Sending thank you letters or notes to people who make a donation shows your appreciation and reinforces their goodwill about making a financial gift to charity. It is best to acknowedge the gift soon after it is received.

Thank you letters which are on the charity letterhead serve as tax receipts. This type of letter would also need to include the amount donated. Remember, if you are a volunteer fundraiser, the charity handles sending out official tax receipts. However, it could be nice to also send a thank you note if appropriate for your situation. This way, your donors will get a personal thank you from you, and a formal thank you from the charity.

Thank you letters can be handwritten notes or typed letters as long as you sign them.

Fundraising donation thank you notes can be a generic thank you note card. These are sold in quantity packs in retail stores. Just add your personal message inside.

Related Articles & Resources

Thank You Letter Template
Thanking Donors on a Dime
Step By Step Guide to Writing Fundraising Letters

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Scratchcards are an unusual way to raise money for a school, sports team or other group. A scratchcard is a small tri-fold booklet that contains a card of 60 colored “scratch-off” circles. Supporters are invited to “scratch” off one or more of the circles on the card to reveal how much they will donate, ranging from FREE to $2.50. It is easy to ask someone to donate something that amounts to pocket change.

No matter what the amount revealed, every person who donates gets a coupon with $75 is savings at national retailers, fast food and other merchants. So everyone gets a valuable thank you gift in return for their donation.

So how do participants in the fundraiser approach others to ask for donations using the scratchcards? It’s really pretty easy, just be polite and courteous. Always identify yourself and which group you are with. If you’re raising money for something specific say so. People will find it to be a nice surprise to hear that they don’t have to buy anything to support your group. Make sure people know that they’ll get a free coupon sheet worth $75 for each circle they scratch-off. Always say thank you and smile.

eFundraising recommends the following strategy for raising money with Scratchcards:

Go somewhere where the there is a lot of people outside shopping malls, cinemas, etc. Some groups go dressed in their uniforms (baseball for example). Just remember to ask the owner first. Secondly, if you have a few dots left on the card and are close to the deadline the organization set, ask the parents to take it to work. It will be done in no time at all.

One of the advantages of scratchcards is that they can be completed in a very short time frame. Most participants can return a completed card to their organization in about a week.

Another advantage of scratchcards is that with each card your group can raise $100 when all the circles are used. Cards cost between $10 and $20 each depending on the number of cards ordered, plus an additional 10% in free bonus cards.

Because of the very low cost of the cards, almost all of the money raised goes directly to support your group. Those who donate to your cause can feel confident knowing that the money they give goes directly to help your cause not to pay for administrative costs or products. It shows that you appreciate their support and respect their decision to donate.

Since there is very little overhead, a portion of the funds available could be used to provide prizes. Another option would be to request prize donations from area businesses, like what is done with other types of fundraisers. This way more of the money raised goes directly to the cause. The prizes could be something as simple as a coupon for a free round of miniature golf or a pizza party.

Consider offering a lot of small prizes to award those who get the cards done the quickest. It’s always better to reward many of your group members, rather than just a select few. That way they will be more open to take part in your next fundraiser.

PLUS…just for Step by Step Fundraising Customers…You’ll get free shipping on your scratchcard order when you also participate in the online magazine program. There’s no additional cost and you’ll be earning more profit for your group.

Click here to learn more about scratchcards or call 1-866-450-5794

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There are key pieces of information that need to be on your tickets. You need a section for the purchaser to fill out which will then be put in the drawing.

On the left-hand side of the ticket include: name, address, phone and email (optional).

On the right hand side print information about the drawing: the organization’s name, address and/or city, state, phone number, date of the raffle, list of major prizes, and website. Give this stub to the purchaser to keep.

Do it Yourself Raffle Tickets

You can create tickets from your personal computer, print them out and make copies. Cut out the tickets. Staple in books of 5 or 10 and you are ready to go.

