should be performed regularly, such as annually or bi-annually.

Some data collection software for nonprofits offers features like deduplication to make this process a breeze. Plus, data enhancement is always an option for updating or filling in missing information.

Imagine a nonprofit that continues to use community demographic data from ten years ago to design its youth education programs. Because the demographic profile (such as age distribution, income levels, and educational attainment) of the community can significantly change over the decade, relying on this outdated information could lead the nonprofit to offer programs that are no longer relevant or effective for the community’s current needs.

Next Steps for Your Nonprofit Data Collection

Ultimately, your nonprofit’s strength lies in its ability to make informed decisions that drive its mission forward. Effective data collection is the foundation of this strength, providing the insights needed to optimize resources, engage stakeholders, and measure the true impact of your work. As the sector continues to evolve, the organizations that prioritize data-driven decision-making will be the ones leading the charge toward a brighter future.

While you refine your nonprofit data collection processes, explore these resources to learn more:

Improving Your Donor Development Approach: Expert Tactics. Developing donor relationships hinges on your nonprofit data. Make sure you’re leveraging your data to grow supporter relationships.
Data Ethics and Privacy: Questions in Matching Gift Fundraising. Protecting donor data is essential for building trust and growing fundraising revenue. Follow the tips in this guide to ethically collect and protect data during the matching gift process.
Prospect Research: The Ultimate Guide for Nonprofits. Explore what types of data to collect during prospect research and how to use this information to find new supporters.

How to Craft a Heartfelt Gift Acknowledgment Letter

May 8, 2024/in Donor communications /by Adam Weinger

A swift thank you is all it takes for 34% of donors to give again. And beyond boosting retention, a gratuitous follow-up can help your nonprofit share its impact, adhere to compliance standards, and show donors the appreciation they deserve.

While your nonprofit may already have a donor recognition process in place, an important first step is to send a gift acknowledgment letter. Let’s explore why these letters are important and how your organization can craft one that’s both effective and heartfelt!

Gift Acknowledgement Letter FAQs

What is a gift acknowledgment letter?

A gift acknowledgment letter, also known as a donation acknowledgment letter, is a formal document sent by a nonprofit to donors to express gratitude for their contributions. This appreciation message also serves as a way for donors to claim tax exemptions and reap the financial benefit of giving to your cause.

Is a gift acknowledgment letter required?

The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) lays out specific guidelines for written acknowledgments for tax-deductible donations—meaning that gift acknowledgment letters are not only a best practice but are required in certain instances. Nonprofits are required to provide a written acknowledgment for any single donation of $250 or more, whether in cash or in-kind.

The acknowledgment should include certain details such as the amount of the donation, a description of any non-cash contributions, and a statement indicating whether the organization provided any goods or services in exchange for the donation.

Should gift acknowledgment letters be sent for matched gifts?

When donors make a contribution that’s matched by their employer, your nonprofit has two supporters to thank: the employee and the employer. Not only should you send a gift acknowledgment letter to the donor, detailing that their gift was matched, but you should also send a separate acknowledgment to their employer. This can open the door to a future partnership, or at the very least, ensure they continue matching contributions to your cause.

Donor appreciation is just one best practice to follow when working with matching gifts. For more tips, watch the following video:

Because matching gifts are such a highly engaging fundraiser, prompt follow-up is especially important to maintain the engagement.

How soon after donors give should it be sent?

While there is no hard and fast rule for the exact timeframe within which a gift acknowledgment letter should be sent, it’s generally recommended that it be sent as soon as possible. This way, donors can be confident that their gifts went through and have access to everything they need to claim a tax exemption.

What should be included in a gift acknowledgment letter?

A gift acknowledgment letter should include the following elements:

- Recipient’s information: Include the donor’s name in your salutation. This personal touch can help your organization establish strong connections with donors and help them feel valued.
- Statement of gratitude: Start with a warm and sincere expression of thanks. Make it clear that their support is valued and appreciated, and connect it back to your cause.
- Details of the donation: Specify the amount or nature of the donation (e.g., monetary contribution, in-kind donation, matched gift), as well as any restrictions or designations the donor may have specified.
- Tax information: If applicable, provide information about the organization’s tax-exempt status and confirm that the donation is tax-deductible. Include the organization’s Tax ID number (if in the U.S.) for the donor’s records.
- Impact of the donation: Briefly explain how the donor’s contribution will be used and the impact it will have on the organization’s mission or programs. This helps donors understand the importance of their support.
- Your organization’s name: Sign off with your organization’s name to indicate that this donation went toward your nonprofit’s cause. You can also sign the letter with the name of a staff member or a leader within the organization for an added personal touch.

If relevant, you may also invite the donor to further their involvement with your organization. Consider adding a sentence or two inviting the donor to an upcoming event or providing details about how they can continue receiving communications from your nonprofit.

How to Write a Gift Acknowledgment Letter

1. State the purpose of your letter

Start your gift acknowledgment letter with a confirmation of the donation. This introduces the recipient to the letter by reminding them of their gift. It should only take a sentence or two.

2. Make your letter visually engaging

Before you start crafting the content of your letter, determine how you’ll make it catch the recipient’s attention. After all, your gift acknowledgment letter is only beneficial if the recipient actually reads it!

Here are a few strategies to make your letter visually engaging:

Plan engaging formatting
Choose legible fonts
Use animations or images

To make this process easier, use a digital card creation service like eCardWidget. This solution allows you to customize premade templates or start from scratch with unique cards branded to your nonprofit. Then, you can send the card to donors via email.

Taking the online route for gift acknowledgment letters unlocks numerous opportunities to invigorate your cards with engaging content. You can include everything from fun animations to eye-catching images and reuse the cards in the future as needed.

3. Personalize your note

Personalizing a gift acknowledgment letter adds a special touch and shows your donors that you genuinely value their ongoing support. Use these best practices to personalize your letter:

Use the donor’s name: Address the donor by their name. Avoid generic salutations like “Dear Supporter” and instead use their actual name, such as “Dear [Donor’s Name].” This increases the likelihood of donors reading your letter and shows them that you recognize them for who they are and not just as another revenue source.
Reference the donation: In the letter, mention the specific donation amount or type (e.g., monetary donation, in-kind donation). This shows that you’ve taken the time to acknowledge their contribution individually.
Express genuine gratitude: Tailor your appreciation message to reflect the impact of the donor’s contribution. Instead of a generic thank-you, express gratitude for the specific ways their support will make a difference.
Share a personal story: If you have any personal anecdotes or connections with the donor, mention them in the letter. For example, if the donor has been a long-time supporter or if their donation aligns with a particular interest or passion, acknowledge that connection.
Highlight previous support: If the donor has supported your organization in the past, acknowledge their ongoing commitment and express gratitude for their continued support.

By personalizing your gift acknowledgment letters, you can show donors that their support is truly valued and strengthen the bond between them and your organization.

4. Explain the impact of the gift

Personalized outreach that highlights donor impact makes 41% of donors willing to give again. You can demonstrate the donor’s impact by including:

A detailed story about the work that was accomplished with the donor’s gift, incorporating quotes from beneficiaries and volunteers.
Statistics and data relevant to the project supported by the donation.
A summary of larger goals to show how the donation supports your nonprofit’s long-term plans.

Remember to keep the message donor-centric, highlighting the impact their gift will make. The letter should be about what the donor—not your nonprofit—accomplished with their gift.

5. Express heartfelt gratitude

Craft a sincere message by using emotive language to convey your gratitude. Depending on the method you use to send your letter, incorporate additional elements to make it more meaningful. Sending handwritten letters can enhance the personal feel of the message, but digital platforms may allow you to include visuals alongside your message for more vivid appreciation.

6. Invite supporters to stay involved

Your gift acknowledgment letter shouldn’t be the end of your communications with donors. Ensure they stay involved by offering additional engagement opportunities in your letter.

Invite supporters to upcoming events, highlight volunteer opportunities, and direct them to other ways to stay in touch, such as feedback surveys or social media channels. If you send a digital card, you can use links and buttons to make it easy for donors to explore your other communication channels.

Gift Acknowledgment Letter Template

To make sure you include everything that’s needed in your letter, use this template as a starting point:

Dear [Donor’s Name],

Thank you so much for your generous donation of $[amount] on [date]. This letter is to officially acknowledge the receipt of your donation, which we have designated to support our [specific program]. Your support is vital to our efforts and makes a significant impact.

Please keep this letter for your records as it may be used as official documentation for tax purposes. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your donation.

We are deeply grateful for your generosity and commitment to our cause. Your support not only helps us achieve [specific goals], but it also strengthens our community of advocates and changemakers. We would love to see you at [upcoming event] or work with you on our volunteer team. Please visit our website [website URL] or contact us directly for more information on how you can greatly enhance our collective impact.

