Canada Post Strike Looms:
How It Could Impact Your Year-End Fundraising—and What to Do About It
Updated November 20, 2024
As we approach the busy holiday season, the Canada Post strike which started Friday, Nov 15th is a cause for concern for many charities who rely heavily on traditional mail to meet their annual fundraising goals.
For nonprofits, the timing couldn’t be worse. The holiday season is a crucial period for fundraising, and many charities rely heavily on direct mail to reach donors and hit year-end targets.
The good news? There are steps you can take to pivot and stay on track, even if a strike disrupts your plans. Our two-part series offers practical tips and real-life examples to help nonprofits boost online engagement and adapt to challenges like this. Here’s what we know and how you can prepare.
What We Know
Strike or Lockout on the Horizon: The cooling-off period ended on November 3, meaning either side can initiate action with 72 hours' notice.
Potential Strike Dynamics: The last strike in 2018 was a rolling strike that affected specific areas rather than the entire country. Major urban centers like Toronto were hit hardest.
Legislative Challenges: Unlike in 2018, the current federal government may struggle to pass back-to-work legislation due to opposition from the Federal NDP.
Understanding the Impact
A Canada Post strike could delay or halt the delivery of appeals, disrupt donation processing, and limit communication with donors. This is especially critical during a season that accounts for a significant portion of annual giving.
However, challenges often lead to creative solutions. By shifting focus to digital channels and alternative communication methods, you can maintain donor engagement and revenue.
Strategies for a Successful Year-End Fundraising Campaign
1. Double Down on Email Fundraising
Email is a fast and cost-effective alternative to direct mail. Adding a few extra appeals can have a big impact.
Pro Tip:
Call your print-only donors to collect email addresses. A personal message—such as, “I usually send a letter, but I’m calling because we may not reach you that way this year!”—can motivate donors to share their email information.
2. Leverage SMS and Voice Messaging
Text messaging is direct, quick, and effective, especially during time-sensitive disruptions. Broadcast Voice messaging is an under-utilized and affordable alternative to calling your donors personally.
Pro Tip:
Launch an SMS campaign to:
Inform donors about the strike.
Share the urgency of their contributions during the holidays.
Include donation links for seamless giving.
BVM campaigns cannot contain solicitations
3. Personally Reach Out to Major Donors
Personal connections can drive significant contributions during uncertain times, and your best donors may even want to lend a hand!
Pro Tip:
Engage major donors with a phone call, discuss matching gift opportunities, or encourage them to increase their contributions to help bridge gaps.
4. Implement Delayed Match or Upgrade Campaigns
If delays in mail delivery are inevitable, adjust your strategy by offering extended or follow-up matching campaigns.
Pro Tip:
Be transparent about the potential revenue loss from the strike and invite donors or corporate partners to step in with matching funds or sponsorships.
5. Use Buckslips in Late Mail Appeals
If you can still send mail, buckslips—small inserts added to your appeals—can reinforce your message.
Pro Tip:
Keep it simple. Unpolished designs on inexpensive paper can emphasize urgency and drive results.
A Silver Lining
While a potential strike poses challenges, it also provides an opportunity to innovate and connect more meaningfully with donors. Diversifying your strategies can lead to stronger relationships and a more robust donor database for the future.
By focusing on digital channels, personal outreach, and creative alternatives, you can navigate this hurdle and finish the year strong.
Ready to take action? Start implementing these strategies today to ensure your year-end success, no matter what happens with Canada Post.