If you drive through Virginia, you’ve no doubt seen the state’s long-standing slogan: Virginia is for lovers. This message is plastered on road signs, across the bottom of license plates, and in restaurants and shops. Nearly 300 sculptures that spell LOVE can be found at rest stops, along the highway, and at random locations throughout the state.

The motto has stood the test of time. Originally coined in 1969, the slogan was designed to highlight all the things Virginians love about their home state. In its original incarnation, there were multiple versions that included:

• Virginia is for beach lovers.
• Virginia is for history lovers.
• Virginia is for nature lovers.
• Virginia is for mountain lovers.

You get the idea. Ultimately, qualifying words were removed, allowing state residents to add their own (or not): Virginia is for _________ lovers.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, it seems only appropriate to frame the nonprofit sector in terms of love:

• Nonprofits are for people lovers.
• Nonprofits are for nature lovers.
• Nonprofits are for animal lovers.
• Nonprofits are for arts and culture lovers.
• Nonprofits are for science lovers.
• Nonprofits are for community lovers.

Once again, you get the idea. The nonprofit sector is a manifestation of love for our world and those in it: Nonprofits are for _________ lovers.

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for everyone involved in making a difference—those who carry out the work, those who fund and support the cause, and those whose lives are positively impacted.

Here are some meaningful ways to show love this season:

• Share stories, quotes, testimonials, or specific examples of how individuals or communities have been transformed by an organization’s efforts.
• Celebrate the dedication of staff, board members, and volunteers who drive the mission forward.
• Write heartfelt "love notes" to donors, volunteers, and partners to thank them for their support.
• Highlight February volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, or donation drives that encourage community engagement.
• Showcase how small gestures—like a donation or a few hours of volunteering—can create significant change.
• Recognize and celebrate the power of collaboration and partnerships in achieving shared goals.

After all, nonprofits are for lovers. ♥