DAF donors are your most generous supporters. According to Fidelity’s 2025 Giving Report, they give six times as often as the general population, and their average gift is 25x greater than a one-time donation. 

Because these donors are so loyal and valuable, we’d assume that we’ve perfected the art of engaging them, but the truth is—we can do better.

The messaging tactic we need to quit

We’ve seen this all-too-common DAF solicitation too many times to count:

You’re letting your money just sit in your DAF account. Why don’t you use it now?

You wouldn’t shame your other donors into giving, so why would you take this approach to supporters with DAFs? 

Think about it: A DAF donor takes proactive steps to set up a special account that irrevocably commits their contributed assets to giving back. That donor could have easily left those assets in a savings account or investment portfolio, but instead, they made an effort to utilize a vehicle proven to power their philanthropy. 

A DAF isn’t something a donor is putting off—it’s a conscious decision to take action. The takeaway your donor will glean from that kind of message? Your organization doesn’t understand them. 

10 DAF messaging templates you can use today

Your supporters open DAF accounts for all kinds of reasons. Rather than repeating the same message regarding DAFs, consider diversifying your approach. 

These DAF messaging templates meet your donors where they are. You can use them in emails, on social media, and as idea generators for how you grow your DAF fundraising efforts in the year ahead. We hope they inspire you to reach out to DAF donors in ways that make them feel even more connected to your mission. 

#1. Make a difference: Communicate specific impact

This best practice isn’t exclusive to DAFs but it’s still worth noting. Let your donors know exactly where their DAF funds will go with a description that quantifies their gift.

Your DAF gift makes a difference:

• $500 provides [IMPACT, Ex. beds, toys, and six months of prescription food for 10 cats]

• $250 provides [IMPACT, Ex. toys and three months of prescription food for 5 cats]

• $100 provides [IMPACT, Ex. three months of prescription food for 2 cats]

  
  

#2. Be the hero we need: Communicate urgency

Natural disasters, emergencies, and other sudden needs can quickly mobilize donors—especially those who’ve set aside money in a DAF for this very moment. 

[ORGANIZATION NAME] is providing direct relief to [AFFECTED GROUP], but we need community support to continue. Through your DAF gift, we can meet this moment together. Please consider giving now.

In these instances, adding a DAFpay button to your donation form allows donors to give directly to your organization so your team can receive those funds right away. Learn more about DAFpay. 

#3. Define your legacy: Communicate lasting impact

Let donors know their DAF can be the most treasured heirloom they could ever pass down. Ask donors to list your organization as the beneficiary of their DAF account. 

Create your legacy with [ORGANIZATION NAME]. Dedicate your DAF to funding [SPECIFIC INITIATIVE, Ex. scholarships for underserved youth] and make an impact for generations. 

#4. Double your gift: Communicate value

Energize your DAF donors around your matching gift initiative. Let them know that their DAF can double its impact—and don’t forget to include the matching gift period end date.

[MATCHING DONOR NAME] will match your DAF gift until [END DATE]. Double your impact by giving from your DAF today!

#5. Join us for [EVENT NAME]: Communicate unity

While donors can’t use their DAF to purchase event tickets or place bids at fundraising auctions, they can contribute to your fundraising goal before the big day. Invite them to give via DAF in a quick P.S. below your event invitation as a friendly reminder.

Join us for [EVENT NAME] to benefit [BENEFICIARY].

[EVENT DETAILS]

P.S. Have a DAF? Consider using your donor advised fund now to help us reach our [AMOUNT] fundraising goal. 

#6. Give in seconds: Communicate ease

Until recently, DAF donors were always required to recommend a grant from their DAF account to a DAF manager and wait weeks for the DAF to release funds to the organization. Now, organizations can add a DAFpay button to their donation forms. DAF pay allows donors to give directly from their DAF accounts quickly and easily—no middle person required.

Make an instant impact with your DAF. Now, you can give directly from your DAF to [ORG NAME] in just 3 clicks using the DAFpay button.

#7. You can help us make it: Communicate goals

When it comes to your fundraising goals, DAF donors have the power to take you over the finish line. Motivate them to do just that with targeted messaging.

We’re almost there! [ORGANIZATION NAME] is just [AMOUNT] away from [SPECIFIC GOAL, Ex. our goal of funding our shelter expansion]. Your DAF can help us close the gap. Consider joining us in [OUTCOME, Ex. providing critical housing services to families in need in our community].

#8. Change lives: Communicate pictures of success

Knowing who a DAF gift can help is everything. Share (and show) the incredible outcomes your organization can achieve for those in need with donors’ support.

Your DAF gift creates life-changing opportunities—[BRIEF EXAMPLE, Ex. like job training for returning citizens that led to Maria’s new supervisor position and Ben’s paid internship]. Support [PROGRAM NAME] to be a part of more stories like theirs.

#9. Celebrate the season: Communicate joy

The holidays are a time of year when we reflect on our blessings and give back with appreciation. Invite your donors to consider their DAF the perfect way to pay it forward.

Celebrate [HOLIDAY/SEASON] by supporting [ORGANIZATION NAME]! Your DAF gift can bring [SPECIFIC IMPACT, Ex. warm, healthy meals to those who need it most]. Spread holiday joy by donating today.

#10. Power the future: Communicate possibilities 

The world is changing at a rapid pace, and through your organization, donors can be a part of positive shifts. Welcome them to join your team in exploring the possible through their DAF donation. 

Your DAF can drive innovation at [ORGANIZATION NAME]. Support [NEW INITIATIVE, Ex. sustainable energy] with your gift and join us in building a brighter future.

Pair your messages with the easiest way to receive DAF gifts

No matter how you solicit DAF gifts, it’s important to make the next step after a donor decides to give as seamlessly as possible. With DAFpay, donors can give directly to your organization in just a few clicks. Watch how DAFpay can transform the donor experience at your organization: