Inspiring donors: Examples are powerful!

A message from the CICF Collaborative, including Central Indiana Community Foundation, Hamilton County Community Foundation, IMPACT Central Indiana, the Indianapolis Foundation, and Women’s Foundation of Indiana 

By Diana Coyle, CICF Director of Nonprofit Services and Sustainability 

2026 comes with its share of challenges, but there are still plenty of reasons to feel optimistic—50 of them. High-profile donors who continue to support their favorite causes offer a powerful reminder: generosity remains strong, even in uncertain times. 

Recent headlines featuring the nation’s top philanthropists—including those on the “Philanthropy 50” list—highlight giving across sectors like education, public health, the arts, and climate.  

But they are not the whole story. For nonprofits, their real value lies in what they inspire. These gifts act as catalysts—sparks that can encourage broader participation in giving at every level. 

The ripple effect of generosity 

Major donors help set the tone. When they publicly commit significant resources, they send a clear signal: this work matters, and change is possible. 

Your donors are paying attention. Even if they cannot give at the same level, they take cues from what they see. Public generosity reinforces that philanthropy is meaningful and normal—and it validates their own desire to give. 

This is where your messaging matters, and why you should focus on telling your donor story not just in dollars but in impact, inspiration, and donor values alignment to your mission.  

Bridge inspiration to action 

A multimillion-dollar gift may feel out of reach, but the motivation behind it—making a difference—is universal. Your role is to make that connection clear and accessible. 

Reinforce simple, consistent messages: 

• Every donor plays a role  

• Collective giving drives impact  

• Participation matters as much as capacity 

When donors see themselves as part of something bigger, they are more likely to engage—and stay engaged. Think about how you are highlight each audience of donors in your story from first time gifts to legacy givers. Why did they choose to give today and why do they continue to give? 

Make every gift visible and meaningful 

During uncertain times, some donors hesitate. They may question whether a smaller gift matters. 

Be clear that it does. This is especially important in light of the new deduction for non-itemizers ($1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint filers). 

A $25 gift, $100 gift, a $1,000 gift, and a $1 million gift all move your mission forward in different ways. When you show tangible outcomes at different giving levels, you help donors see where they fit.  

How will the $75 gift help you achieve your mission? Will it provide 1-week of lunch for a camper this summer, does it cover new books for a dozen children in the community, will it provide a music session for 25 people in a memory care facility? Your donors know your mission, help them see how their support allows you to execute your work.  

Lead with gratitude and inclusion 

Inspiration works best when paired with appreciation. Celebrate generosity in all its forms, not just major gifts, but also the consistent, everyday support. 

The headlines may spotlight 50 major donors, but your impact depends on the many people who choose to give in ways that are meaningful to them. When you connect inspiration with accessibility, you create the conditions for generosity to grow—no matter what the year brings. 

If you’d like help connecting powerful asks to your donor audiences,leading to stronger donor engagement and aligning giving across all levels of support, the CICF Collaborative team is here to assist you.   

About the author 

Diana Coyle, director of nonprofit services and sustainability, is dedicated to helping Central Indiana nonprofits access the tools, knowledge, and relationships they need to thrive. In collaboration with her CICF colleagues she supports CICF fundholders offering professional development, resources, and technical assistance that strengthen organizations and their leaders. With more than 15 years of experience in leadership and community engagement, she is committed to fostering connections that amplify the missions of nonprofits and create lasting impact across the region.

About the CICF Collaborative 

CICF Collaborative is a partnership of philanthropic organizations working together to strengthen communities across the region. Each entity within the CICF Collaborative (including the cornerstone entities, Central Indiana Community Foundation, Hamilton County Community Foundation, IMPACT Central Indiana, the Indianapolis Foundation, and Women’s Foundation of Indiana) brings deep knowledge, strong relationships, and its own individual, focused mission. The CICF Collaborative unites the entities by providing shared services, allowing the entities to operate more efficiently and effectively. By leveraging what we each do best, we’re able to better serve our communities and create more lasting impact, together. Learn more »