Author: Michelle Aquino Mooney

THE GRATITUDE ISSUE: Meaningful Ways to Thank Donors

November 26, 2025 No Comments

COVER STORY

We asked, you answered: How do you show donors gratitude? From simple gestures to thoughtful gifts, here’s how savvy fundraisers all over the country are making donors feel like they’re part of the mission—not like part of a checkbook.
Because gratitude isn’t just good manners. It’s not an afterthought. And it’s definitely not something to check off once the gift comes in. Gratitude is a strategy.

Michelle Aquino Mooney

Michelle is a seasoned nonprofit development professional with over a decade of experience in fundraising strategy, donor communications, events, and relationship building. She has designed and managed high-impact campaigns, built strong stewardship programs, and cultivated lasting partnerships to advance mission-driven goals. She is also GIVING magazine’s editorial assistant in charge of Outreach and Research. At Philanthropy.org, she leads content strategy and contributor outreach, ensuring each piece reflects the authenticity and urgency driving today’s philanthropic sector. Michelle began her career at the Michael J. Fox Foundation, where she helped raise over $6 million annually. Since then, she has led development and stewardship initiatives for organizations including buildOn, One Love Foundation, Americares, Second Wind Fund, and Rise Against Suicide. She holds a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management from The New School University.