Friday, June 5, 2026· No. 3· Apollo Advancement
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Pronouncement No. 3

What Donors (Really) Want

Penelope Burk asked thousands of donors what would make them give again. Their answer costs nothing.

Penelope Burk spent years asking donors what would persuade them to give again, and to give more.

They told her, with unambiguous clarity, that they want three things:

1. A prompt, personal thank you.

2. Confirmation their gift went where they intended.

3. Proof of what it changed, before they are asked again.

No tote bag. No fridge magnet. No gala. No donor wall.

Donors are not asking to be impressed. They are asking to be noticed. Be the organization that notices.

John Jalsevac, PhD
Written by John Jalsevac, PhD Fundraising consultant and founder of Apollo Advancement.
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