In September 2025, Sam’s Club redefined corporate philanthropy by embracing creativity, community engagement, and digital innovation in its donation request strategies. As part of the Walmart Foundation’s broader commitment to sustainability, opportunity, and community support, Sam’s Club amplified its impact through inventive campaigns that resonated with nonprofits and donors alike. The result was a month of record-breaking engagement, meaningful partnerships, and tangible outcomes for organizations across the United States.
At the heart of Sam’s Club’s success was its Spark Good initiative, a multifaceted platform that empowered nonprofits to connect with donors through registries, round-up campaigns, and local grants. In September, nonprofits leveraged Spark Good to create personalized donation requests that reflected their unique missions. Instead of generic appeals, organizations curated registries filled with specific items—ranging from school supplies to hygiene kits—that donors could purchase directly through Sam’s Club. sam’s club donation request This approach eliminated logistical barriers and gave supporters a clear, actionable way to contribute.
One standout example was a youth shelter in Ohio that launched a “Back to School Essentials” registry. The shelter listed items like backpacks, notebooks, and snacks, all available through Sam’s Club. Donors could select products and have them shipped directly to the shelter, streamlining the donation process. The campaign went viral on social media, thanks to heartfelt videos from shelter staff and students. By the end of September, the registry had fulfilled over 90% of its listed items, demonstrating the power of targeted, transparent donation requests.
Sam’s Club also embraced cause marketing collaborations with nonprofits, allowing organizations to co-brand campaigns and tap into the retailer’s vast customer base. In September 2025, a food bank in Texas partnered with Sam’s Club for a “Round-Up for Hunger” initiative. Customers shopping in-store or online were invited to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar, with proceeds going directly to the food bank. The campaign was promoted through digital signage, email newsletters, and influencer partnerships. Within three weeks, the food bank received over $250,000 in donations, enough to provide more than one million meals.
Another creative strategy involved the Volunteerism Always Pays (VAP) program, which incentivized Sam’s Club associates to volunteer with local nonprofits. In September, organizations crafted donation requests that included volunteer opportunities, knowing that associate hours could translate into monetary grants. A community garden in California invited Sam’s Club employees to help with fall planting, and the hours logged through VAP resulted in a $10,000 donation. This model not only provided hands-on support but also deepened relationships between Sam’s Club and the communities it serves.
Technology played a crucial role in enhancing donation requests. Nonprofits used AI-driven storytelling tools to craft compelling narratives that highlighted their needs and impact. These stories were embedded into Spark Good registries and shared across social media platforms. In September, a domestic violence shelter in Florida used AI to generate personalized thank-you messages for donors, increasing retention and engagement. The shelter’s campaign raised 40% more than its previous efforts, proving that emotional connection drives results.
Sam’s Club also supported virtual fundraising events that incorporated donation requests in innovative ways. A literacy nonprofit hosted a live-streamed “Read-a-Thon,” where participants pledged donations for every chapter read. Sam’s Club sponsored the event and provided matching funds for the first $50,000 raised. The event featured guest authors, interactive polls, and real-time donation tracking. By the end of September, the campaign had raised $120,000 and distributed thousands of books to underserved schools.
Inclusivity was another hallmark of Sam’s Club’s September donation strategy. The company prioritized support for diverse and underrepresented communities, encouraging nonprofits to highlight cultural relevance in their requests. A Native American youth organization created a registry focused on traditional art supplies and educational materials. Sam’s Club promoted the campaign during National Native American Heritage Month, driving awareness and donations. The registry was fully funded within two weeks, showcasing the importance of culturally sensitive fundraising.
Environmental sustainability also shaped donation requests. Nonprofits aligned with Sam’s Club’s green initiatives by requesting eco-friendly products and emphasizing waste reduction. A wildlife rescue center in Colorado launched a “Green Shelter” registry featuring biodegradable cleaning supplies, solar-powered lights, and recycled bedding. Sam’s Club spotlighted the campaign in its sustainability newsletter, attracting environmentally conscious donors. The center reported a 60% increase in new supporters and expanded its operations thanks to the influx of resources.
Local impact remained a priority. Sam’s Club encouraged nonprofits to tailor donation requests to the specific needs of their communities. In September, a senior center in Michigan requested mobility aids and wellness kits through Spark Good. The campaign was promoted by the local Sam’s Club store, with associates sharing stories of their own family members who benefited from similar services. This personal touch resonated with customers, leading to a surge in donations and volunteer sign-ups.
Transparency and accountability were central to every successful donation request. Nonprofits provided real-time updates on how donations were used, often through video diaries, impact dashboards, and donor shout-outs. Sam’s Club supported these efforts by offering digital tools and training sessions. In September, a refugee assistance organization used a live map to show where donated items were distributed. The visual storytelling helped donors feel connected to the mission and encouraged repeat contributions.
Sam’s Club also facilitated collaborative donation requests, where multiple nonprofits joined forces for a shared cause. In September, a coalition of animal shelters launched a “Paws Across America” registry, listing pet food, grooming supplies, and medical kits. Sam’s Club created a dedicated landing page for the campaign and promoted it through national advertising. The collective effort raised over $500,000 and supported shelters in 20 states.
The success of Sam’s Club donation requests in September 2025 can be attributed to a few key principles: personalization, transparency, community engagement, and strategic use of technology. By empowering nonprofits to tell their stories, connect with donors, and streamline the giving process, Sam’s Club transformed traditional fundraising into a dynamic, results-driven experience.
As the month came to a close, nonprofits reflected on the impact of their campaigns and the role Sam’s Club played in their success. From small grassroots organizations to national charities, the message was clear: when donation requests are crafted with creativity and supported by a committed corporate partner, the results speak for themselves.