The Cost of Not Thanking Well

This week, I had the chance to reconnect with a good friend—someone I’ve known for more than a dozen years. From the beginning, he has stood out not just for his success, but for his extraordinary generosity. Over the years, he has quietly and consistently supported causes and individuals with a spirit of philanthropy that is both rare and deeply inspiring.

He’s given so much to so many, often without fanfare or expectation of recognition. His generosity has always been rooted in a sincere desire to help others and make the world a better place. And yet, like all of us, he’s human.

As we talked, he admitted something that really stuck with me. Despite his selfless giving, it still stings when people don’t take the time to say thank you. He’s not looking for a grand gesture or a public display of gratitude—just a simple acknowledgment that his gift made a difference.

What frustrates him isn’t the lack of praise. It’s the lack of basic human decency in not saying, “Thank you.” He put it plainly: “Their thanks should make it impossible for me to not give. Instead, by not thanking me, they make it very easy for me to stop giving.”

That’s a powerful insight. In any relationship—whether it’s in business, friendship, or philanthropy—gratitude matters. It’s not a formality; it’s the foundation of trust and continuity. Too often, people treat donations like one-off transactions, not realizing that every gift is the beginning of a relationship, not the end of a deal.

The truth is, if you want repeat donors, you need to treat them like partners. You need to show them that their contribution is not only valued but essential—and that you don’t take their support for granted.

And here’s the kicker: the return on investment for a handwritten thank-you note is off the charts. It costs less than a dollar to send. It takes just a minute to write. But its impact is lasting. That small gesture can turn a one-time donor into a lifelong supporter.

It’s a lesson worth remembering—for nonprofits, for businesses, and for all of us. Never underestimate the power of gratitude. It might just be the most valuable investment you can make. #Fundraise4U