“Last Christmas I gave you my heart” – 6 lessons for charities from ‘festive’ records

You don't need me to tell you. 2015 has been a tough year for those of us working in charities. To put a smile on our faces, I thought I'd lighten the mood just a little. As I write this blog, it's a week and a half until Christmas, so I'm going to play you a few of my favourite 'festive' records, and reflect on what charities can learn from them. Are you ready? Got the volume up? OK, here goes!   1. How about some #donorlove in the New Year? Last Christmas, by Wham! Last Christmas, I gave you my heart But the very next day, you gave it away OK, so some might find this song a little cheesy, but listen to it again. Imagine lovelorn George as a donor who gave to your charity last Christmas appeal, but was left feeling neglected. Did you treat him right? Did you let him know what his support enabled you to achieve? Let's make sure we love and cherish our supporters - even George. Or this year, to save them from tears, they'll give to someone else - someone who makes them feel special.   2. Think about the front line in 2016 Stop the Cavalry, by Jona Lewie If I get home, live to tell the tale I'll run for all presidencies If I get elected I'll stop, I will stop the cavalry Wish I was at home for Christmas This is one of my all-time favourites. I think there's something about this soldier's wistfulness, and his understanding that his wishes are just as important as the Prime Minister's. Let's remember that our supporters lov