Erie Gives Toolkit
Built by The Nonprofit Partnership
Tools, templates, and guidance to help your organization plan smarter, promote stronger, and make the most of Erie Gives.
Erie Gives is an annual community-wide giving event hosted by The Erie Community Foundation (ECF). This event brings our community together for a powerful day of generosity. Donations are processed through ECF and distributed to participating nonprofits, with additional Bonus Bucks added after totals are calculated.
The Nonprofit Partnership is proud to partner with ECF and Erie Gives to support participating nonprofits by providing practical tools, education, and marketing resources templates to strengthen your campaign and increase your impact.
Erie Gives Timeline
Stay on track with key dates, deadlines, and campaign milestones leading up to Erie Gives.
Monday, March 2
Registration is open! Nonprofits may register at ErieGives.org.
Monday, June 8
The deadline to register if a nonprofit would like to be listed in the Erie Gives Guide.
Monday, June 15
The Foundation will now accept ALL checks and stock gifts.
Friday, July 10
The FINAL deadline to register a nonprofit for Erie Gives 2026.
Sunday, July 26
Erie Gives Guide showcased in Erie Times. Last day to customize profile at ErieGives.org.
Tuesday, August 4
One week until Erie Gives! Last day to receive check donations.
Tuesday, August 11
ERIE GIVES 2026! Online donations accepted from midnight to midnight. Phone bank available from 8 AM-8 PM.
Click here to download a printable timeline.
Nonprofit Readiness Checklist
1. Confirm Eligibility & Registration Readiness
- Confirm your organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Erie County
- Confirm NPP membership and/or an ECF Agency Endowment
- Identify who will complete Erie Gives registration
- Gather required information (EIN, contacts, budget, mission summary)
2. Review Official Erie Gives Information
- Read current Erie Gives FAQs and guidelines
- Understand donation minimums, bonus funds, and donor options
- Know how donors can give (online, check, etc.)
- Be prepared to answer basic donor questions
- Confirm your organization has filed a
BCO-10 with the PA Department of State if you plan to raise over $25,000 or have a compensated individual soliciting contributions on your behalf
3. Set a Clear Erie Gives Goal
- Decide whether funds will support general operations or a specific project
- Set a realistic fundraising goal based on past data and capacity
- Draft a one-sentence Erie Gives message explaining your “why”
4. Prepare Your Erie Gives Profile
- Review and update your organizational description
- Upload a current logo and photos
- Add donation levels or impact examples (if applicable)
- Confirm all profile information is accurate before launch
5. Build Your Internal Erie Gives Team
- Identify staff leads and internal roles
- Engage your board with clear expectations (give, share, thank)
- Identify volunteers or ambassadors who can help spread the word
6. Plan How You’ll Spread the Word
- Decide how you’ll communicate (email, social media, website, in-person)
- Draft Erie Gives-specific messaging in advance
- Schedule key outreach before and during Erie Gives
- Prepare simple talking points for staff, board, and volunteers
7. Leverage Peer-to-Peer Support
- Identify supporters who could fundraise or advocate on your behalf
- Share clear instructions or sample messaging
- Encourage authentic, personal outreach
8. Follow Erie Gives Best Practices
- Use Erie Gives as a fundraising tool—not for payments or raffles
- Honor donor intent for designated gifts
- Avoid creating incentives that conflict with charitable giving rules
- Ask questions if you’re unsure about a planned activity
9. Stay Engaged on Erie Gives Day
- Share reminders on the morning of Erie Gives
- Post updates and thank-yous throughout the day
- Monitor messages and comments
- Celebrate milestones and community support
10. Thank Donors & Reflect After Erie Gives
- Thank donors promptly and personally
- Download and review donor information when available
- Share impact and gratitude publicly
- Reflect on what worked and what you’ll do differently next year
1. Confirm Eligibility & Registration Readiness
- Confirm your organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Erie County
- Confirm NPP membership and/or an ECF Agency Endowment
- Identify who will complete Erie Gives registration
- Gather required information (EIN, contacts, budget, mission summary)
2. Review Official Erie Gives Information
- Read current Erie Gives FAQs and guidelines
- Understand donation minimums, bonus funds, and donor options
- Know how donors can give (online, check, etc.)
- Be prepared to answer basic donor questions
3. Set a Clear Erie Gives Goal
- Decide whether funds will support general operations or a specific project
- Set a realistic fundraising goal based on past data and capacity
- Draft a one-sentence Erie Gives message explaining your “why”
4. Prepare Your Erie Gives Profile
- Review and update your organizational description
- Upload a current logo and photos
- Add donation levels or impact examples (if applicable)
- Confirm all profile information is accurate before launch
5. Build Your Internal Erie Gives Team
- Identify staff leads and internal roles
- Engage your board with clear expectations (give, share, thank)
- Identify volunteers or ambassadors who can help spread the word
6. Plan How You’ll Spread the Word
- Decide how you’ll communicate (email, social media, website, in-person)
- Draft Erie Gives-specific messaging in advance
- Schedule key outreach before and during Erie Gives
- Prepare simple talking points for staff, board, and volunteers
7. Leverage Peer-to-Peer Support
- Identify supporters who could fundraise or advocate on your behalf
- Share clear instructions or sample messaging
- Encourage authentic, personal outreach
8. Follow Erie Gives Best Practices
- Use Erie Gives as a fundraising tool—not for payments or raffles
- Honor donor intent for designated gifts
- Avoid creating incentives that conflict with charitable giving rules
- Ask questions if you’re unsure about a planned activity
9. Stay Engaged on Erie Gives Day
- Share reminders on the morning of Erie Gives
- Post updates and thank-yous throughout the day
- Monitor messages and comments
- Celebrate milestones and community support
10. Thank Donors & Reflect After Erie Gives
- Thank donors promptly and personally
- Download and review donor information when available
- Share impact and gratitude publicly
- Reflect on what worked and what you’ll do differently next year
Erie Gives (and Beyond) Learning
Browse upcoming events to register for 10 Minute Takes and Erie Gives training sessions,
and explore additional opportunities to strengthen your Erie Gives strategy and fundraising knowledge.
Guides
Browse helpful resources designed to answer common questions and support both nonprofits and donors throughout Erie Gives.
Click on each guide to view full content.
Communications & Marketing Resources
Logos & Graphics
Social Media
Email Communications
Canva Templates
Download official Erie Gives branding assets to use in your promotional materials.
Resources to help you promote your campaign across social platforms with confidence.
Social Media Captions
Ready-to-use caption ideas for your Erie Gives posts.
Before Erie Gives: Build Awareness & Excitement
Save the Date
📅 Save the date! Erie Gives is August 11, and [organization name] is proud to participate! This one-day giving event helps fuel the work we do every day to [brief mission or program impact]. We hope you’ll follow our mission and consider supporting our work on giving day. Learn more at ErieGives.org. #ErieGives2026
Why We Participate
Erie Gives is more than a fundraiser — it’s a chance to spotlight the impact of [organization name] and the [people, animals, etc] we serve. On August 11, your support helps us [specific outcome or service], strengthening our community in meaningful ways. Every gift, big or small, plays a role in moving our mission forward. Learn more at ErieGives.org. #ErieGives2026
Countdown
⏰ The countdown is on! Only [X] days until Erie Gives on August 11. Stay tuned to see how your support makes a difference. Check out our profile at [directly link your Erie Gives profile]. #ErieGives2026
Impact Teaser
What happens when our community comes together to give? On August 11, Erie Gives helps organizations like [organization name] continue [program or service] and reach [who you serve]. We can’t wait to share what your generosity makes possible. We hope you'll support us on Erie Gives Day! Learn more at ErieGives.org. #ErieGives2026
How to Give Overview
Wondering how to participate in Erie Gives? 💙 On August 11, donors can give online at ErieGives.org from midnight to midnight, call the Erie Gives phone bank, or donate by check. Planning ahead helps ensure your gift is counted on giving day! Visit ErieGives.org for full details on how to give. #ErieGives2026
Multiple Ways to Give
Erie Gives makes it easy to support [organization name] in the way that works best for you. Donors can donate by check, or explore special giving options like charitable IRA rollovers, or give online on August 11 at ErieGives.org. No matter how you give, your generosity helps strengthen our mission to [insert mission]. For full guidelines on giving, please visit ErieGives.org. #ErieGives2026
During Erie Gives (Urgency + Real-Time Impact)
Giving Day Is Live
🚨 It’s here! Erie Gives is LIVE today from midnight to midnight! You can support [organization name] by donating online at ErieGives.org or by calling the Erie Gives Phone Bank between 8 AM-8 PM at 814.454.0843. Every gift helps us [specific impact or program] and strengthens our community. #ErieGives2026
Multiple Ways to Give
Erie Gives is happening TODAY! 💙
Support [organization name] in the way that works best for you:
✅ Donate online at ErieGives.org (midnight-midnight)
✅ Call the phone bank at 814.454.0843 (8 AM–8 PM)
✅ Drop off a check at the Erie Community Foundation by 8 PM
Thank you for being part of this incredible day of generosity.
