The Most Generous Time of the Year

No time of year inspires more generosity than the holidays. 

Last December alone, DonorsChoose supporters contributed $18 million to classroom projects on the site. And the giving season isn’t unique to DonorsChoose; 30% of all nonprofit giving in the United States happens during the holidays!

When you share about the work you’re doing in your classroom, folks are more likely to hop in and help this time of year. Here are some tips to harness the power of the giving season to help bring your classroom dreams to life!

Word-of-mouth is your most powerful tool.

The holiday season is all about gatherings, whether it’s a party, volunteer meeting, family get-together, or a trip to the grocery store. When folks ask how things are going this year, let them know what you have planned. For example, is your cousin asking about your students over dinner? Share your goals for the year, including your current project.

Give an end-of-year update.

The holidays are a natural time to reach out and share updates from the past year, particularly with people in your life who haven’t heard from you in a while. Tell a great student anecdote, gush about the new instruments you scored for the band, or let them know about the classroom library you hope to expand this year. Whether it’s in a Facebook post, an Instagram story, or your handwritten holiday notes, don’t forget to share the amazing work you do with your students.

Print and share.

During this time of giving, make it easy for people to find your project and get in a festive, charitable mood. We have some great printable materials like flyers that you can post on community bulletin boards and business cards you can give out at events.

Often the biggest hurdle for people who want to help others during the holiday season is finding an opportunity. Let your supporters know how they can make a tangible difference for your students.