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Year-End Message from Copley Raff

We’re going to try to put a positive spin on what we think nonprofit organizations can expect for 2026 and what they should consider doing about it.

The stage is set for an economy that, at best, will be stagnant. The public’s need for help from human service organizations, especially in areas such as food insecurity, behavioral health, housing, education, and other basic human needs, will increase. Philanthropists are aware of this and have already begun to shift their giving priorities in this direction. At the same time, engagement with cultural institutions may wane.

Wealth polarization will continue to grow, and attrition among smaller donors is likely to follow its historical trend, making it more critical than ever to work closely with your larger donors. (Those giving $50,000represented just 0.4% of all donors, yet contribute more than half of all dollars raised. Source)

All this to say, and to recommend, that fundraisers not lose sight of fundraising fundamentals. Communicate with your donors, warts and all. Let them know you are listening to them, and ask them to listen to you as you describe your organization’s value and appeal for their support. And be ever-ready to respond granularly when donors want to help you in a transformational way. Those donors are out there, and will step up… when asked.

We continue to believe in the compassion and generosity of the American people, even during challenging times.

The Copley Raff team wishes you happiness, community, and success in 2026.

Happy New Year!