#ErieGives2026
Midday Momentum + How to Give
The generosity today has been incredible — thank you! 💙
There’s still plenty of time to support [organization name] during Erie Gives.
Donate online at ErieGives.org until midnight, call the Erie Gives Phone Bank at 814.454.0843 before 8 PM, or drop off your check at the Erie Community Foundation by 8 PM.
Every gift makes a difference.
#ErieGives2026
Progress Update + Giving Options
🎯 Erie Gives update! We’ve raised $[X] so far today thanks to generous supporters like you.
Donate at ErieGives.org, call 814.454.0843, or drop off a check at the Erie Community Foundation before 8 PM. #ErieGives2026
Behind the Scenes + How to Give
A behind-the-scenes moment from Erie Gives 💙
Today’s donations directly support [specific program or service], and we’re so grateful for this community.
You can still give online at ErieGives.org, call 814.454.0843 (8 AM–8 PM), or drop off a check at the Erie Community Foundation until 8 PM.
#ErieGives2026
Last Call
⏳ Final hours of Erie Gives!
Make your gift to [organization name] before the day ends:
✅ Donate online at ErieGives.org (until midnight)
✅ Call 814.454.0843 (until 8 PM)
Thank you for supporting our mission!
#ErieGives2026
Quick Reminder
Erie Gives is happening NOW! Donate at ErieGives.org or call 814.454.084 before 8 PM. #ErieGives2026
After Erie Gives (Gratitude + Impact)
Immediate Thank You
THANK YOU! 💙 Erie Gives was an incredible reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together. We’re deeply grateful to every donor, supporter, and advocate who helped make this day a success for [organization name]. Stay tuned for our final donation count! #ErieGives2026
Totals + Impact
Because of you, we raised $[X] during Erie Gives! 🎉
These funds will help support [specific program or outcome], allowing us to continue [mission impact] in the months ahead. We’re honored to have such generous supporters by our side. #ErieGives2026
Community Gratitude
Erie Gives reminded us how powerful the Erie community can be. 💙 Thank you for supporting [organization name] and the work we do every day. #ErieGives2026
What’s Next
Erie Gives may be over, but the impact is just beginning.
Thanks to your generosity, we’re excited to move forward with [next steps, upcoming projects, or expanded services]. Stay connected as we continue sharing how your support makes a difference. #ErieGives2026
Social Media 101 Guide
Click on the guide to view full content.
Use sample messaging to help you communicate with donors, supporters, board members, and your broader network.
Sample Emails
Use sample messaging to help you communicate with donors, supporters, board members, and your broader network.
Before Erie Gives: Save the Date / Get Ready
Subject line options:
- Erie Gives is Coming — Join Us on August 11
- Save the Date: Erie Gives 2026
- Mark Your Calendar for Erie Gives
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
On August 11, our community will come together for Erie Gives 2026, Erie County’s annual day of giving hosted by The Erie Community Foundation.
Erie Gives is a 24-hour opportunity for donors to support the local nonprofits they care about most — all in one place, on one powerful day. Gifts made through Erie Gives may also be enhanced by community bonus funds, helping extend the impact of each donation.
This year,
[Organization Name] is participating to help raise support for
[brief description of your mission or focus]. Our goal is to raise
[$ goal] and engage
[optional: number] supporters who believe in our work.