Thank you once again for your commitment to [cause].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Position]

[Organization’s Name]

Explore more templates for thanking your donors here!

Wrapping Up

A gift acknowledgment letter weaves together your nonprofit’s appreciation, engagement, and compliance efforts following a donor’s generosity. It provides an opportunity to deeply connect and foster lasting relationships with your treasured supporters.

If you’re looking for more information on how to inspire donors to give and cultivate meaningful relationships with them, check out the following resources:

Donor Retention: A Comprehensive Guide + 9 Strategies. Don’t stop at one thank-you letter! Retain donor support in the long run using the strategies in this guide.
Digital Marketing for Nonprofits: The Ultimate Guide. Keep in touch with donors beyond your gift acknowledgment letter by optimizing your communication efforts. Explore this guide to improve your digital marketing.
Donor Stewardship: How to Retain Support Effectively. After donors give once, inspire them to continue donating through effective donor stewardship strategies. Learn how to achieve this in our guide.

Key Volunteer Time Off Statistics to Grow Your Volunteerism

May 8, 2024/in Nonprofit Basics, Learning Center, Lists and Rankings /by Adam Weinger

Volunteer time off statistics indicate that, as corporate social responsibility continues to gain traction in the business landscape, companies are increasingly offering paid release time for employees to participate in volunteer activities.

For nonprofits and schools, that means extended volunteer pools and enhanced engagement opportunities. Thus, understanding the availability and impact of paid volunteer time on your mission is crucial for leveraging the resources effectively. To do so, we’ve compiled the following insights:

Getting Started: Essential Volunteer Time Off Statistics
The Widespread Benefits of Volunteer Time Off Programs
Growing VTO Opportunities Over Time: Key Trends & Patterns
Fun Facts on Other Corporate Giving & Volunteerism Programs

Ready to dive in? Browse the VTO statistics below to begin growing your knowledge on the topic. ↴

Getting Started: Essential Volunteer Time Off Statistics

65% of companies offer some sort of paid-release-time volunteer programs for their employees.

Companies with paid volunteer time off programs offer an average of 20 VTO hours per team member annually (equalling about 2.5 days each year).

VTO is the most desired philanthropic offering a company can offer for its employees.

49% of individuals state work commitments are their biggest obstacle to volunteering.

Conversely, only 30% of volunteers cite one of their reasons for volunteering as having had the time to do so.

Nonwage benefits, including workplace giving opportunities like VTO, constitute 31.1% of private sector workers’ total compensation value.

Employees feel their corporate volunteer activities are most fulfilling when their input about the causes they support is taken into account.

As of 2024, the value of a single volunteer hour (according to the benefit it produces for an organization) is estimated to be $29.95.

An estimated 63 million Americans volunteer 7.7 billion hours each year, which is valued at ~$175 billion annually.

Key Takeaway

The popularity and growing prevalence of paid volunteer time off can go a long way for organizations looking to re-engage with dedicated supporters. The programs alleviate primary obstacles such as work commitments for potential volunteers, thereby extending the pool of interested individuals and tapping into a meaningful source of no-cost labor.

The Widespread Benefits of Volunteer Time Off Programs

Offering VTO increases a company’s employee engagement and productivity levels by 7.5% and 13%, respectively.

67% of survey respondents say that having paid time off work to participate in volunteer activities would make for a positive employee volunteer experience.

Meanwhile, 62% of individuals report that the ability to volunteer during business hours would be the top factor for a positive experience.

70% of individuals who participate in corporate volunteer programs believe that doing so boosts workplace morale more than company mixers or other bonding events.

Employees who participate in their companies’ volunteerism programs are 52% less likely to turnover, thus reducing costs for recruitment and training.

Employees who engage in corporate giving programs tend to have 75% longer tenure within their companies.

93% of respondents felt better and less stressed after 12 months of volunteering, which means less burnout, fewer instances of absenteeism, and far greater productivity for participating companies.

83% of executives believe VTO can help employees be purpose-driven.

76% of people say they developed core work skills through volunteering opportunities.

Employees see 5x higher engagement rates at companies with employee volunteer programs.

89% of Americans believe companies that sponsor volunteer activities offer a better overall workplace environment than those that don’t.

77% of nonprofit professionals report that having qualified volunteers on staff might improve their organization’s practices.

Key Takeaway

Volunteer time off, or VTO, can have a transformative impact on charitable organizations. And that’s in addition to the value received by other program stakeholders like companies and their employees. Access to qualified volunteers through corporate engagement programs (particularly those with unique skills and expertise) presents a powerful opportunity for nonprofits like yours to improve operations and further their missions effectively.

Growing VTO Opportunities Over Time: Key Trends & Patterns

An additional 21% of companies plan to implement VTO programs by the end of 2024.

Formal volunteerism has declined since 2006, with leading causes including a lack of time and flexibility by supporters.

61% of survey respondents reported that participation in employee volunteer activities increased in 2023.

Professional services, information technology, and financial services companies are the most likely to offer paid VTO programs.

The average corporate volunteer participation rate is 33%.

The participation rate at top-quartile corporate volunteer programs is 66%.

25% of survey respondents experienced an increase in their employee engagement budgets in 2023.

51% of workers expect their employers to allocate work time and resources for their employees to volunteer for social causes.

Leading volunteer activities include fundraising (36%), food collection or distribution (34.2%), making or distributing clothing, crafts, or other goods (26.5%), and mentoring youth (26.2%).

Key Takeaway

Staying abreast of trends in corporate volunteerism and other philanthropic initiatives is paramount for nonprofit staff. Why? Understanding the ongoing patterns and progression of the programs enables organizations to adapt their strategies and outreach efforts effectively. This ensures they can capitalize on emerging opportunities for collaboration and support with the greatest results!

Overall, keeping up to date empowers nonprofits to better navigate the dynamic landscape of social impact, fostering greater resilience, adaptability, and success in achieving organizational goals.

Fun Facts on Other Corporate Giving & Volunteerism Programs

Companies donate an average of $21 billion to nonprofits, schools, and other fundraising organizations each year.

40% of Fortune 500 companies offer volunteer grant programs.

80% of companies with volunteer grant programs provide between $8 and $15 per hour to the organizations to which their employees devote their time.

79% of people who volunteer with a nonprofit also contribute financially to the organization, with 84% being more likely to give if a donation match is available.

Over 26 million individuals work for companies with matching gift programs.

An estimated $2 to $3 billion is donated through employee matching gift programs each year, with an additional $4 – $7 billion going unclaimed.
Leveraging a matching gift automation tool increases matching gift revenue for nonprofits by an average of 20% to 60% each year.
Double the Donation Volunteering database contains program information on thousands of companies with volunteer grant programs, paid volunteer time off, and more.

Key Takeaway

VTO programs aren’t the only way your organization can benefit from corporate and workplace giving! From matching employee gifts to generous community grants, these initiatives represent a vital source of funding for nonprofits and schools alike. Take some time to research the giving programs made available by your supporters’ companies and see how your organization can reap the rewards.

Powering Engagement With These Volunteer Time Off Statistics

Volunteer Time Off programs hold immense potential for nonprofits like yours. As evidenced by the VTO statistics presented above, these initiatives seek to deepen engagement and incentivize supporter involvement in your cause.

When volunteers know they won’t miss out on a day’s wages to support your organization, they’ll be more inclined to play a role. As a result, VTO not only enhances employee morale for your corporate partners but also fuels meaningful philanthropy. And your nonprofit can benefit!

By leveraging these insights, pursuing available opportunities, and addressing the challenges highlighted, organizations can empower volunteers to use their time off to create lasting change. Even better, Double the Donation Volunteering can help!

Interested in diving deeper into volunteer time off and other workplace giving incentives? Check out these additional resources to learn more:

Volunteer Time Off | The Complete VTO Guide For Nonprofits. Learn more about VTO opportunities in the complete guide with tips and examples here. Bring volunteer engagement to new heights!
Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Matching Gifts. Unlock greater fundraising potential with matching gifts. Get the free guide to equip your team with knowledge and strategies to double more donations.
Top Volunteer Grant Companies: Do You Work For One? Find out if your supporters qualify for volunteer grants. Discover leading companies and learn how your nonprofit can benefit from monetizing volunteerism.

Sources

Top VTO Companies 15 Volunteer Time Off Programs to Know

Top Volunteer Time Off Companies | 35 Programs to Know

May 7, 2024/in Company Spotlights, Learning Center, Lists and Rankings /by Adam Weinger

In today’s fast-paced corporate landscape, striking a balance between professional responsibilities and personal growth can be challenging for employees. However, an increasing number of companies are recognizing the importance of community engagement. As a result, more employers are offering Paid Volunteer Time Off⁠ programs as part of their staff compensation packages. In order to get better acquainted with the idea, we’ll highlight some top VTO companies below.

