A few days ago I was reading an editorial piece in the Chronicle of Philanthropy about the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The author was criticizing the foundation for focusing their efforts on causes outside of the United States when there is so much need inside their home country. While I can admire the passion of the writer for a cause he champions, I was mostly focused on the idea that giving is such a personal choice. Every gift should be celebrated, and every donor appreciated.

As a nonprofit organization, it is important to get the word out about your cause. This helps to increase donations, keep your charity afloat and do the most good. However, you’re probably also working with a very limited marketing budget that doesn’t include billboards, television commercials, fancy brochures and pamphlets or website retargeting.