Sustaining (Recurring) Gifts
Sustaining gifts, also known as recurring gifts, are donations made at regular intervals, allowing supporters to provide ongoing financial support to your organization. This giving model is increasingly popular because it offers donors flexibility and helps organizations build predictable revenue streams to support their missions.
Offer Sustaining Gifts
To offer this option, a donation form must use one of the following patterns:
Flexible Sustainer Donation Level: Donors give a specific amount over a set period, ending on a specific date.
Flexible Designated Giving Donation Level: Donors give a specific amount over a set period, designating a specific entity as the beneficiary.
Forever Sustainer Donation Level: Donors give a specific amount with no end date.
Installment Plan Donation Level: Donors specify a total gift amount and arrange equal payments toward that amount.
When donors set up a sustaining gift, they agree to a payment schedule—such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. Payments are processed automatically, and donors receive confirmation emails and thank-you messages for each transaction. The system tracks the total commitment, upcoming payments, and provides options for donors to manage their gifts.
Sustaining Gifts donor self-service
Donors can manage their sustaining gifts through a self-service portal, where they can:
Update billing information
Change the gift amount or payment date
Skip or discontinue payments
View their giving history and receipts
Benefits of Sustaining Gifts
For Donors: Convenience, flexibility, and the satisfaction of making a lasting impact.
For Organizations: Reliable income, improved donor retention, and streamlined payment processing.
Getting started with Sustaining Gifts
To offer sustaining gifts, configure your donation forms to include recurring gift options. Provide clear instructions and support for donors to set up and manage their gifts. For more details, see Create a Donation Form and Gift Service Center.