The upside to printing raffle tickets yourself is that it is the cheapest option. You may even find someone to donate the copying.

The downside to this approach is that you cannot number tickets so easily. Second, unless done properly they could look unprofessional. This could cast doubt on the legitimacy of your organization or the ticket sales.

To make your tickets as professional as possible, be mindful of the design and layout. If this is not your forte, ask someone in your group who is good at graphics to create the tickets.

Using a heavier paper or card stock can also make your tickets more appealing.

Professional Printing

This is a better option if you are selling thousands of tickets. The tickets may have a more professional look, which will add value and credibility to your campaign. You could also number the them, which can be helpful in tracking sales.

Choose the best option that works for you and get those raffle tickets printed!

Related Resources:

How to Organize a Raffle Fundraiser
Raffle Ticket Software
United States Raffle Laws

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Murder Mystery Parties - A Killer Fundraiser!

Are you looking for a fun event fundraiser? When you host a Dinner and a Murder Mystery Party your guests will be immersed in an evening of treachery, murder, blackmail, intrigue and back stabbing.

The games by DinnerAndAMurder.com take about three hours to play, including dinner. Guests assume the roles of characters in the plot, and at the end the killer - or killers - is revealed

The best thing about this event, besides being lots of fun, is that it can be planned for just about any size gathering. Most games are created for 10-32 people. However, when you add on Extra Characters you can accommodate a party of up to 200.

So how can you turn a Murder Mystery Party into a fundraiser?

Step by Step, here we go . . .

1. Figure out the logistics of the party you’ll be holding. How many people would you expect? Where will you hold it? In someone’s home, in a rental hall, a restaurant, etc.? Will the meal be catered or prepared by volunteers in your organization?

2. Decide on a theme for your party. Which theme would your guests most enjoy? Would your guests enjoy a costume party? Or a theme that didn’t necessarily require a costume?

Here are a few of the games available from Dinner and a Murder:

Murder at the Four Deuces
a rip roaring 1920’s gangster murder mystery party game with lots of murder, bribery and back stabbing to be had. Some of the guests will include infamous gangsters, politicians, singers and gamblers. - a roaring 20’s gangster murder mystery that takes place at the Four Deuces speakeasy.

Murder at the Four Deuces (Teen Version)
a fun 1920’s gangster murder mystery game designed for teens.

The Santa Clause
The Santa Clause is a contemporary murder mystery game that takes place at the Christmas Party of the law firm Lie, Cheat & Steal. With this many lawyers & politicians involved there is sure to be plenty of back stabbing going around.

A Killer Reunion
This is a VERY clean murder mystery game that takes place at a class reunion. The year and/or theme can be determined by the host. This game is suitable for very conservative groups. (Designed for couples, great for Valentine’s Day)

3. Set a date.

4. Create a budget for the event. Outline all of the expenses: game cost, food, other rentals, prizes, etc. The expenses should equal 30% or less of the total funds raised. You can raise all the funds from the ticket price, or combine with other fundraisers at the game night (like a cash bar)(Hint: the more you can get donated, the better!)

5. Based on the expected cost of the event, set the ticket price. Remember that guests will know that this is a charitable event. Plus, this is also more than just dinner, it’s a party! Most will be willing to pay higher than they normally would for just dinner at a restaurant.

When setting ticket prices, also think about what will be included in the ticket. Do you want to have a cash bar separate? Is Dessert extra? Will there be a silent auction? These “extras” could boost the funds raised for your charity and effect the price that you want to charge for the entry ticket.

6. Finally, plan all the details that go into a party. . . decorations, invitations, tickets, costumes…this is the fun part, be creative! Get RSVPs from your invitees and call everyone to remind them about the event.

