The holidays are a time of joy, gratitude, and—if you work at a nonprofit—mild panic while hunting for the perfect donor gift. Sure, you could send another cookie tin or a beautifully branded pen, but why not sprinkle a little humor into your appreciation this year? Donors love knowing their support matters, but they also love a good laugh. This holiday season, consider delighting your supporters with gifts that are equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. Here are five funny nonprofit donor gifts that are guaranteed to earn smiles, chuckles, and maybe even a few social-media shoutouts.
- The “World’s Okayest Donor” Mug
Perfect for donors who love self-deprecating humor… and caffeine.
While your donors are certainly better than “okay,” the irony is exactly what makes this mug so charming. It’s a universally relatable, gently cheeky way to say, “We appreciate you—and we know you have a sense of humor.” Bonus: Every morning coffee becomes a mini celebration of their generosity.
- An Honorary Intern Certificate
Move over, honorary board members. This year, it’s all about honorary interns. Present donors with an official-looking certificate granting them the prestigious title of “Honorary Nonprofit Intern.” Responsibilities include: forgetting their lunch at least twice, saying “I can help with that!” too enthusiastically, and being vaguely confused about what everyone actually does. It’s silly, playful, and wonderfully on-brand for any organization familiar with intern chaos. - Upcycled Office-Supply Holiday Ornament
Nothing captures the spirit of nonprofit life quite like repurposing what you already have. Create “limited-edition holiday ornaments” by decorating surplus paper clips, retired name badges, or gently used binder clips. Add bows or glitter for full holiday flair. Your donors get a handcrafted keepsake—and a small glimpse into the resourceful magic of nonprofit operations. - A Staff Pet in Costume
This is Mr. Pickles dressed as generosity.
Let’s be honest: donors love pets almost as much as they love impact reports. So send a printed postcard (or digital greeting) featuring staff pets dressed as holiday elves, snowflakes, or—in peak nonprofit fashion—“philanthropy superheroes.” It’s adorable, disarming, and makes donors feel like part of the extended family.
- A Coupon for One Free Nonprofit Zoom Meeting
For donors who truly want the full nonprofit experience, give them a tongue-in-cheek coupon granting access to a “complimentary Zoom meeting.” Whether you stage a five-minute call of pure, delightful awkwardness or simply let them “redeem” it for a silly thank-you video, this gift is a lighthearted nod to modern nonprofit life.
This year, think beyond traditional gifts and give your donors something memorable, humorous, and joy-filled. Laughter is a gift in itself—so why not wrap it up and send it with love?