(Interested in a particular employer? Click on the ‘company name’ to skip to that section!)

COMPANY NAME	ANNUAL VTO CAP	SECTOR	EMPLOYEES	HEADQUARTERS
AppDynamics	40 hours	Media & Technology	~2,000	San Francisco, CA
Blue Cross	15 hours	Healthcare	~190,000	Chicago, IL
Cisco	80 hours	Media & Technology	~84,900	San Jose, CA
County of San Mateo	20 – 416 hours	Public	~4,800	Redwood City, CA
Deloitte	8 hours	Professional Services	~455,000	London, England
EOG Resources	8 hours	Energy & Power	~2,900	Houston, TX
Enel	16 hours	Energy & Power	~6,500	Rome, Italy
FirstBank	16 hours	Financial Services	~4,100	San Juan, Puerto Rico
Getty Images	8 hours	Media & Technology	~1,700	Seattle, WA
GM Financial	32 hours	Financial Services	~8,800	Fort Worth, TX
Hasbro	48 hours	Toy & Entertainment	~5,600	Pawtucket, RI
Heineken USA	36 hours	Food & Beverage	~8,500	White Plains, NY
Humana	8 hours	Healthcare	~67,600	Louisville, KY
Ibotta	8 hours	Media & Technology	~815	Denver, CO
Intuit	32 hours	Financial Services	~18,200	Montain View, CA
Johnson & Johnson	40 hours	Healthcare	~141,700	New Brunswick, NJ
KPMG	40 hours	Professional Services	~219,200	New York, NY
Lowe’s	8 hours	Home Improvement	~300,000	Mooresville, NC
Microsoft	24 hours	Media & Technology	~221,000	Redmond, WA
Nielsen	24 hours	Information	~44,000	New York, NY
Novo Nordisk U.S.	80 hours	Healthcare	~6,400	Plainsboro, NJ
Patagonia	18 hours	Fashion & Apparel	~3,000	Ventura, CA
PNC Financial	40 hours	Financial Services	~56,400	Pittsburgh, PA
PwC US	40 hours	Professional Services	~328,000	New York, NY
Salesforce	56 hours	Media & Technology	~79,400	San Francisco, CA
Sentinel Group	16 hours	Financial Services	~325	Wakefield, MA
ServiceNow	20 hours	Media & Technology	~22,700	Santa Clara, CA
Siemens USA	16 hours	Media & Technology	~303,000	Saint Paul, MN
S&P Global	16 hours	Financial Services	~40,000	New York, NY
Tapestry	8 hours	Fashion & Apparel	~17,300	New York, NY
Takeda	16 hours	Healthcare	~47,300	Cambridge, MA
Thomson Reuters	16 hours	Information	~25,600	Toronto, Canada
Timberland	40 hours	Fashion & Apparel	~50,000	Stratham, NH
University of Arizona	8 hours	Higher Education	~16,000	Tucson, AZ
Warner Media	40 hours	Media & Technology	~35,300	New York, NY

If you’re looking for a refresher on volunteer time off—and how to make the most of the programs for your organization⁠—check out our complete VTO guide here.

Otherwise, we’ve provided a quick summary of the benefits before jumping into the compilation of VTO companies below.

BENEFITS OF VTO FOR EMPLOYEES

The opportunity to give back to their communities, develop new skills, and support causes they are passionate about through volunteerism without missing out on a portion of a regular paycheck

BENEFITS OF VTO FOR NONPROFITS

Access to skilled volunteers who are motivated to make a meaningful impact, thus expanding their capacity, tapping into specialized expertise, and accomplishing more with limited resources

BENEFITS OF VTO FOR COMPANIES

Enhanced reputation as a socially responsible employer, strengthened corporate culture with heightened staff engagement, loyalty, and retention, leading to positive business outcomes

Read up on these programs to explore top companies offering paid volunteer time off for their employees. Then, see if your supporters qualify for the benefit! 🠟

AppDynamics

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: San Francisco, CA and worldwide
Employee count: ~2,000
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

AppDynamics, a leader in application performance management, believes in giving back to the community. Their VTO program reflects this value by allowing employees to take paid time off (up to a full week each year) to engage in volunteer activities with the charitable organizations of their choice.

By providing this opportunity, AppDynamics fosters a culture of social responsibility and actively encourages its employees to contribute to the betterment of society on a local and global scale.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Sector: Healthcare
Location: Chicago, IL and nationwide
Employee count: ~190,000
VTO cap: 15 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔ (Can vary based on location)

Blue Cross Blue Shield, a network of independently owned health insurance companies across the U.S., demonstrates its commitment to improving health, going above and beyond medical care to include community well-being. Through their generous VTO program, employees are granted paid time off (equal to 15 hours, or nearly two full days of work) to volunteer for various philanthropy initiatives.

In investing in employee volunteerism, Blue Cross Blue Shield strengthens its ties to its community while supporting healthcare access for underserved populations and reinforcing its mission to promote health and wellness for all.

Cisco

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: San Jose, CA and nationwide
Employee count: ~84,900
VTO cap: 80 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

At Cisco Systems, technology is not just about innovation. It’s also about making a positive impact on society. That’s why the company’s VTO program empowers employees to spend up to two weeks each year volunteering with nonprofit causes.

As it encourages employees to give back through incentivized volunteerism, Cisco cultivates a culture of collaboration and social responsibility. Through their VTO program, employees can also leverage their skills and expertise to support the communities in which they live and work, ultimately aligning with the company’s vision of technology as a force for good.

County of San Mateo

Sector: Public
Location: Redwood City, CA
Employee count: ~4,800
VTO cap: 20 – 416 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Payroll Deductions ✔

The County of San Mateo in Redwood City, California also values community engagement and aims to incentivize philanthropy among its staff. Through its VTO program, employees are granted paid time off to volunteer for local initiatives, with the number of hours each team member receives ranging from 20 to 416 annually.

By supporting employee volunteerism, the County further strengthens its ties with the community and fosters a sense of civic pride and responsibility among its workforce.

Deloitte

Sector: Professional Services
Location: London, England and worldwide
Employee count: ~455,000
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Deloitte, a global leader in consulting and professional services, recognizes the importance of giving back to the communities it serves. It aims to increase its philanthropy efforts by offering paid volunteer time off, with team members encouraged to spend a full day each year supporting nonprofit causes.

Whether it’s providing pro bono consulting services to nonprofit organizations, participating in skills-based volunteering initiatives, or organizing fundraising events, Deloitte’s employees are empowered to make a positive impact beyond the office building.

EOG Resources

Sector: Energy & Power
Location: Houston, TX and nationwide
Employee count: ~2,900
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

EOG Resources, a leading energy company, believes in giving back to the communities where it operates. Through its VTO program, employees are provided with paid time off to volunteer for causes like environmental stewardship, community development, or disaster relief.

By supporting employee volunteerism with paid time off, EOG Resources demonstrates its commitment to corporate citizenship and sustainable development. Plus, it fosters a culture of giving and philanthropy among its workforce.

Enel North America

Sector: Energy & Power
Location: Andover, MA and worldwide
Employee count: ~6,500
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Sustainability Projects ✔

Enel, a global energy company, is committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Enel employees have the opportunity to contribute to positive change in the world by spending one day each year out of the office, giving back to their communities.

Through its VTO program, employees are encouraged to use paid time off to volunteer for a range of environmental conservation and other philanthropic efforts. By investing in employee volunteerism, Enel strengthens its reputation as a responsible corporate citizen and aligns its business objectives with the needs of society and the planet.

FirstBank

Sector: Financial Services
Location: Lakewood, CO and nationwide
Employee count: ~4,100
VTO cap: 16 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

FirstBank, a leading financial institution, believes in giving back to the communities it serves. Through its VTO program, employees are provided with paid time off to volunteer for charitable organizations and community projects two days out of the year.

Whether it’s serving meals at homeless shelters, tutoring students in underserved neighborhoods, or participating in financial literacy workshops, each employee has the opportunity to make a meaningful difference without losing out on any pay.

Getty Images

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: Seattle, WA and worldwide
Employee count: ~1,700
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

As a global leader in visual communication, Getty Images is committed to making a positive impact on society and engaging its workforce to do the same. Through its VTO program, employees are provided with paid time off to volunteer for causes, from arts and culture and education to humanitarian relief efforts.

In order to do so, Getty Images employees have the opportunity to leverage their skills and expertise to drive positive change for their nonprofit partners.

