As 2023 comes to a close, we are thankful for the opportunities we've had to work with so many amazing philanthropic organizations. This year, we've seen trends continue to move towards the increased use of digital and hybrid donor recognition walls and newer paths being forged with a focus on non-traditional donor sculptures. We can't help but be excited for what 2024 and beyond will hold for donor recognition.

We believe an essential piece of a collaborative partnership is the sharing of knowledge. When we come together and learn from each other, there are no obstacles we can't overcome. We are committed to consistently sharing our insights with you, drawing from the knowledge acquired through our collaborative experiences.

Here is a recap of our Top 5 most-read donor recognition insight blog articles of 2023.

"Harnessing the Power of Digital Donor Recognition Walls"

This blog post delves into the evolving landscape of donor recognition strategies, emphasizing the need for adaptation in today's digital era. In it, we explore the transformative benefits of incorporating dynamic visuals, such as videos, into donor recognition displays to create a more engaging and emotionally resonant experience. The post also advocates a hybrid approach, combining physical and digital elements to future-proof donor recognition strategies. Ultimately, the blog post underscores how embracing digital technology can revolutionize donor recognition, inspiring continued support and cultivating a culture of philanthropy.

‍Read the full blog post here.

‍

"Using Naming Opportunities to Achieve Fundraising Success"

This blog post emphasizes the pivotal role of managing and promoting donor-named spaces and opportunities in achieving successful campaign fundraising using Giftmap. Giftmap is a dynamic data and mapping tool designed to efficiently organize and present current named spaces and available opportunities. Giftmap enables organizations to tap into the full potential of fundraising efforts, streamline processes, engage donors effectively, and showcase the lasting impact of contributions. Giftmap is a transformative tool for organizations to embrace the future of fundraising and unlock their full potential.

‍Read the full blog post here.

‍

"50+ Examples of Donor Recognition and Success Stories"

In this blog post, we emphasize the importance of reinforcing an organization's connection with its donors. PDG makes a commitment to helping organizations create deep, meaningful, and long-term relationships with donors to advance fundraising efforts through various forms of recognition, ranging from basic tasks handled in-house to more complex projects like hybrid donor walls and recognition plaque systems requiring professional design studio expertise. We invite you to explore our gallery and work pages for over 50 examples of diverse projects, showcasing our commitment to donor recognition, client satisfaction, promoting philanthropic culture, and connecting donors with the impact of their giving.

‍Read the full blog post here.

‍

"Thinking Beyond the Wall": Exploring Donor Recognition"

In this blog post, we take a closer look at donor recognition walls, their significance to an organization’s culture of philanthropy, the value of placemaking, and the importance of "thinking beyond the wall" with non-traditional donor recognition sculptures. We explore how these displays of gratitude celebrate not only financial contributions but also shared values and goals, inspiring community engagement and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. Placemaking and design are highlighted as essential elements in telling a compelling story and enhancing the emotional connection between donors and the organization's cause. Donor walls are bridges that connect the past, present, and future. They embody the heart of philanthropy and human connection, reminding us that every act of giving, regardless of its scale, leaves an indelible mark on the world.

‍Read the full blog post here.

‍

"Adapting Donor Recognition for the Digital Age"

In this blog we address common problems faced by donor relations professionals. We underscore the challenges of maintaining donor visibility and engagement in the digital age dominated by screen-based interactions. The post emphasizes the need to combine the strengths of successful static recognition displays with best practices for digital displays to thrive in this environment. The blog discusses the drawbacks of poorly designed, static recognition displays and highlights the unique impact of a well-crafted hybrid donor wall, emphasizing the importance of design and materials to create an artful and enduring presence. We explore how video enhances donor experiences, showcases a unique culture of philanthropy, diversifies donor recognition beyond lists, simplifies updates through our CMS, Appellō, and provides a better return on investment for stewardship efforts. ‍

Read the full blog post here.

As we reflect on our most-read blog articles of 2023, spanning topics from harnessing the power of digital to exploring unconventional methods of recognition, we remain dedicated to fostering a culture of philanthropy, strengthened by the stories we tell and the connections we forge.

Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, the landscape of donor recognition holds exciting possibilities. Together, let us anticipate the unfolding chapters in donor recognition, confident that by embracing innovation and learning from each other, there are no limits to what we can achieve.

‍