Posted 8/14/22
While working for an organization in a smaller community, I was responsible for gathering resources that helped raise funds in support of events. This not only involved securing sponsorships, but also auction/raffle items to raise money. Nothing special, just something that is typically the responsibility of fundraisers when working on events.
One day, I was walking around town and stopped into a variety of businesses handing out flyers and promoting the event. I walked into one establishment, a gift shop, and asked the owner if he would donate a gift or item for the silent auction at the event. I think because I walked in rather than called on the phone, he agreed to have something ready for me in a few days. He appeared put-out in a way and I am sure he was approached by a variety of organizations as well. After a few days, I walked in and he had it ready. I thanked him and went on my way.
The event went well and his gift was helpful in raising funds. A few days later, I walked in again and asked to see him. He walked out of the back room and looked completely surprised. Obviously I did not want to take much of his time, but I shook his hand and thanked him for the gift, letting him know how well it did. I was ready to walk back out when he stopped me. He said “you know, I get asked so many times for a gift to support an event, and no one ever thanked me, let me know how it did, or if it made a difference, except for maybe a form letter. You are the first one to stop back and I really appreciate it!” I think I was just as surprised by his reaction as he was that I stopped in. It seemed to make his day.
After that one simple gesture of gratitude by stopping in to let him know that he made a difference and that his gift was very much appreciated, he had a gift ready for our events even before I asked him! From the outside, I thought it was no big deal, but then I understood how he could feel taken for granted and unappreciated. I thought it was nothing special to stop in, but to him, it meant a lot. Not only did it help our event, but I am reasonably sure that he spread the word to other businesses, especially in a smaller community. One simple gesture.
Too busy to make that extra effort in gratitude that you think would not matter? Think again. Lesson learned.
(Photo by Ann H. www.pexels.com)