We hope you’ll consider joining us and helping spread the word. Learn more about Erie Gives at ErieGives.org.
Thank you for being part of our community.
With gratitude,
[Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Website]
Leading Up to Erie Gives: Ways to Help
Subject line options:
- Help Us Prepare for Erie Gives
- Four Easy Ways to Support Our Erie Gives Campaign
- Join Us in Making Erie Gives a Success
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
Erie Gives 2026 is just around the corner, and we’re grateful to be part of a community that comes together to support local nonprofits.
There are several ways you can help [Organization Name] make the most of Erie Gives:
Mark your calendar for August 11 and plan to make a gift if you’re able.
Share our campaign with friends, family, and colleagues who may be interested in our work.
Spread the word on social media or through personal conversations — authentic messages go a long way.
Prepare your giving method!
How to Give:
Before August 11 -
✅ Drop off a check to the Erie Community Foundation at 459 W 6th St, Erie, PA 16507. Checks must be accompanied by a Check Donation Form and made out to The Erie Community Foundation (checks made out to any other organization will NOT be accepted).
✅ Charitable IRA Rollovers, via check or electronic transfer of cash or securities. Contact Marissa Tamulonis at MTamulonis@ErieCommunityFoundation.org or call 814.413.7345 to inquire.
During August 11 -
✅ Donate online at ErieGives.org (midnight-midnight)
✅ Call the phone bank at 814.454.0843 (8 AM-8 PM)
Every show of support helps raise awareness and strengthens our ability to serve the community.
Thank you for standing with us as Erie Gives approaches.
Warmly,
[Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Website]
Day-Of Erie Gives: It’s Here
Subject line options:
- Erie Gives 2026 Is Today
- Today’s the Day — Support Local Nonprofits
- Join Us Today for Erie Gives
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
Today is Erie Gives 2026 — Erie County’s community-wide day of giving!
For the next 24 hours, you can support [Organization Name] by making a gift to Erie Gives. Every donation, no matter the size, helps advance our mission of [insert mission] and strengthens our work in the community.
How to Give:
✅ Donate online at ErieGives.org (midnight-midnight)
[directly link your organization's profile here]
✅ Call the phone bank at 814.454.0843 (8 AM-8 PM)
✅ Drop off a check at the Erie Community Foundation by 8 PM. Checks must be accompanied by a Check Donation Form and made out to The Erie Community Foundation (checks made out to any other organization will NOT be accepted).
If you’re able to give today, we invite you to visit our Erie Gives page [link your page with a button or hyperlink] and make a donation. You can also help by sharing Erie Gives with others who may want to support local causes.
Give today: [Link to your Erie Gives page]
Thank you for being part of this incredible day of generosity.
With gratitude,
[Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Website]
Day-Of Follow-Up: Momentum & Sharing
Subject line options:
- Thank You for Helping Us Build Momentum on Erie Gives
- We’re Making Progress on Erie Gives — Thank You
- Your Support Is Making a Difference Today
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
Thank you for supporting [Organization Name] during Erie Gives 2026. Because of donors like you, we’re making meaningful progress toward our goal.
If you’re willing, one of the best ways to help us continue building momentum today is by sharing our Erie Gives campaign with others. A quick message, post, or conversation can help introduce new supporters to our work.
We’re grateful for your generosity and for helping strengthen our organization and community.
[Link to your Erie Gives page]
Thank you again,
[Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Website]
After Erie Gives: Thank You & Gratitude
Subject line options:
- Thank You for Being Part of Erie Gives 2026
- With Gratitude — Erie Gives 2026
- Thank You for Supporting Our Erie Gives Campaign
Email body:
Hi [First Name],
Thank you for supporting [Organization Name] during Erie Gives 2026.
Because of your generosity, we were able to raise [$ amount raised] to support [brief description of how funds will be used]. Every gift plays an important role in helping us continue serving our community.
We are incredibly grateful for the support shown during Erie Gives and throughout the year. We look forward to sharing updates about the impact of your gift and staying connected.
If you need a receipt or have questions about your donation, please contact The Erie Community Foundation by calling 814.454.0843.
