What Motivates a Donor: Insights from Do More 24 DE
During Do More 24 DE, thousands of people across Delaware and the world come together for one day with a shared purpose: to support the causes and communities they care about. For 24 hours, generosity becomes a shared language across Delaware.
But what truly motivates someone to give?
Following this year’s campaign, a donor survey generated 7,729 responses, offering a meaningful look at why people choose to support nonprofits during Delaware’s largest day of giving. While every donor has a unique story, several themes emerged clearly.
Giving Is Personal and Meaningful
For many donors, giving begins with a personal connection to a nonprofit or mission. Some were inspired by a loved one, family member, or friend involved with the cause, while others chose to support nonprofits that had directly impacted their own lives. “A lovely master gardener friend is very passionate about bees & pollinators, and so am I!” said one donor to Lewes Beekeeping Club.
Many donors also mentioned loved ones when asked why they gave. For them, donating was a way to celebrate lives, honor memories, preserve legacies, and turn remembrance into action.
More than a transaction, giving becomes an expression of gratitude, loyalty, love, and shared values.
Giving Strengthens Community
One of the strongest messages from the survey was a desire to help Delaware communities thrive. Donors consistently referenced supporting local families, improving neighborhoods, helping children succeed, protecting vulnerable populations, and creating opportunities. “As a retired educator, supporting organizations that support our youth is important to me,” mentioned one donor to A Better Chance for Our Children. Overall, donors were driven by the belief that their gift could make a real difference right here in Delaware.
More than a Donation
For many participants, the act of giving was not about the size of the donation. It was about joining thousands of others in a collective moment of generosity. Do More 24 DE creates energy, momentum, and visibility for nonprofits across the state. It reminds donors that even a small gift, when combined with others, can have a powerful impact. Every contribution tells a story. It reflects what people care about most: education, health, housing, the arts, animals, equity, environment, and stronger communities. Do More 24 DE does more than raise funds. It amplifies nonprofit voices, builds community connections, and inspires people to take action.
Join the Giving Movement
If you’re interested in supporting Delaware nonprofits, consider donating to a cause you care about on the DE Gives site. Join us for Do More 24 DE next year! We’ll want to hear your giving story.