GM Financial

Sector: Financial Services
Location: Fort Worth, TX and nationwide
Employee count: ~8,800
VTO cap: 32 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Volunteer Grants ✔

GM Financial, the financial services arm of General Motors, believes in giving back to the communities it serves through volunteerism and other philanthropy programs. Through its VTO program, employees are provided with up to four days of paid time off for charitable volunteer initiatives.

By supporting employee volunteerism, GM Financial strengthens its corporate social responsibility efforts and supplies its workforce with the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Hasbro

Sector: Toy & Entertainment
Location: Pawtucket, RI and worldwide
Employee count: ~5,600
VTO cap: 48 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Hasbro is committed to making a positive impact on the world through a generous VTO program, providing employees with paid volunteer time off to devote to giving back. Corporate employees are granted four hours worth of time off each month, equating to six full days on an annual basis they can spend performing volunteer activities with a wide range of causes.

Heineken USA

Sector: Food & Beverage
Location: White Plains, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~8,500
VTO cap: 36 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Volunteer Grants ✔

Heineken, a global brewing company committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainability, believes in raising a glass to community service and volunteerism. Through its company volunteer program, employees are provided with a total of 36 hours of paid time off each year to spend volunteering for causes they are passionate about.

Humana

Sector: Healthcare
Location: Louisville, KY and nationwide
Employee count: ~67,700
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

Leading health and well-being company, Humana, believes in giving back to the communities it serves, and it encourages its staff to do so as well. Every year, Humana employees are provided with paid time off (equal to one full day of work) to spend volunteering with the charitable organizations of their choice!

Ibotta

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: Denver, CO and nationwide
Employee count: ~815
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Nonprofit Partnerships ✔

Ibotta, a leading mobile rewards platform, has also developed a VTO program designed to empower employees to spend time volunteering with nonprofit causes. Team members receive 8 hours of paid time off each year, providing them with the opportunity to make a positive difference in the world around them.

While the causes supported can range greatly, Ibotta staff have engaged with tons of organizations centered on hunger relief, education, and environmental sustainability.

Intuit

Sector: Financial Services
Location: Mountain View, CA and worldwide
Employee count: ~18,200
VTO cap: 32 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

Intuit, a leading financial software company, believes in giving back to the communities it serves. Through its VTO program, employees are provided with paid time off to volunteer for charitable organizations and community projects. Whether it’s providing tax assistance to low-income individuals, mentoring small business owners, or participating in environmental conservation efforts, Intuit employees have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world.

By supporting employee volunteerism, Intuit strengthens its corporate social responsibility efforts and reinforces its commitment to building stronger, more prosperous communities.

Johnson & Johnson

Sector: Healthcare
Location: New Brunswick, NJ and worldwide
Employee count: ~141,700
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Johnson & Johnson, a global healthcare company, is committed to improving the health and well-being of people around the world through its pharmaceutical products and beyond. One key facet of its employee giving initiatives is a generous VTO program. Through the program, employees are able to use dedicated paid time off (up to a full week each year) to volunteer with the causes of their choice.

By supporting employee volunteerism in this way, Johnson & Johnson strengthens its commitment to the company’s founding principles of caring for the communities it serves.

KPMG

Sector: Professional Services
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~219,200
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

KPMG, one of the world’s leading professional services firms, offers a standout VTO program designed to empower its employees to give back to the communities they serve. With paid volunteer time off, employees are encouraged to partake in volunteer projects during standard working hours (without losing out on any pay) for up to 5 days each year.

Talk about adding value to corporate citizenship!

Lowe’s

Sector: Home Improvement
Location: Mooresville, NC and worldwide
Employee count: ~300,000
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Community Grants ✔

Lowe’s, a leading home improvement retailer, is committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Through its VTO program, more than 300,000 employees across the globe are provided with a day’s worth of paid time off specifically for volunteerism. Whether it’s building homes for families in need, renovating schools and community centers, or participating in disaster relief efforts, Lowe’s employees have the opportunity to develop and leverage new skills, make a meaningful difference, and contribute to the well-being of communities across the country.

Microsoft

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: Redmond, WA and worldwide
Employee count: ~221,000
VTO cap: 24 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔ Microsoft Ad Grants ✔

As a leading technology company, Microsoft believes in using its resources to make a positive impact on society. That includes its labor!

Through its VTO program, Microsoft employees are encouraged to participate in dedicated technology and innovation projects to use their skills and expertise for good (for up to three working days a year).

Nielsen

Sector: Information
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~44,000
VTO cap: 24 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Volunteer Grants ✔

Nielsen is a global measurement and data analytics company, and it’s committed to making a positive impact on society through corporate philanthropy programs like paid volunteer time off and more. Each team member receives 24 hours of VTO annually, which employees can use to participate in fundraising events, community service initiatives, and other nonprofit activities.

Novo Nordisk U.S.

Sector: Healthcare
Location: Plainsboro, NJ and worldwide
Employee count: ~6,400
VTO cap: 80 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company committed to driving change and improving the lives of people with chronic diseases. One way that it aims to do so is by engaging its employees in volunteer activities (such as hosting educational workshops, participating in fundraising events, or working at free medical clinics).

The company also boasts one of the highest annual limits, offering each employee up to two weeks of paid time to spend participating in nonprofit volunteer activities.

Patagonia

Sector: Fashion & Apparel
Location: Ventura, CA and worldwide
Employee count: ~3,000
VTO cap: 18 hours per year*
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Patagonia, a leading outdoor apparel company, is committed to environmental conservation and corporate activism. By offering paid volunteer time off for its employees, the business encourages philanthropy and enhances its impact on the planet.

Plus, in addition to the standard 18 hours of VTO each year, an employee can choose to spend up to two months volunteering with the environmental organization of their choice.

PNC Financial

Sector: Financial Services
Location: Pittsburgh, PA and worldwide
Employee count: ~56,400
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

PNC Financial Services is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States. It’s also a leader in corporate philanthropy and wholeheartedly believes in giving back to the communities it serves. For example, employees are provided with paid time off to spend volunteering with nonprofit organizations through the company’s VTO program. This empowers individual team members to get involved in social good, with a generous annual limit allowing for a full week of volunteer-related activities outside the office.

PwC US

Sector: Professional Services
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~328,000
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

PwC is another of the world’s leading professional services firms. This company, as a way of committing to making a positive impact on society, also offers a generous VTO program in which employees are welcome to spend a full week’s time supporting the nonprofits of their choice. This often includes providing pro bono consulting services but can encompass a wide range of volunteer-focused activities.

Salesforce

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: San Francisco, CA and worldwide
Employee count: ~79,400
VTO cap: 56 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

As a global leader in customer relationship management software, Salesforce believes in the power and potential of using its technology for good. Through its VTO program, employees are empowered to use dedicated paid time off (up to 56 hours annually) to volunteer for their favorite causes.

Sentinel Group

Sector: Financial Services
Location: Wakefield, MA and nationwide
Employee count: ~325
VTO cap: 16 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts (with auto-submission enabled) ✔

Sentinel Group, also referred to as Sentinel Benefits and Financial Group, is a leader in risk management and security solutions. As a tangible way to give back to the communities it serves, the company has developed a generous VTO program, where employees are provided with paid time off (equal to two days annually) to volunteer with qualifying nonprofit groups.

ServiceNow

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: Santa Clara, CA and worldwide
Employee count: ~22,700
VTO cap: 20 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

ServiceNow, a leading provider of digital workflow solutions, believes in using its technology to drive positive change. Through its VTO program, employees are encouraged to use paid time off to volunteer for causes they are passionate about, such as education, environmental sustainability, or social justice.

Whether it’s developing software solutions for nonprofit organizations, organizing volunteer events, or participating in service projects, ServiceNow employees have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Siemens

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: Saint Paul, MN and worldwide
Employee count: ~303,000
VTO cap: 16 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Team Volunteer Grants ✔

Siemens, the global technology powerhouse, commits to engaging its employees by supplying 16 hours worth of paid volunteer time off every year for team members to support nonprofit causes. That’s in addition to the other giving programs the company established, which include matching employee donations and offering team-wide volunteer grants, too!

S&P Global

Sector: Financial Services
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~40,000
VTO cap: 16 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

S&P Global, a leading provider of financial market intelligence, engages its employee base in volunteerism (and other giving programs) by incentivizing their involvement. One such program offers paid VTO, or volunteer time off, where employees are given the opportunity to spend two days working with various organizations or projects on an annual basis.

Tapestry

Sector: Fashion & Apparel
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~17,300
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔

Tapestry is a leading house of modern luxury and lifestyle brands. The company is committed to making a positive impact on society in a number of ways, which include matching employee donations and offering paid time off for nonprofit volunteering. Specifically, through its VTO program, employees across Kate Spade, Coach, and Stuart Weitzman are gifted paid time off to volunteer for and make a positive impact on causes they are passionate about.

