Reverse the Trend: Motivate More Giving in the Kitsap Region

Recent reports suggest that changes to federal tax policy could reduce charitable giving by as much as $5 to $7 billion annually. While philanthropy has never been driven solely by tax benefits, there is no question that tax incentives influence the timing, structure, and level of donations, especially among higher-income donors.

For our nonprofit partners in the Kitsap region, this projected decline serves as a wake-up call. External economic factors will always shift, but our local commitment to community doesn’t have to. This is an opportunity for us to refocus on what matters most: building strong, lasting relationships with supporters and reinforcing the value of giving at every level.

We want to see our local nonprofits stay resilient. Here is how we can work together to reverse the trend and keep generosity growing right here at home.

Deepen Donor Engagement Through Real Connection

When tax incentives fluctuate, relationships become your most valuable asset. Donors who feel a deep, personal connection to your mission, and who clearly see the impact of their gifts, are far more likely to continue their support regardless of what is happening in D.C.

Consistent communication is the key. We recommend moving away from "transactional" fundraising and toward "relational" storytelling. Instead of only reaching out during peak fundraising seasons, we suggest increasing your touchpoints throughout the year. Share the raw stories of the people you serve. Report on specific outcomes. When you highlight the real-world difference a donor’s gift makes, you reinforce that their contribution is an investment in a better Kitsap, not just a line item on a tax return.

Think about offering behind-the-scenes updates or small, intimate opportunities for donors to see your work in action. These moments build the trust and commitment necessary to weather economic shifts. If you're wondering how to navigate these changing donor landscapes, we have some great insights on what fewer donors mean for your mission.

Leverage the Kitsap Great Give for Collective Impact

One of the most powerful ways to motivate giving in our region is through the Kitsap Great Give. This event is designed to spark a wave of local generosity by showing donors that they aren't giving in a vacuum.

The "Great Give" model proves that collective giving drives real change. When donors see their neighbors, local businesses, and community leaders all participating at once, it creates a sense of momentum that is hard to ignore. It turns individual acts of charity into a massive community movement. We encourage every nonprofit in the Kitsap region to use this event as a springboard to engage new donors and re-energize existing ones. It’s the perfect time to show how a $50 gift, when combined with thousands of others, can solve big problems like housing or food insecurity in our community.

Listen to What Truly Motivates Your Donors

Not all donors are driven by the same factors. While some are influenced by tax policy, many more are motivated by personal experiences, family values, and a desire to see a specific change in the Kitsap region.

We recommend taking the time to truly listen to your supporters. What prompted their very first gift? Which of your programs inspires them the most? Do they prefer hands-on volunteer opportunities or quiet, consistent support?

Simple steps like donor surveys or one-on-one "coffee chats" can yield incredible insights. When you align your messaging with what your donors actually care about, the act of giving feels more meaningful and less like a transaction. For example, if a donor is concerned about the housing imbalance in Kitsap, show them exactly how their gift helps bridge that gap. When philanthropy is personal, it becomes a permanent part of a donor's lifestyle.

Expand Your Base Across Generations

To mitigate the risk of declining gifts from traditional sources, we must broaden our base of support. Younger donors are engaging with philanthropy in growing numbers, often starting with smaller gifts, volunteering, or peer-driven campaigns.

While their giving levels might be modest today, they represent the long-term future of your organization. Focus on creating accessible entry points for these first-time donors. Encourage recurring monthly gifts, which help build a habit of generosity.

Focus on:

• Creating accessible entry points for first-time donors

• Encouraging recurring, smaller gifts to build habits

• Engaging volunteers as future financial supporters

• Building relationships that can grow into major gifts and legacy commitments over time

A diversified donor base—spanning generations, giving levels, and engagement styles—creates stability and reduces reliance on any single group.

Celebrate Generosity Publicly

Inspiration is contagious. When we celebrate the donors who are making a difference, we give others permission to do the same. This doesn't just mean thanking the "Philanthropy 50" at the national level; it means celebrating the everyday heroes in our own backyard.

We invite you to join us at the Kitsap Celebration of Philanthropy on Friday, June 5, 2026.

This event is our way of shining a light on the incredible individuals and businesses that keep our community thriving. It’s a reminder that philanthropy is a normal, celebrated, and vital part of life in the Kitsap region. When donors see their peers being honored, it reinforces a culture of giving that transcends tax law.

Find more details and join the celebration here: KitsapFoundation.org/celebration

Staying Focused on What Endures

Tax laws will change. The economy will fluctuate. But the fundamental reasons people give do not change: they give because they believe in your mission, they trust your leadership, and they want to help their neighbors.

By deepening your relationships, listening to your donors' hearts, and investing in the next generation of supporters, your organization will remain resilient. We are honored to be your partner in this work. Whether you are building an endowment, launching a new campaign, or trying to understand the latest tax shifts, the Kitsap Community Foundation is here for you.

We are committed to helping you increase support for your mission and strengthen our community together. If you have questions about donor engagement, bunching, or legacy giving, please reach out to the KCF team anytime!