The final stretch of the year is more than a sprint to December 31—it is a chance to reinforce relationships, renew confidence, increase revenue and set the tone for what comes next. Whether your focus is major gifts, annual giving or campaign momentum, this is the moment to lead with clarity and purpose.

Here are ten ways to make it count:

1. Prioritize your top donors. Schedule personal calls or visits to thank, update and strengthen connection.
2. Finalize pledges and proposals. Close open conversations while enthusiasm and focus remain high.
3. Promote wise giving. Encourage gifts of appreciated stock and other assets, donor-advised fund grants and IRA distributions. With the charitable deduction threshold set to change in 2026, many donors may find it advantageous to complete significant gifts before year-end 2025.
4. Highlight matching opportunities. Remind donors that many employers will double their impact before year-end.
5. Refine your message. Make sure every appeal and update reflects current impact and vision, showing momentum as you enter 2026.
6. Streamline the giving experience. Test your online form and giving page on phones and tablets to remove friction.
7. Show gratitude with intention. Respond quickly and personally—specific thanks builds lasting trust. Use the holidays as a season to thank all donors, including members of your legacy giving society.
8. Engage your board and ambassadors. Provide them with concise talking points and a short list of personal outreach calls.
9. Celebrate visible progress. Share updates that affirm momentum and reinforce confidence.
10. Prepare for January now. Schedule stewardship touchpoints and early-year planning sessions before the holidays.

Year-end success is built on clarity, discipline and gratitude, the same qualities that sustain generosity all year long. Lead with those and you will start the new year already moving forward.