Hey Reader,

In 2019, I attended an event where I witnessed data collection done right.

No tech overwhelm. No friction. Efficient.

One person greeted everyone who walked in, while two iPads sat on the check-in table, connected to a small printer.

When my turn came, I entered my name - I tapped a box to confirm my attendance.

My details showed my role, table assignment, and the company I represented.

A welcome message appeared.

The printer produced a professional name badge instantly.

When the next person, a first-time attendee, stepped up, the system handled that too.

Registered easily with a few clicks. Simple.

In today’s edition of the Social Profit Stack, I’ll share how simple data collection can help foster new relationships and build authority in your community. The best part? It will also lead to deeper engagement and stronger fundraising results.

Simple digital strategy

I’m always recommending to my clients: collect the data!

Sure, I get a few stunned looks followed by questions on how to do it.

When you collect data, it:

- Creates positive first impressions (When it’s clunky, people feel it. When it’s quick and seamless, they remember it.)

- Supports meaningful follow-up

- Reveals participation trends

- Enables outreach

- Transforms thinking from guessing to connecting

Most people treat data collection as an afterthought. However, a data-first approach can give you a leg up when initiating your next donor relationship.

Remember that the simple moments make a supporter’s experience feel intentional.

Check out these five simple systems to collect donor data that can support your mission, along with ways to connect each to your database (CRM):

Event Check-In System

Set up a tablet with a pre-loaded list for returning guests and a quick form for newcomers. Recommended tools include Google Forms, Tally, or Eventbrite. Connect them to your CRM using Zapier or direct integrations. Tip: Collect one piece of “connection data” (birthday month, favourite cause area, etc.).

Post-Event Feedback Loop

Send a 1–2-question follow-up within 24 hours, asking one question like, “What was the most memorable moment for you?” Recommended tools include Google Forms or TallyForms. Create interest tags to personalize future communications. Ensure your CRM connects to profiles via Zapier or export/upload them as CSV. Tip: - Include a clear next step (upcoming event, volunteer opportunity).

Email Preference Center

Create a preferences page in your email platform. Recommended tools include MailChimp, Kit, or Constant Contact. Connect your CRM to your email marketing tool. Tip: Set up a monthly export of preference data to update contact records and segment communications.

Donor Intake Form

Add one custom question, such as ‘What inspired your gift?’ to your donation platform. Recommended tools may include Givebutter, FundraiseUp, or DonorBox. Connect your CRM using native integrations like Zapier or manually import the collected data. Tip: Create automated “thank you” notes based on motivation to deepen engagement.

Volunteer Tagging System

Allow volunteers to indicate role interests and professional skills. Tools like Airtable or Google Forms - CRM connection can help sync through integrations or CSV import. Tip: Tag volunteers with skills that match upcoming needs and create targeted outreach lists.

Start small, think big

The key to successful data collection is making it simple for supporters to share and effortless for your team to use what you learn.

Start your action plan today:

1. Choose one strategy from the list above
2. Implement it within the next 30 days
3. Use the insights to personalize your communication

That data you collect today will transform donor relationships and continue building future opportunities.

Keep in mind that the best data collection doesn’t feel like data collection—it is the beginning of a meaningful conversation.

Which strategy will you start with first? Get in touch! I'd be happy to guide you in your choice. 💌

Link 💜

30 Days of Growth. 30 Ways to Grow Your Newsletter. I've been following Chenell Basilio for a few years now, and she always packs the best content about newsletters. This month, she shares the best growth levers with proof from those who've done it. Sign up here. She's only on day 12. Lots more to come!

Ever thought about adding a PS to your emails? Amanda Smith, Fundraising Strategist, analyzed 200 fundraising letters. The ones without a P.S. had a 0.8% response rate. The letters with a strategic P.S. had a 3.2% response rate. Check out her unofficial case study.​

Speaking of events, this application helps you set up an event page, invite friends, and sell tickets. You can even explore other events in your community. Check out luma.