When money gets tight, it’s easy to focus on who might write a big check. But here’s the real question: What if your best move right now isn’t another ask, but stronger stewardship?

Nonprofits across the U.S. are under political and financial pressure, and the old myth that the wealthy will “save” us persists. But that myth has always been dangerous.

While high-net-worth individuals get most of the headlines, middle-income Americans — earning between $50,000 and $200,000 — give generously and consistently, making up a vital portion of total individual giving. In other words, it’s everyday people — not billionaires — who keep this sector moving. And it’s community, not capital, that fuels true impact.

Yes, wealthy donors are part of the picture. But let’s be honest: when gifts are tied to market performance or when donor-advised funds sit untouched while communities struggle, that’s not generosity in action — it’s a pause when people need momentum.

Now’s the time to redistribute, not hoard.

Now’s the time to build trust, not extract value.

Now’s the time to honor every gift and every giver — because all contributions matter.

Now’s the time to show up — not hedge bets.

Strong, sustained relationships rooted in mutual respect are more powerful than unpredictable windfalls. Stewardship is how we build a resilient, values-aligned base that shows up — not just when asked, but because they believe in the work. 

We can’t find our way out of this moment with saviorism, scarcity, or silence. We can only move forward by centering community, shifting power, and treating every donor, volunteer, and partner as a co-creator in justice.

Stewardship is the Strategy, Not the Follow-Up

Stewardship isn’t about a fancier thank-you card. It’s about shifting your culture — from chasing money to building relationships. It’s about:

• Trust-building: People need to know they matter — not just their money.
• Loyalty: The best donors and volunteers are the ones who stick around — especially when things get hard.
• Community power: A base of local, consistent support is more reliable than a “maybe” from a foundation or a fund manager.

5 Ways to Implement Stewardship That Matters

1. Track more than money
   Who’s showing up — at events, in your inbox, on your volunteer list — not just who gave the most.  Who’s offering insight, support, and labor? Measure that.
2. Make it personal
   A quick call, voice memo, or handwritten note — especially from a board member or volunteer — says “you matter” more powerfully than any polished annual report ever could.
3. Celebrate small gifts
   Normalize stories like, “This $15 came from someone who gives every month and volunteers at our events.”
4. Center your volunteers
   Volunteers give their time, skills, networks — and often money too. Treat them like essential members of the team because they are.
5. Stay in touch when you’re not asking
   Offer real updates, behind-the-scenes wins, and honest reflections. Transparency builds trust — and trust builds movements.

This Is Bigger Than Fundraising

Nonprofits are being questioned, devalued, and politically targeted — even as we fill gaps in healthcare, education, and housing. We don’t have the luxury of playing small.  

This isn’t just about donor retention. It’s about solidarity, equity, and belonging.

This moment calls for a shift in how we build relationships, share power, and sustain change. So instead of asking who might save us, let’s ask: who’s already showing up — and how do we show up for them?

Let’s stop chasing myths. Let’s start building power.