With sincere thanks,
[Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Website]
Easy-to-customize templates to help you create polished Erie Gives promotional materials.
Digital
Canva Catchall
Need help using Canva? Schedule a Canva Catchall session with Kensley from The Nonprofit Partnership for hands-on support. Email KSemple@YourNPP.org to get started.
And don’t forget — Canva Pro is free for eligible nonprofits, giving you access to premium features at no cost to strengthen your campaign.
Webinar Library
Recordings from Erie Gives-related sessions and trainings will live here for easy access anytime you need them.
Questions or Need Additional Support?
Contacts at The Erie Community Foundation:
Meghan O'Brien | MObrien@ErieCommunityFoundation.org
Director of Grants & Administration
Contact Meghan for support with Erie Gives registration and eligibility.
Chloe Monroe | CMonroe@ErieCommunityFoundation.org
Marketing & Communications Assistant
Contact Chloe for support with your Erie Gives profile or to have your nonprofit’s story featured across The Erie Community Foundation’s social channels.
Marissa Tamulonis | MTamulonis@ErieCommunityFoundation.org
Assistant Director of Philanthropic Services
Contact Marissa with any questions related to IRA rollovers or stock contributions.
Contact at The Nonprofit Partnership:
Kensley Semple-Anderson | KSemple@YourNPP.org
Marketing & Member Engagement Specialist
Contact Kensley with questions related to membership at The Nonprofit Partnership, best practices in giving day fundraising or marketing, and Erie Gives programming.
Unlock More Benefits as a Member
To participate in Erie Gives, nonprofits must have an active membership with The Nonprofit Partnership or an agency endowment with The Erie Community Foundation. Membership goes beyond eligibility, giving you access to tools, training, and resources to help your organization be great at doing good. View member benefits here.
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What Our Client Say
The Nonprofit Partnership is the premier resource for nonprofits in our area. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and accessible. The online resources & educational sessions are informative and provide help conveniently. Whether you're starting out in the nonprofit sector, or have been working for decades, the NPP helps keep you up to date & relevant.
LEEANN KRAHE, CTRS
Director of Activities & Volunteer Services
Pleasant Ridge Manor & The Friends Forever Volunteers
With so many non-profits in Erie County, it is great to have resources and collaboration available through the Erie Non-Profit Partnership. I have attended several of the Nonprofit Partnership Day Seminars and I look forward to the content each year. With changes in policy and technology trends, it is also nice to have access to learning opportunities throughout the year. It is really nice to have a centralized organization to assist with our varying needs. Thank you!
MAUREEN RIZZO
Director of Development – Brevillier Village
Each of the (many) trainings that I have attended through The Nonprofit Partnership over the past… years has provided a valuable resource for professional development opportunity for staff and Board Members to the overall benefit of our organization [the Foundation for Sustainable Forests]. NPP trainings are focused, relevant and on-point for the needs of a small non-profit organization such as ours.
ANNIE SOCCI, PhD
Executive Director – The Foundation for Sustainable Forests
What Our Client Say
The Nonprofit Partnership is the premier resource for nonprofits in our area. Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and accessible. The online resources & educational sessions are informative and provide help conveniently. Whether you're starting out in the nonprofit sector, or have been working for decades, the NPP helps keep you up to date & relevant.
LEEANN KRAHE, CTRS
Director of Activities & Volunteer Services
Pleasant Ridge Manor & The Friends Forever Volunteers
With so many non-profits in Erie County, it is great to have resources and collaboration available through the Erie Non-Profit Partnership. I have attended several of the Nonprofit Partnership Day Seminars and I look forward to the content each year. With changes in policy and technology trends, it is also nice to have access to learning opportunities throughout the year. It is really nice to have a centralized organization to assist with our varying needs. Thank you!
MAUREEN RIZZO
Director of Development – Brevillier Village
Each of the (many) trainings that I have attended through The Nonprofit Partnership over the past… years has provided a valuable resource for professional development opportunity for staff and Board Members to the overall benefit of our organization [the Foundation for Sustainable Forests]. NPP trainings are focused, relevant and on-point for the needs of a small non-profit organization such as ours.
ANNIE SOCCI, PhD
Executive Director – The Foundation for Sustainable Forests