Takeda Pharmaceuticals U.S.A.

Sector: Healthcare
Location: Cambridge, MA and worldwide
Employee count: ~47,300
VTO cap: 16 hours per year*
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

Takeda Pharmaceuticals is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to making the world a better place through strategic philanthropy, innovation, and more. Through its VTO program, the company’s employees are gifted paid time off to volunteer. The program provides two days of paid time off per year, though Takeda has been known to expand the program to offer up to five days in the event of a humanitarian crisis.

Thomson Reuters

Sector: Information
Location: Toronto, Canada and worldwide
Employee count: ~15,600
VTO cap: 16 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

Thomson Reuters, a leading provider of business information services, believes in giving back through corporate volunteerism. In order to engage its employee base, the company provides an additional 16 hours of paid time off to volunteer for charitable projects.

Whether it’s providing pro bono legal services to low-income individuals, mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, or participating in environmental conservation efforts, employees have the opportunity to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Timberland

Sector: Fashion & Apparel
Location: Stratham, NH and nationwide
Employee count: ~50,000
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Volunteer Grants ✔

Timberland, along with other subsidiaries of VF Corporation like North Face, JanSport, Dickies, and more, is a global outdoor lifestyle brand committed to environmental conservation and social responsibility. Through its VTO program, employees are encouraged to use paid time off (a full week’s worth!) to participate in volunteer activities.

By supporting employee volunteerism, Timberland strengthens its commitment to corporate citizenship and reinforces its mission to inspire and equip people to step outside, work together, and make a difference in the world.

University of Arizona

Sector: Higher Education
Location: Tucson, AZ
Employee count: ~1,600
VTO cap: 8 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Scholarship Funds ✔ Research and Innovation ✔

The University of Arizona is a leading public research university. It’s also an institution that’s committed to serving the greater community and fostering social responsibility among its employees. One way that it does so is through its VTO program!

As a way to incentivize volunteerism among university faculty and staff, team members are encouraged to spend 8 hours of paid time off volunteering with nonprofit. In the end, the University strengthens its commitment to excellence and innovation, both on campus and beyond.

Warner Media

Sector: Media & Technology
Location: New York, NY and worldwide
Employee count: ~35,300
VTO cap: 40 hours per year
Other notable giving programs: Matching Gifts ✔ Volunteer Grants ✔

Warner Media, formerly Warner Bros. Discovery, is a leading global media and entertainment company devoted to driving positive change in society through various philanthropy efforts. One example of this is its VTO program, where employees are encouraged to use 40 hours of dedicated paid time off to volunteer for causes related to arts and culture, education, social justice, and beyond.

Wrapping Up

Corporate social responsibility continues to grow in terms of demand and execution alike, which means more companies participating than ever before. Volunteerism is one of the top ways for corporate employees to get involved, and paid volunteer programs from VTO companies like these offer a unique incentive for engagement.

Just remember: the companies selected above represent only a fraction of available opportunities. Encourage your volunteers, donors, and other supporters to look into their employers’ programming to see what possibilities lie in your network.

Interested in delving deeper into corporate volunteerism and other forms of workplace giving incentives? Check out the additional resources below:

Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Matching Gifts. Unlock your full fundraising potential with matching gifts! This downloadable resource shares invaluable insights and tips to help navigate the world of matching gifts with ease.
Maximizing Impact With Corporate Volunteer Grant Programs. Volunteer grant programs provide charitable funds in response to employee volunteerism. Learn to identify opportunities, enhance engagement, and maximize financial support here.
Navigating Corporate Philanthropy | A Nonprofit Playbook. Gain a deeper understanding of corporate giving in this guide. From establishing partnerships to securing vital funding, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed.

Scale up your organization's corporate volunteer strategy with 360MatchPro 💡

Learn about the matching gift opportunities in Detroit.

Matching Gift Programs: Top Companies in Detroit, Michigan

May 6, 2024/in Lists and Rankings, Matching Gift Companies /by Adam Weinger

At Double the Donation, we help nonprofits across the country increase their revenue through corporate matching gifts and volunteer grants. Through these programs, employers match the financial donations (or, provide a financial donation corresponding to volunteer hours) given by their employees to qualifying nonprofit organizations.

We’ve found that the best place to start is by discovering the top companies in your area offering these corporate philanthropy programs. After receiving several calls from the Detroit area we decided to write an article on a few of the big corporations in Michigan willing to match donations made by their employees.

We’re going to examine corporate philanthropy, in general, for Detroit before going into further detail on the following companies:

Ally Financial
Eaton Corporation
DTE Energy
Fifth Third Bank
PricewaterhouseCoopers

This list is by no means comprehensive when it comes to all of the companies offering match programs in Michigan, and you should consider supplementing it with your own outside research. If you do, consider using a dedicated matching gift tool to supplement your search.

The Best Way to Discover Matching Gift Programs

Whether you’re just beginning to solicit matching gifts or you already have procedures in place, a dedicated matching gift tool is a valuable resource. These tools can not only help you discover matching gift opportunities but also educate donors on submitting a match request in the process.

Double the Donation is the leading matching gift software that serves the needs of nonprofits large and small. This matching gift automation platform is perfect for nonprofits looking to grow their already-existing solicitation processes. By automatically searching for a donor’s eligibility upon donation, and sending marketing communications once eligibility is established, this software decreases the workload for nonprofits receiving matched gifts.

Now, continue reading for a look at corporate philanthropy in Detroit.

Detroit Matching Donations List

Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and, as such, is the financial and cultural center of the state.

The city has long been known as the nation’s leader in the automotive industry. Even after the financial downturn of many automotive staples, many strong companies with philanthropic roots remain tied to the city.

Ally Financial

Ally Financial Inc. will match donations between $1 and $250. Ally is unique in that it matches donations as low as one dollar. If you have a large number of donors making smaller donations, a matching program like Ally’s could make a significant difference.

Eaton Corporation

Eaton will match donations to many nonprofits, including arts and civic organizations and educational institutions. The company will double donations made by employees that are up to $5,000.

DTE Energy

DTE will match up to $5,000 per employee, with the minimum gift matched at $25. DTE Energy also has a generous volunteer grant program.

Fifth Third Bank

Both full and part-time employees of Fifth Third Bancorp are elligible to take part in the matching gift program. Bancorp will match gifts between $25 and $1500.

PricewaterhouseCoopers

PricewaterhouseCoopers has one of the more generous matching gift programs in Detroit. They will match gifts up to $10,000 per employee each year. They will match donations made to higher education.

Just as Detroit offers many opportunities to increase your revenue through matching gifts, other cities across North America do as well. Check out the following list of top companies offering these programs, and consider using a matching gift tool to do further research for yourself:

Top companies throughout the US and Canada offering matching gift programs.

Guide to gift acceptance policies for nonprofits

Gift Acceptance Policies: Templates and FAQs for Nonprofits

May 6, 2024/in Nonprofit Basics, Learning Center /by Adam Weinger

Gift acceptance policies are an essential but easily overlooked part of nonprofit management. You won’t miss them until you need them, and then you’ll wish you’d created them earlier!

To avoid touchy (and potentially damaging) donor relations and legal situations, it’s worth taking the time to study up on these policies and how to create them. This quick guide covers all the essentials, plus extra considerations you need to know:

Understanding Gift Acceptance Policies
How to Create a Gift Acceptance Policy
See Them in Action: Example Policies
Gift Acceptance Policy Templates
Additional Considerations to Keep in Mind

Looking for more ways to improve your nonprofit’s governing structures and set your organization up for success? We recommend board self-assessments.

Understanding Nonprofit Gift Acceptance Policies

Let’s start with the fundamentals by reviewing a few frequently asked questions about nonprofit gift policies.

What is a gift acceptance policy?

A gift acceptance policy is a section of or addendum to a nonprofit’s bylaws that clearly defines the types of gifts it can and cannot accept. These policies most often come into play when donors offer to give unusual or exceedingly valuable in-kind or non-cash gifts.

In addition to defining acceptable types of gifts, thorough (and effective) acceptance policies also cover:

The circumstances under which certain types of gifts can be accepted
How certain types of in-kind and non-cash gifts will be liquidated and/or managed
Who at the nonprofit is responsible for reviewing donations that may conflict with the acceptance policy
Logistical details defining how certain gifts will recognized, tracked, and reported
Guidelines for your general gift substantiation process, which is how and when donors receive acknowledgment for tax-deductible gifts valued over $250

Why do nonprofits create gift acceptance policies?

A gift acceptance policy spells out what you can and cannot accept, giving your fundraisers and donors a concrete set of guidelines to reference when tricky conversations arise.

