Planning your communications strategically is important because it saves time, money, and stress. If you have a strategic communication plan, you know what it is you need to do and why. Here’s a guide to planning your communications in three sections.

Telling stories is the fastest way to take your mission from abstract idea to concrete action in the minds of your supporters. For a year-end fundraising appeal letter or email, your stories will need to be brief. There’s a simple formula you can use to create your story for your year-end appeal letter (or email).

There’s a lot to love about podcasts right now. One of the things I’m most excited about when it comes to podcasts: It’s a great way to engage and connect with your donors on a whole new level. Read the 10 reasons why nonprofits need to consider creating a podcast as an engagement tool.

One of the most dramatic ways to help potential and existing donors understand the importance of a nonprofit’s mission is to let them to experience the work in action. Podcasts are an excellent way to do this.

I have a strong belief in creating community among a nonprofit’s donors. I also believe in sharing stories and giving donors a window into the work being done to accomplish the mission. Now, creating community and sharing stories about the work are more important than ever.

Small businesses and especially nonprofits should take a page out of Madeline’s book and remember that a heartfelt thanks from a real person goes a long way. So often these personal touches are reserved only for the big spenders, and that’s a mistake. Take the time to give genuine thanks to the people who support you. All of them, even the ones that make one small purchase or donation. They matter, and they’ll come back.