With Thanksgiving nearly here and Christmas right around the corner, it’s time to harness the spirit of the season in your nonprofit marketing.

Yet many nonprofits are recognizing that, with the current economy, fundraising in 2009 might not measure up to that of previous years. While this is not the time for charities to panic, it is time for a more realistic and actionable approach to overcoming the financial lull. A well-thought out and strategic marketing plan can help nonprofits boost their donations this holiday season despite the recession. Here are some tips to maximize your efforts:

Acknowledge all supporters
A one-on-one thank-you message may have more impact than a blanket e-mail. However if there are just too many recipients, send a general message and reserve personalized communications for your major stakeholders, sponsors, and contributors. Consider including sponsor logos and company or individual names on your website or in e-mail marketing. For top-tier members, include their logo and a link to their website to provide them with premium exposure to your membership base.

Let donors know that their funds are being put to good use
Nothing moves your donors more than hearing a true story about an individual or group whose life has been changed by your efforts. Include compelling pictures of those you have helped to resonate with your audience as well as statistics to illustrate your success. Whether you are sending an e-mail, newsletter, or holiday card to commemorate the season, it’s important to personalize your supporter’s experience with gratitude and results.

Be as specific as possible about your needs this year
Some donors are more likely to give if they know what project or campaign their contribution will support. Give as much detail as you can about project objectives and how donations of money, goods, volunteer time, etc. will help you achieve your goal. Don’t make your supporters guess what you want from them: they will respond more eagerly if you are explicit about your needs!

Leverage your partnerships to reach target audiences
Consider asking board members, long-time supporters, colleagues, even family and friends if their business or organization would be willing to include a message about your charity in their holiday marketing.

Don’t forget that it’s gift-giving season
If your organization sells merchandise to raise funds, consider making a “Gift Recommendations” page on your website that your marketing references directly. Remember to include a suggestion that gift-givers make a donation in another person’s name or purchase a gift membership to your nonprofit.

Remind your audience their donation is tax deductible
Donors have less than two months to get those last donations in before next year’s tax season, so this is a call-to-action message. Your donors will also appreciate it if you make it hassle-free to collect the documentation they need for their returns.

When funds are short for everyone, it can be difficult to illicit the same level of donations achieved during past holiday seasons. Year-end holiday communications and the spirit of the season can combat the economic lull and ensure your supporters stay eager to give and engage in your mission.

The good news is there is an end in sight. According to a Campbell Rinker survey of 500 donors, only 32% were satisfied with the country’s economic direction last December. In summer of this year, that number was already up to 51%. While the survey indicates that few people expect to give more this year, the improving confidence in the economy bodes well for long-term fundraising efforts.