Why is this important? All kinds of tangible items, assets, and securities get donated to nonprofits, and many may come with added baggage, such as compliance requirements, reputational implications, complex restrictions, and additional costs. This means there are cases when it’s in your nonprofit’s best interest to turn down a gift, either because its value isn’t worth the added work/cost of accepting it or because it might open you up to new liabilities that aren’t worth the risk.

Acceptance policies can also establish operating guidelines for gift substantiation and reporting, which are essential for maintaining your nonprofit’s legal compliance.

Plus, you may be required to have a gift acceptance policy in place when reporting some gifts to the IRS in your nonprofit’s annual 990 filing process. When reporting non-cash gifts, your nonprofit may be required to complete Schedule M (Noncash Contributions) of Form 990 if it has received over $25,000 in non-cash gifts or received certain gifts of art or similar assets. Schedule M asks whether you have a gift acceptance policy in place, and “no” is not an acceptable answer to this question.

What are the benefits of having concrete gift policies?

Gift acceptance policies provide a few key benefits:

Policies give you concrete criteria for determining if you should or shouldn’t accept a gift with no guesswork needed.
Policies make it much easier for fundraisers to turn down a gift with a simple “Our acceptance policy prohibits this kind of gift,” rather than a protracted or confusing conversation that could damage your relationship with the donor.
Guidelines for gift reporting and substantiation included in your acceptance policy help to ensure that your organization fully complies with regulations by documenting them and assigning ownership in a central location.
As mentioned above, gift acceptance policies are required as part of the Form 990 process, essential for maintaining your organization’s tax-exempt status.

How to Create a Gift Acceptance Policy: 5 Steps

You’re ready to update (or write your first) gift acceptance policy for your organization. Great! Now, what next? We recommend these core steps:

Secure buy-in and alignment. Get your organization’s leadership and board on the same page about the need for a new or updated gift acceptance policy. You need official sign-off and ratification for the policy addition to take effect, so get a head start by putting it on everyone’s radar. Recruit one or two individuals to join a small committee. If you have a board member with professional legal experience or connections, ask them specifically to join.
Draft your gift acceptance policy. Work with your team to draft a policy for your organization. Take a look at the example policies and templates below to get started. But be sure to take your time and seek legal input if needed. Although nonprofits’ gift acceptance policies are often quite similar, they should not be one-size-fits-all. A policy customized to your nonprofit’s needs, past experiences, and anticipated challenges (even if they’re unlikely) always offers the best protection.
Review and revise as a team. Gather feedback from your team and one or two other organizational leaders or legal counsel who haven’t been involved in the drafting process. They’ll evaluate the policy more objectively and identify any potential problems or gaps that should be addressed in the next draft.
Vote and enact your policy addition. Once you have a final version, share it with leaders and the board ahead of your next board meeting, and add the policy to the meeting agenda. During the meeting, discuss it as a group, determine if any further changes are needed, and then follow your organization’s protocol to vote on and enact the policy addition.
Communicate the change internally. Add the new policy to your nonprofit’s official bylaws, republish them, and notify your entire internal team. Send a quick email that links to the updated policy and explains these key points:
- What an acceptance policy is
- Why you’ve created or updated one
- How it will help your nonprofit and specific teams
- Who to contact with questions

See Them in Action: Example Gift Acceptance Policies

Check out these real examples of nonprofit gift acceptance policies:

If you’re drafting or updating your own policy, we recommend carefully reading thorough examples like these to see their full range of details and specifications. Here are some notable sections and inclusions from these examples:

Introductions and contextual sections that clearly define what your nonprofit considers a “gift”
Details about any gift review committees or internal staff positions in charge of reviewing specific types of gifts and what that process entails
Details, requirements, and expectations for any gift agreement processes that you may implement to ensure mutual understanding of the policies for large gifts above a certain value threshold
Exact acceptance criteria and processes for gifts of cash, publicly traded securities, private securities, cryptocurrency, various types of in-kind gifts, real estate, donor-advised fund grants, various types of planned gifts, and more
Liquidation timeframes for gifts of securities or cryptocurrency
Whether certain types of gifts will be restricted or unrestricted upon donation, plus the process for changing a donation’s restriction status if desired by the donor
Explanations of how employer-sponsored matching gifts will be recorded and substantiated
Details about standard gift counting and reporting processes

Gift Acceptance Policy Templates

Gift acceptance policies are extremely varied as the whole point is that they should protect and support your unique organization. However, they do usually share a few common elements and details that make your staff’s lives easier and protect your 501(c)(3) status.

Policies can be simple and short to cover your bases or extremely thorough to spell out exact protocols for specific situations. For reference, here are templates for a basic and more detailed gift acceptance policy:

Gift Acceptance Policy Template – Basic

[Nonprofit] solicits and accepts gifts consistent with its mission and support its core programs and special projects.

Donations and other donated forms of support are generally accepted from individuals, corporations, foundations, government agencies, and other partners, subject to the following acceptance limitations:

[Descriptions of limitations, which may include:]

[Specific types of gifts]

[Delivery/pickup of donated items]

[Condition of donated items]

[Proof of ownership or provenance of donated items]

Gifts of Real Property, Personal Property, Securities, and other Assets may only be accepted upon approval of [specific committee within the nonprofit].

This example clearly states that accepted gifts are determined to be consistent with the mission, adhere to specific limitations, and require approval in some cases. Its last point helps cover your bases and eliminates the need for granular detail, but do not neglect to follow through with the approval process.

If a policy is so loose or light that it’s forgotten the next time a donor wants to gift you a certain type of donation, you might as well not have the policy in place at all!

Gift Acceptance Policy Template – Moderately Thorough

[Nonprofit] solicits and accepts gifts for purposes that will help it further and fulfill its mission. [Nonprofit] encourages prospective donors to seek the assistance of personal legal and financial advisors in matters relating to their gifts, including the resulting tax and estate planning consequences. The following policies govern acceptance of gifts made to [Nonprofit].

Purpose of the Policy: The purpose of this policy is to govern the acceptance by [Nonprofit] of [all or specific types of gifts], and to provide guidance to prospective donors.

Gift Review Committee: Any gift or proposed gift that does not comply with this policy must be reviewed and approved by the [internal committee], which is composed of [internal roles that make up the committee]. As indicated below, certain proposed gifts may require the approval of the [Board or Executive leadership, if applicable].

Use of Legal Counsel: [Nonprofit] will seek the advice of legal counsel in matters relating to acceptance of gifts when appropriate. Review by counsel is recommended for [common stipulations below]:

Gifts of securities that are subject to restrictions or buy-sell agreements

Documents naming [Nonprofit] as trustee or requiring it to act in any fiduciary capacity

Gifts requiring [Nonprofit] to assume financial or other obligations

Transactions with potential conflicts of interest

Gifts of property that may be subject to environmental or other regulatory restrictions

Restrictions on Gifts: [Nonprofit] will not accept gifts that:

Would result in [Nonprofit] violating its corporate charter

Would result in [Nonprofit] losing its status as an IRC § 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

Are too difficult or too expensive to administer in relation to their value

Would result in any unacceptable consequences for the organization

Are for purposes outside [Nonprofit]’s mission.

Decisions on the restrictive nature of a gift, and its acceptance or refusal, shall be made by the Executive Committee, in consultation with the Executive Director.

Gifts Generally Accepted Without Review [common examples below]:

Cash. Cash gifts are acceptable in any form, including by check, money order, credit card, or online… [Provide additional requirements and restrictions for all gift types as needed.]

Marketable Securities. [Include details about the transfer process, liquidation timeframe, restrictions, approval processes, etc.]

Bequests and Beneficiary Designations under Revocable Trusts, Life Insurance Policies, Commercial Annuities, and Retirement Plans.

Gifts Accepted Subject to Prior Review:

Certain forms of gifts or donated properties will be subject to review by [committee, board, and/or executive leadership] prior to acceptance. Examples of gifts subject to prior review include, but are not limited to [common examples below]:

Tangible Personal Property. [Details about acceptance requirements, restrictions, approval processes and criteria, etc.]

Life Insurance.

Real Estate.

This example is more thorough than the first and more clearly defines specific details about types of gifts and the processes and protocols that surround their acceptance.

But if you want, your policy can go even further! Consult with your nonprofit’s legal counsel to develop a gift acceptance policy tailored to your organization’s exact needs.

However, remember that while you don’t necessarily need to get your gift acceptance policy perfect the very first time, you do need to have one in place! You can always expand or refine it over time by working with your organization’s leaders and legal counsel.

Additional Considerations to Keep in Mind

As you draft or update your nonprofit’s acceptance policy, there are additional considerations that you should keep in mind. These will help to further protect your organization, maximize the policy’s utility and value, and ensure adoption.

