In just 24 hours on UC ANR Giving Day, May 14–15, UC ANR donors contributed nearly $75,000 for UC Cooperative Extension and statewide programs, institutes and research centers.

“This show of support demonstrates the impact UC ANR academics and staff are having in their communities and the value that donors place on our work,” said Emily Delk, director of donor engagement.

An additional $3,000 from the ANR Incentive Fund and the California 4-H Foundation will be distributed for qualifying gifts. These awards energized regional campaigns, inspired participation and helped extend the impact of every contribution.

Top Earning Counties:

1. San Mateo-San Francisco
2. Orange
3. Placer
4. San Diego
5. Santa Barbara

Top Earning Statewide Groups:

1. UC Master Gardeners
2. 4-H
3. UCCE
4. ANR - Area of Greatest Need
5. Research and Extension Centers

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What’s Next? Top 10 Donor Stewardship Tips

Delk encourages everyone to find out what compelled people to donate and to continue to engage donors in UC ANR activities throughout the year. 

To build lasting support, Delk offers her “Top 10 Donor Stewardship Tips”:

1. Thank Donors Promptly

Send a personalized thank-you within 24 to 48 hours of receiving the gift, whenever possible. A quick acknowledgment shows respect and appreciation and reassures donors that their gift was received and valued.

Best practice tips:

• Email immediately, followed by a mailed letter when appropriate
• Use the donor’s name and gift amount
• Reference the purpose of the gift

2. Make the Thank-You Personal

Avoid generic messages. Personal touches significantly improve retention. Even a short thank-you call can dramatically increase donor loyalty.

Examples:

• Handwritten notes
• Phone calls from staff, board members or volunteers
• Personalized video messages

3. Show the Impact of the Gift

Donors want to know what changed because they gave. Focus on results, not just activities.

Provide:

• Stories of people helped
• Program outcomes and milestones
• Photos or short videos