As I See It: Thank You & Mean It
Photo: Canva
In the world of philanthropy, the phrase "thank you" carries more weight than just polite words. It’s a powerful acknowledgment of the generosity, time and effort that makes positive change possible.
November kicks off a time of year when we focus on gratitude and perhaps say “thank you” a bit more. It’s the perfect time to cultivate a deeper sense of appreciation that lasts long after the holiday season.
But there’s a catch: saying "thank you" isn’t enough. To truly make an impact, we need to mean it. Gratitude isn’t just a formality; it’s the foundation of connection, trust and mutual respect. When you express genuine appreciation, it reinforces the very essence of giving and receiving in the philanthropic world. Whether you’re thanking a donor, a volunteer or a team member, authentic gratitude creates a cycle of goodwill that fuels continued support and strengthens the bonds that drive meaningful change.
Here are five tips to help us all tap into simple but genuine gratitude every day. These tips create a culture where everyone feels valued, supported and ready to take on the next challenge—together!
1. Lead by Example
As a nonprofit leader, your actions set the tone for the entire organization. If you want your team to embrace gratitude, model it yourself. Acknowledge the small wins, express appreciation openly and be specific in your thanks. Whether it’s a shout-out during a meeting or a handwritten note, your gratitude will inspire others to follow suit.
2. Incorporate Gratitude into Your Meetings
Start your meetings on a positive note by dedicating a few minutes to sharing moments of appreciation. Encourage team members to highlight each other’s contributions or ask individuals to share something they’re thankful for that week. This practice can help foster a sense of belonging and positivity that sets the tone for the rest of the meeting.
3. Celebrate Milestones, Big and Small
Don’t wait for major milestones like annual fundraising targets to celebrate your team. Recognize smaller wins along the way—whether it's a successful project launch, an individual’s effort or a new partnership. Celebrating these achievements helps reinforce a culture of appreciation and keeps morale high, even during busy times.
4. Create a "Gratitude Wall" or Board
Physically or digitally, create a space where team members can post notes of gratitude. Whether it’s acknowledging someone's extra effort, a thoughtful gesture or just general appreciation, this collective space will serve as a daily reminder of the positive impact everyone is making. It's a great way to highlight the often-overlooked contributions of your team and keep spirits lifted.
5. Provide Regular Feedback
Gratitude isn’t just about saying "thank you" and meaning it. It’s also about providing meaningful feedback. Regularly check in with team members to offer constructive praise and recognition. Make it a point to let them know how their work is helping the organization fulfill its mission. When people feel appreciated for their efforts, they’re more motivated and engaged in the cause.
Final Thoughts
Gratitude doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—it’s the small, consistent acts of appreciation that can make all the difference. By embracing genuine gratitude, nonprofits can create a positive, energized environment that fuels lasting relationships and strengthens your ability to continue to create meaningful change in our community.
Thank you for all that you do – and I do mean it!
Yours in gratitude,
Laura Hutyra, CFRE
Results-driven leadership is the name of the game for Laura Hutyra. As Vice President and a seasoned fundraising executive, Laura helps nonprofit clients throughout Texas and beyond solve challenges and meet their mission, while also leading the team in collaborative projects and operations to grow the company.