Adjust your policy over time. As noted above, your gift acceptance policy is not set in stone. Drafting an exhaustive policy isn’t always necessary, and it can be quite time-intensive when done on your own. If you need to develop a basic one to cover your bases quickly, go for it. Then, take the time later to consult with a nonprofit legal expert, draft a more thorough version, and get it approved by your board.
Include gift-specific clauses as needed. It might be easy to define what your nonprofit considers “gifts” and slap a gift review committee process onto the policy (definitely better than nothing!), but it might not serve you well in the long run. It’s easy to forget or neglect loose policies, and policies that create additional steps for multiple team members are likely to be disliked and perhaps disregarded over time—not a good outcome. Consider the types of gifts you currently accept and want to accept. For example, if your nonprofit wants to intentionally expand its programs for securing planned gifts or corporate gifts of in-kind goods, a policy playbook will be extremely helpful for reaching these goals.
Consider additional types of clauses as needed. Most notably, decide if you want to include variance and morality clauses. The primary function of these clauses is to give your nonprofit options for dealing with the repercussions of a donor’s poor reputation or legal troubles, allowing your organization to separate itself from their name. An unfortunate outcome, but it does happen, so best to have options!
- Variance clauses in gift agreements dictate what happens when the original terms of a gift can no longer be met. For example, if a building funded by a donor’s major gift is renovated or rebuilt, their name will be removed from the updated or new building. These clauses can also more generally ban perpetual public recognition and eliminate any expectations that your nonprofit must display the donor’s name on prominent funded buildings or installations in perpetuity.
- Morality clauses explicitly give your nonprofit the ability to distance itself and remove naming if a donor (or the donor’s business practices) no longer align with your stated values and mission. These can be touchy to discuss with donors, which is why many nonprofits rely on a combination of variance and morality clauses to provide protection without offending new donors when gift terms are discussed.
Have a plan for using your gift acceptance policy. When your gift acceptance policy is triggered (or a gift officer simply encounters an unfamiliar situation), have a process and guidelines in place for how to discuss it with donors. First, ensure your policy is internally publicized and easily accessible to everyone in your bylaws. Next, actively train your fundraisers, gift officers, accounting team, and any other relevant staff on the policy’s contents and applicability. Outline specific steps they should follow to elevate unusual or new issues that aren’t covered in your policy.

Deepening Relationships Through Non-Cash and Corporate Gifts

One final recommendation is to use the occasion of drafting or updating your nonprofit’s gift acceptance policy as an opportunity to consider your current (and ideal) revenue streams.

These policies are most helpful in situations that involve either non-cash gifts or donations made through other organizations rather than individuals. As you work on your acceptance policy, use it as a springboard to think about what further growth might look like for your nonprofit. Consider these questions:

Are you heavily reliant on individual contributions?
Are you making the most of opportunities to secure non-cash gifts or gifts from businesses and foundations?
Do you actively talk about diverse or alternate giving options with donors?
Have you promoted matching gifts to your donors (the easiest way to build a corporate giving stream by far)?
Do you explore your major and mid-level donors’ corporate connections to uncover new potential partnerships?

Corporate giving platforms for nonprofits like Double the Donation and software built specifically for planned giving, stock giving, DAFs, and more can help you build more robust giving programs that match the robustness of your acceptance policies (and aspirations).

Explore your options and don’t be afraid to diversify. Overreliance on a single form of revenue is risky for nonprofits, and there are tons of easy ways to diversify your fundraising and give your donors better, more flexible experiences. To continue learning how to build a well governed and funded nonprofit, take a look at these additional resources:

Volunteer Time Off | The Ultimate VTO Guide For Nonprofits

May 2, 2024/in About Double the Donation, Learning Center, Volunteer Grant Companies /by Adam Weinger

A man using fundraising software on his computer with the title of the article next to him: How A Corporate Giving Database Unlocks Fundraising Success

How A Corporate Giving Database Unlocks Fundraising Success

May 1, 2024/in About Double the Donation, Learning Center /by Adam Weinger

Companies gave an impressive $29.48 billion to U.S. charities in 2022. Even with this generosity, nonprofits frequently overlook revenue opportunities. In fact, $4-$7 billion in funds allocated for matching gifts go unclaimed every year. That’s where a corporate giving database comes in.

This technology makes it easy for nonprofits to identify companies that offer CSR opportunities, such as workplace giving programs, sponsorships, and in-kind gifts. With a comprehensive and accurate database, nonprofits can access detailed information about corporate giving programs, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines.

This article will cover these topics and share how nonprofits can utilize corporate giving databases to discover companies willing to donate:

What Is A Corporate Giving Database?
CSR Databases: Understanding The Business Perspective
Double the Donation’s Corporate Giving Database For Nonprofits
How Nonprofits Can Leverage Our Corporate Giving Database

These databases aren’t just information repositories; they’re gateways to increased donations through generous companies. Let’s explore how to harness this technology to unlock greater fundraising success at your nonprofit.

What Is A Corporate Giving Database?

A corporate giving database is a comprehensive resource that compiles information on corporate philanthropy programs. This technology helps nonprofits identify potential funding opportunities by providing details on individual companies’ program criteria, application processes, and contact information.

Some databases offer geographic search functions, while others require you to search for specific companies by name. A database will typically store information on different types of giving opportunities such as:

Matching Gifts: In this program, companies match donations their employees make to eligible nonprofits, effectively doubling the initial donation amount.
Volunteer Grants: Corporations provide monetary grants to nonprofits where their employees volunteer usually based on the number of hours volunteered.
Volunteer Time Off: This type of program provides employees with dedicated PTO hours they can spend volunteering with nonprofit causes.
In-Kind Donations: Instead of cash, businesses donate goods or services, such as products, professional services, or other resources that the nonprofit might need.
Cause Marketing: Also called cause-related marketing, cause marketing is when companies collaborate with nonprofits to launch campaigns where a portion of the revenue from certain products or services is donated to the nonprofit.
Community Grants: Corporations provide grants for specific projects or programs that align with their CSR objectives, often focusing on local community enhancement.

Double the Donation’s matching gift database stores information on companies’ matching gift and volunteer grant programs. Fundraisers, donors, and volunteers can use the database to search for their employers and discover employee eligibility requirements, which nonprofits are eligible for matching grants, grant amounts, and match ratios. It’ll even provide instructions on submitting a match request and a link to the form, if available.

For example, here are the guidelines our database has for YUM Brands, which owns KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell:

Corporate giving databases are ideal for nonprofits looking for support and journalists reporting on CSR contributions.

CSR Databases: Understanding The Business Perspective

Companies that give to charity receive a reputation boost, tax write-offs, and increased employee engagement. As such, many corporations like to publicize their CSR efforts by creating dedicated web pages. They’ll also reach out to corporate giving database providers to be added to their systems, making it easy for nonprofits and employees to research donation opportunities and find eligibility requirements.

Reasons that companies share their CSR policies include:

Enhanced brand reputation: Our CSR research indicates that consumers are 4-6x more likely to trust, protect, champion, and purchase from companies with a strong sense of purpose. Meanwhile, 93% of employees prefer working for companies that lead with purpose. That means companies with CSR initiatives are more likely to win over employees and consumers.
Higher employee participation in CSR: Promoting their workplace giving programs means more employee participation! For example, let’s say someone donates to your nonprofit. If their employer shares their information with a corporate giving database provider, donors can research their eligibility and determine if they’re match-eligible right from your donation page.
Community goodwill: Some companies show off their support for specific causes that align with their companies’ services. Our list of corporate philanthropy examples highlights how Bombas, a popular clothing retailer, donates socks, t-shirts, or underwear for every item purchased. They’ve donated 100 million items to 3,500+ shelters, transitional living facilities, and other community organizations.

Some companies manage corporate giving by launching a separately administered private foundation, for which the IRS requires public disclosure. Companies typically share impact metrics, funding opportunities, and how to apply for funding on their websites.

However, businesses commonly donate through corporate giving programs. Since companies aren’t required to publicize these programs, you might have trouble finding which businesses offer them. A corporate giving database like ours can help here! Our team constantly updates its database with the latest information on companies’ CSR programs. With records on more than 24,000 companies, our matching gift database is the most comprehensive, accurate one in the world.

Why Some Companies Cautiously Share Their CSR Programs

While there are several benefits to marketing CSR programs, some companies choose to limit their publicization. Here’s why some companies choose to limit the visibility of their philanthropic activities:

Concerns over too many donation requests
Privacy considerations for recipients or sensitive projects
Angering customers who think the company is wasting money on an organization or cause they don’t approve of

Instead of publishing relevant CSR information on their website, businesses may quietly add their information to a corporate giving database to ensure key information is available to only those who need it, such as nonprofits and employees.

