Originally aired on January 22, 2026

A strong donor communications plan is essential to keep supporters engaged, appreciated, and inspired to give — especially heading into a year of financial uncertainty. Yet one study finds that fewer than half of nonprofits have a written annual plan to guide consistent donor outreach. 

Taking time to build a solid foundation now can steady your team, improve results, and help you respond effectively to whatever 2026 may bring. 

So how can you create a donor engagement strategy that provides structure for the year while still giving you room to pivot if conditions change? 

Join us for this 75-minute webinar to learn from two nonprofit leaders with deep experience running communications at both small and large organizations.  They’ll explain how to build a practical plan for the next 12 months, including real-world strategies for reaching donors with clarity and purpose. 

You’ll learn: 

• Simple processes to stay organized and communicate consistently — even as a team of one 

• Tips and low-cost tools to streamline planning and stay on schedule throughout the year 

• Strategies for setting, measuring, and hitting your goals for 2026 

Plus, you’ll get planning templates and tips for using AI responsibly to save time and strengthen your communications throughout the year. 

Speakers

Sabrina W. Horton
Senior Vice President of Partnership Engagement
Schott Foundation for Public Education

Shea Wylen
Communications Specialist
Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center

Host

Lisa Schohl
Contributing Writer and Editor, Special Projects
Chronicle of Philanthropy

At the Chronicle of Philanthropy, we strive to host accessible and inclusive events. This session includes live captioning and ASL interpretation.

To register on behalf of another person, group, international registrations or request other accommodations, please contact events@philanthropy.com (recommended) or 571-540-8070 and include the name of the webinar, billing address, and attendee information. For additional questions, please visit our FAQ page. 

This webinar is worth 1.25 CFRE credits.