Monthly Giving: A Small Act, A Big Impact

Have you ever considered giving to a cause you care about, but felt a one-time donation wasn’t enough? You’re not alone! Monthly giving, also known as recurring giving, allows you to make a steady, impactful contribution that adds up over time. Here at CICOA Foundation, we rely on the incredible support of our monthly donors to empower older adults, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

Many years ago, I sat in a home in Michigan with a kind woman who had given $25 a month for the past 20 years. I was stunned. She had been so committed, dedicated and active in her giving. She felt deeply connected to our mission but was not able to give a large gift at the time. She decided to give every month that she was able. Her monthly gift had a profound impact.

This inspiring story highlights the power of monthly giving. Even small contributions can make a significant difference when they are given consistently over time. By choosing to support CICOA Foundation through monthly donations, you’re joining a community of dedicated donors who are committed to making a lasting impact.

Why Monthly Donations Make a Difference

In a recent podcast for the Indiana University Fundraising School, guest Abby Jarvis, Head of Content for Neon One, said that donors are choosing automatic monthly gifts more often – recurring giving has increased 127% from 2018 to 2022. There are many benefits to both donors and nonprofits when it comes to monthly giving:

For You, the Donor:

• Spreading out your support: Monthly donations allow you to contribute comfortably within your budget, making a difference every month.
• Long-term impact: Your consistent support provides a stable foundation for the critical services our community members need.
• Flexibility: You can change the amount of your gift at any time or stop whenever you need to.
• Building a deeper connection: Monthly giving fosters a deep, personal relationship with the causes you care about.

For the Nonprofit:

• Predictable income: Recurring donations provide a reliable income stream, allowing us to better budget and plan for the future. In the podcast mentioned above, host Bill Stanczykiewicz said, “Recurring donors stay engaged for an average of eight years, creating a more stable and reliable funding stream for nonprofits.”
• Reduced fundraising costs: Monthly giving is a cost-effective way to raise funds, freeing up resources for our programs.
• Loyal donor base: Monthly donors tend to be highly engaged and loyal supporters, often becoming advocates for our mission or even major donors through planned gifts.

Setting Up Monthly Giving: A Simple Guide

Making a monthly gift to CICOA Foundation is simple and secure. Here’s how:

1. Visit our website: Head over to our “Donate Now” page.
2. Choose monthly giving: Select the “Monthly Donation” option and choose your desired amount.
3. Set up your automatic payment: Securely enter your credit/debit card information and choose your desired start date.

That’s it! Your monthly gift will automatically be processed at your chosen interval, allowing you to focus on what matters most – making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

P.S. Cash is not the only way to give monthly! We can assist you in other ways to give, such as from a donor-advised fund or trust. Contact us to learn more.

The Ripple Effect of Your Monthly Gift

Imagine the impact if just 10 people gave $10 a month. That’s an additional $1,200 a year to support our mission! Now, think about 20 people giving $20, or 10 giving $50. The power of consistent giving adds up quickly, allowing us to reach more individuals and amplify our impact.

Join the Movement – Become a Monthly Donor

Inspired by the story of the woman in Michigan who faithfully gave $25 a month for 20 years, we strive to create a community of dedicated monthly donors. Just like her, your consistent support allows us to fulfill our mission.

Ready to make a lasting impact, one month at a time? Join our community of dedicated monthly donors and help CICOA Foundation provide essential services to older adults, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Start your monthly gift today.

Steve Gerber

Steve Gerber brings experience in pastoral ministry, nonprofit management and fundraising team leadership to his role as CICOA’s chief development officer. Steve is responsible for the agency’s overall fundraising strategy, leading annual campaigns, major gifts, planned giving, grants and special events.

He holds designations for Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy^® (CAP^®), and the executive certificate in religious fundraising. Steve earned a bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Temple University, a master’s degree from Grace Theological Seminary and a master’s in business administration from the University of Phoenix.