To everything there is a season and a cycle of the year. The last time I wrote to you, fall was just beginning here in Minnesota: it was the season of harvest and abundance, a time to focus on the work that lay ahead. That work was to gather, to reap, and you did it admirably.
Now, as snow begins to fall, temperatures dip, and Minnesota’s most generous day falls away behind us, winter is arriving. We’re starting to turn our attention to gratitude and rest. And you, my fellow leaders and fundraisers, deserve every bit of it that you can get.
Here in Minnesota, we make it our business to boost generosity for a few days every November. At the same time, we know that our shared work starts long before—and continues long after—Give to the Max. And while it’s an incredible thing to have an annual giving holiday, we also know that nonprofits and schools work hard each and every day of the year.
Donors may power GTMD through their giving, but it’s you and your missions who lend purpose to their generosity. You and your work are our reason for being. For that, you have my gratitude, and the gratitude of the entire GiveMN team. We see you out there working!
You know better than anyone how we all live our lives in nonprofits—not just as leaders, staff, and volunteers, but as people who make our homes in this community:
- We trust nonprofits to care for and educate our children.
- We depend on them to feed and shelter our neighbors.
- We turn to them when we’re looking for beauty, light, and levity.
In every community across our state, nonprofit and school leaders help our friends, neighbors and loved ones meet basic needs. You find homes for four-legged friends. You improve our lives through art, sports, and parks. Your work enhances the quality of life we enjoy here in Minnesota. And it fosters a community of care that makes our state stronger, more vibrant, and resilient.
"Donors may power GTMD through their giving, but it's you and your missions who lend purpose to their generosity."
Minnesotans are among the most generous people in the nation. But the why behind that giving, and the so-what, that’s you. Your work invites donors into relationship. Your stories compel their giving. Your commitment fuels their generosity—day after day, year after year, for all our benefit.
Minnesota fall is quickly fading, and winter is about to begin. The days are growing shorter, and darker. Yet, patches and pockets of light lead our way. You, my neighbors and friends, are lights in the darkness. You are the trusted messengers who show us what the future can be. You hold our attention and hearts in moments of uncertainty.
As we approach the end of the calendar year, we still have work to do. I know how much the year-end window means for you and your fundraising. As you move through this season, I hope you know how much you are appreciated. I hope you know that you are worthy. And I hope you know how much you and your mission mean to me, to the GiveMN Green Team, and to our neighbors all across the state. Today, tomorrow, and every day from here on out.
Jenna Ray is GiveMN's deputy executive director for community impact.