Double the Donation’s Corporate Giving Database For Nonprofits

Our corporate giving database is specifically designed to help nonprofits increase fundraising through corporate philanthropy. It’s the world’s most comprehensive matching gift database, representing 26.8 million matching gift-eligible individuals at 24,000+ companies. That’s an incredible 99.68% of all match-eligible donors!

With it, your nonprofit can:

Identify and pursue match-eligible gifts and volunteer grants
Uncover in-kind giving opportunities, corporate grants, sponsorships, and more
Incorporate matching gifts into existing software via 100+ integrations, including leading providers like Blackbaud and Classy
Simplify the matching gift and volunteer grant experience for supporters
Save time with automated email streams that encourage supporters to submit requests to their employers
Track and report on matching gifts with ease
Uncover volunteer time off opportunities offered by generous employers in your network

Our team also constantly searches for and resolves stumbling blocks like broken links, outdated forms, and loading issues. That way, donors and volunteers won’t waste time completing an application just to find out they’re not eligible.

How Our Corporate Giving Database Works

Nonprofits can easily make using our database a part of their existing donation and volunteer management processes. Here’s how it works:

Embed our company search tool into key areas on your website like your donation form and confirmation page.
Supporters look up their employers. They can search for subsidiaries, brand names, and local offices. Even if they misspell the company’s name, our database can help them find the right one.
Supporters view the company’s guidelines. For matching gifts, this includes minimum and maximum donation amounts, match ratios, employee eligibility requirements, nonprofit eligibility requirements, and request deadlines.
If available, supporters click the link to the match request form or follow other submission guidelines. Currently, we have over 90% of forms available in our CSR database.

Watch this virtual tour of our platform, so you can envision how it’ll work for your team:

With Double the Donation, you can check on individual donors’ match statuses and follow up at any point. You’ll even have a matching gift dashboard to get a snapshot of your nonprofit’s corporate giving fundraising results!

As the leader in matching gift technology, we’re constantly developing powerful new features to drive nonprofits’ success forward. For instance, our latest innovation is matching gift auto-submission, which gives donors the option to let our technology submit their match requests for them. That means less work for them, fewer errors on their forms, and more revenue for your nonprofit!

With Double the Donation, you can rest assured that you’re making the most of corporate matching gifts.

How Nonprofits Can Leverage Our Corporate Giving Database

Nonprofits of all shapes and sizes should learn how to leverage a corporate giving database. These databases can help your nonprofit identify and connect with companies whose giving criteria match your mission, helping to pinpoint long-term partnerships.

If investing in a corporate giving database sounds like a smart move, here’s how you can make the most of Double the Donation:

Educate your team. Ensure your team knows how to use your corporate giving database. Nonprofits who use our database can explore our support articles, learn all about corporate giving through our Matching Gift Academy, and connect with our highly-responsive team if they need help.
Embed the company search tool into key places. Add our company search tool to your online donation form and confirmation page to enable donors to check if their employer offers matching gifts when donating. Some nonprofits create a dedicated corporate giving page that features CSR opportunities and the search tool.

Track and report on CSR results. Our platform maintains detailed records of your supporters’ corporate giving to analyze your strategies’ success. Pay special attention to companies that give substantially to your organization. Then, follow up to emphasize their impact and thank them for their support. This can lead to ongoing support through long-term partnerships and sponsored events.

By following these strategies, your nonprofit can boost its fundraising efforts with our corporate giving database. In no time, you’ll raise more funds and build stronger relationships with donors and corporate partners.

Final Thoughts on Corporate Giving Databases

Corporate giving databases offer a vital resource for nonprofits seeking to maximize their fundraising efforts and enhance their impact. By leveraging companies’ generosity, your nonprofit can expand its capacity to serve, innovate, and thrive.

To learn more about unlocking growth via corporate giving, explore these educational resources:

The Ultimate Fundraising Guide to Corporate Giving Programs: Dive into the world of corporate philanthropy with this guide for nonprofits. Learn about types of corporate giving, including everything from sponsorships to automatic payroll deductions.
Top 20+ Matching Gift Companies: Leaders in Corporate Giving: Explore leading companies we pulled from our matching gift database that give back to nonprofits.
Matching Gift Databases: What Nonprofits Should Know: Matching gift databases are a particular type of corporate giving database. Learn the fundamentals of these platforms and how using one can impact your fundraising.

Handbid and Double the Donation Partner with Integrated Matching Gifts Solution

April 29, 2024/in About Double the Donation /by Adam Weinger

Handbid and Double the Donation are proud to announce a new integration and partnership to benefit nonprofits and their donors through employer matching gifts. The integration places Double the Donation tools on Handbid donation forms for donors to discover their eligibility for matching gifts from their employer.

“We know from our experience with mobile bidding and auctions that donors love when they can give in unique, scalable ways,” said Jeff Porter, Founder of Handbid. “We consider corporate matching gifts to be one of those key ways donors can deepen their impact again and again.”

An estimated $4-7 billion in matching gift funds goes unclaimed every year. These are funds specifically set aside for nonprofit organizations–and the goal of the Double the Donation and Handbid integration is to help organizations start reaping the benefits of corporate philanthropy programs.

“Every day donors make gifts to the organizations they care about but don’t realize they can make an even bigger difference thanks to their employer,” said Adam Weinger, President at Double the Donation. “Automation through Double the Donation and Handbid guides those donors to the programs that can literally double their donations.”

Handbid and Double the Donation’s new integration with Double the Donation can now be accessed by mutual clients of the solutions. Follow our integration guide for more details on how to get connected.

Ready to add matching gifts to your Handbid donation experience? Request a demo with us and make sure to share you’re a Handbid user!

Want additional resources to help you take your matching gifts strategy to the next level? Enroll today in our Matching Gift Academy for in-depth content about growing your matching gift revenue.

What is Email Domain Screening?

The Email Domain Screening Process

How Email Domain Screening Uncovers More Matching Gifts

Other Ways to Identify Matching Gift Opportunities

1. Embed a company search tool on your donation form.

2. Add a matching gift widget to your confirmation screen.

3. Enlist email follow-up outreach.

4. Consider an employer append service.

5. Conduct a bulk matching gift screening.

Wrapping Up

How Do Nonprofits Collect Data?

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Nonprofit Data

The Importance of Efficient Nonprofit Data Collection

Key Types of Nonprofit Data to Collect

Supporter Data

Marketing Data

Campaign Data

Financial Data

Corporate Partnership Data

Data From External Studies

Tips to Improve Your Nonprofit Data Collection

Use Software That Integrates.

Use Ethical Nonprofit Data Collection Practices.

Routinely Clean Your Data.

Next Steps for Your Nonprofit Data Collection

Gift Acknowledgement Letter FAQs

What is a gift acknowledgment letter?

Is a gift acknowledgment letter required?

Should gift acknowledgment letters be sent for matched gifts?

How soon after donors give should it be sent?

What should be included in a gift acknowledgment letter?

How to Write a Gift Acknowledgment Letter

1. State the purpose of your letter

2. Make your letter visually engaging

3. Personalize your note

4. Explain the impact of the gift

5. Express heartfelt gratitude

6. Invite supporters to stay involved

Gift Acknowledgment Letter Template

Wrapping Up

Getting Started: Essential Volunteer Time Off Statistics

The Widespread Benefits of Volunteer Time Off Programs

Growing VTO Opportunities Over Time: Key Trends & Patterns

Fun Facts on Other Corporate Giving & Volunteerism Programs

Powering Engagement With These Volunteer Time Off Statistics

Sources

EOG Resources

KPMG

Timberland

Wrapping Up

The Best Way to Discover Matching Gift Programs

Detroit Matching Donations List

Ally Financial

Eaton Corporation

DTE Energy

Fifth Third Bank

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Understanding Nonprofit Gift Acceptance Policies

What is a gift acceptance policy?

Why do nonprofits create gift acceptance policies?

What are the benefits of having concrete gift policies?

How to Create a Gift Acceptance Policy: 5 Steps

See Them in Action: Example Gift Acceptance Policies

Gift Acceptance Policy Templates

Gift Acceptance Policy Template – Basic

Gift Acceptance Policy Template – Moderately Thorough

Additional Considerations to Keep in Mind

Deepening Relationships Through Non-Cash and Corporate Gifts

What Is A Corporate Giving Database?

CSR Databases: Understanding The Business Perspective

Why Some Companies Cautiously Share Their CSR Programs

Double the Donation’s Corporate Giving Database For Nonprofits

How Our Corporate Giving Database Works

How Nonprofits Can Leverage Our Corporate Giving Database

Final Thoughts on Corporate Giving Databases

Get started

The Database

Resources

About

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