What can we learn from a child about donor cultivation?

In honor of my niece Grace’s, first day of kindergarten here is an updated version of a previous post. Two years ago when my nephew Stuart and niece Grace moved away from Minnesota to Florida, I was determined to keep in touch with them. I didn’t want them to forget “Auntie Lori”. They continue to teach me things about staying in touch with people who matter. Directly from Stuart and Grace ages 8 and 5: Here are a few great tips for important people we want to stay connected to, especially our donors and volunteers.

1. Don’t send too many emails. I’ve been told by Stuart that he has “too much to do” to read an email message every day. About one a month is enough for him.
2. As often as possible, include a photo in my email. Not surprisingly, Grace, age 5, will barely read or look at an email that doesn’t have a photo in it. When it has a photo of something interesting she’s all over it and in fact wants to share it with others.
3. Only use the telephone for special meaningful conversations. Both Stuart and Grace have been known to say, “Auntie, Why are you calling? You know I don’t like to talk on the telephone.” From their honest comments I learned to utilize phone calls for important days when there is something they have to share OR when I have a short exciting bit of information to tell them.
4. Send snail mail sometimes, especially if it’s personalized. The kids get very excited when they check the mail box and there is a fun envelope or package addressed just to them. Come to think about it, so do I.
5. In-person visits are the very best way to communicate. A few times I year I make the trip to Florida to visit with Grace and her brother Stuart. The few weeks before the visit we talk about what we’ll do together, plan for the trip in our phone and email communication and we make it an interesting visit when we get together.
6. Overall, don’t try to communicate too often and keep it fun. Too much only becomes something to endure because “Mom said so”. Less is more and can cause a yearning for more information when the previous call, email or letter was so interesting.

Despite a few mishaps and too frequent communication on my part, I am happy to say, Grace and Stuart and I are as connected as ever. I’m grateful for them taking time to teach me these lessons. I recommend you keep them in mind with your important people.