A Home Run in Donor Recognition: The Power of Personalized Appreciation
By Megan Hodges
Donor recognition walls come in all shapes and sizes, but the best ones tell a story—one that connects supporters to the mission in a meaningful way. One of my all-time favorites was for DREAM (formerly Harlem RBI). DREAM began in 1991 when a group of volunteers started playing baseball with kids in East Harlem. Today, DREAM serves over 2,600 young people each year through its PreK-12 charter schools and alumni programs across East Harlem and the South Bronx, helping them thrive in school and beyond. Their donor wall wasn’t just a list of names on a plaque—it was a unique tribute to the people who made their work possible.
Instead of traditional engraved plates or bricks, this organization honored its donors by asking for their autograph on a baseball. The display wasn’t just eye-catching; it was deeply symbolic. Donors became part of the team and heroes in the story as well. Each ball was signed by a donor and proudly displayed on the wall in a beautiful “skybox” conference room overlooking the gym, creating a visual representation of the community that stepped up to the plate to support kids and their futures.
Each donor had the opportunity to sign a ball themselves, adding it to the wall and physically becoming part of the legacy. That simple act of participation made giving feel personal, reinforcing a sense of ownership and pride in the organization’s work.
What made this wall so special was its authenticity. Baseball and softball weren’t just themes; they are the heart of the organization’s mission. This approach to donor recognition is a powerful lesson for any nonprofit. When we think beyond the standard formats and create recognition experiences that align with our mission, we build deeper emotional connections. The best donor walls aren’t just about thanking people—they excite and inspire others to step up to the plate.
Megan Hodges has over 20 years of experience in fundraising, having raised over $200M, led high-performing teams, and driven organizational growth. As a Senior Consultant at Heller Fundraising Group, she specializes in major gift fundraising and capital campaigns.