Struggling to find the words to communicate with your donors right now? We’ve got you covered with customizable templates just for you! This resource has you covered for donor communication during COVID-19.

We hope this saves you time and helps you stay in conversation with your donors during COVID-19.

Sample Email

Hi [FIRST NAME],

As COVID-19 continues to spread, the future has never felt so unpredictable. These are challenging times for us all, and we hope you’re in good spirits and health! Right now, we’re doing everything possible to sustain daily operations and provide services to our community. While there’s a lot of uncertainty, we know that we need to adapt fast to our changing reality. Now, more than ever, our community needs us. And we need you.

If you’re able, please make a donation to [INSERT SPECIFIC PURPOSE FOR FUNDS]. If you’re unable to donate at this time, there are many other ways you can support us! [ONE-TWO SENTENCES ON OTHER WAYS FOR DONORS TO GET INVOLVED]. You can advocate for us by sharing our mission with a family member or friend. Even a quick mention on your social media would mean the world to us.

In times like this, we’re reminded of how interconnected we all are. Thank you for being part of our community. Without you, none of it is possible.

Stay safe and well,

[YOUR NAME]

Sample Donor Update

With the COVID-19 pandemic impacting everyday life, we thank you for your continued support and wish you and your community health and peace. Right now, [ORGANIZATION NAME] faces new challenges. As we adapt to these unprecedented circumstances, we’ll continue to serve our communities as best we can. However, in order to ensure the safety of our community and ourselves, we’ve made necessary modifications to our programming that we’d like to share with you.

• If you’re changing your programming: Given the situation, we’ve made a few important changes to our programs. These changes include [CHANGES TO PROGRAMMING]. We look forward to resuming original programming once it’s safe to do so.
• If you’re expanding your programming: Since our organization’s programming already aligns with COVID-19 relief/recovery efforts, we’re doubling down on this work. We’re doing this by [PROGRAMMING]. We’re grateful to be in a situation that allows us to continue serving our community during this crisis.
• If programming was canceled: Unfortunately, current circumstances have led us to cancel current programs. While much of this is out of our control, we’re dedicated to finding ways to serve our constituents and hope to resume programming soon.

Sample Social Media Posts

1. Highlight your community:

Meet [CONSTITUENT FIRST NAME]. In, [LOCATION], COVID-19 is uprooting [HIS/HER] daily life. [DESCRIBE HOW]. Right now, you can help by making a donation! [LINK TO DONATION FORM]
See an example from GlobalGiving’s Instagram.

>>Tip: Include a photograph of your constituents/community to grab donors’ attention!

2. Acknowledge COVID-19:

We are in uncharted waters. COVID-19 is present nearly everywhere, and our community is no exception. [ORGANIZATION NAME] has an important role to play by continuing operations to best serve our community. Will you join us? Donate now: [LINK TO DONATION FORM]
See an example from GlobalGiving’s Instagram.

3. Spread Positivity:

We know that times are tough, but there are still reasons to smile. [REASONS YOU HAVE SMILED RECENTLY]. What made you smile today?
See an example from GlobalGiving’s Instagram.

>>Tip: Include a picture of your constituents/community to grab donors’ attention!

Staying engaged with your network during a crisis is challenging. Remember, be upfront and honest about your needs and responsive to your donor community’s interests and circumstances. Hopefully, these templates make your donor communication during COVID-19 a little easier.