7. Enjoy your Dinner and a Murder Party!

Find your perfect party at DinnerAndAMurder.com

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An online magazine fundraiser raises funds when your supporters to purchase a magazine online. Your group gets a free custom website and promotion tools to help encourage people to support the fundraiser by purchasing one or more magazines.
Participants simply collect email addresses of potential supporters anywhere in the US. The online system sends out personalized emails inviting them to order magazines through your own customized website. The company processes and sends all the orders so there’s no money to collect, no items to deliever.

This email campaign allows friends and family from across the United States to support your group by purchasing or renewing their favorite magazines at up to 85% off newsstand prices, while your group keeps 40% of the purchase price.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Magazine Program:

What size group does the magazine program work best for?

The Online Magazine Program is really unique, as its good for any group size. The key point to having a succesful fundraiser with the program - is entering as many email addresses of people you know as possible.

It’s fast and easy. For example, a choral group of 13 participents, raised over $1300 profit in just a few days - because they all entered emails, and told these people to expect their email.

How many email addresses should be sent to in order to get a good number of magazine sales?

A minimum of 12 emails per person should be entered to get the best results. Also there’s a reward you for doing this - a free movie ticket (as long as they are valid emails, and you sell minimum one magazine). To obtain more email addresses, ask parents to email co-workers, make sure everyone in your group is taking part in the fundraiser, include a link to your store in any existing e-newsletters your group sends out.

What success strategies should people participating in the magazine programs use?

Tell people ahead of time to expect the email, maximise your network of friends and family members, ask them to send emails for your group as well, launch your campaign every couple of months, look to see how much money you will save, by extending your existing subscriptions online to support your group. Saying you have done it yourself is the best way to add credibility to your campaign.

Online Magazine Fundraising Benefits:

• No door to door selling
• No money to collect
• No delieveries
• 40% Commission on all orders
• Over 650 magazine titles to choose from
• Program can be done fast
• Works for any size non profit group

Combine Fundraisers & Raise More…

It’s easy to combine the online magazine program with other fundraising projects that you’re doing. Since it’s all online there’s very extra work required.

PLUS…just for Step by Step Fundraising Customers…You’ll get free shipping on all chocolate and scratchcard orders when you participate in the online magazine program.

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1. Kiss a Pig - We did this one back in high school, and it was a big hit. The students’ favorite (or least favorite) teachers are persuaded to join in. Jars with each teachers name are placed in a prominent location in the school. Which ever teacher has received the most money by a given date has to “kiss the pig” in a school assembly. This is a fun fundraiser that kids, parents and teachers will enjoy. Update: Find out exactly how a high school raised money with this event.

2. Singing Telegrams - This fun fundraiser idea is great for school or church choirs. Buyers select the song, recipient and any special message. Singers visit the recipient in their class to give the telegram. This one is great for Valentines Day.

3. Goofy Olympics - Pick fun and silly games for an “Olympics” day. Participants pay an entry fee per game or for the whole day. Prizes (donated) are given to winners of each contest or game. Combine this program with food booths for more fun and profits.

4. Pie and cake auction - The cooks and the sweet lovers in your group will enjoy this fun fundraiser idea! Ask for donations of cakes and pies. Label each dessert with the name of the dessert and the cook. Ask your most humorous and charismatic person to be the auctioneer who can entertain the crowd and boost the auction prices.

5. Murder Mystery Party - When you host a Dinner and a Murder Mystery Party your guests will be immersed in an evening of treachery, murder, blackmail, intrigue and back stabbing. Sounds exciting, don’t you agree? Click on the following link to find out exactly how to plan a Murder Mystery Party fundraiser event!

Click here for a list of more fun fundraising ideas

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Last month’s newsletter issue focused on strategies for raising money for your non profit with a garage sale. Used item sales can come in all shapes and sizes with many names, some people call them yard sales or rummage sales. I was recently visiting friends in Massachusetts and found out that in that area of the country they’re called “tag sales.” No matter what you call it, holding a sale can be a great way to raise money for your group.

Get more garage sale tips, and/or post your own sale ideas in the discussion forum

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If you’re a subscriber to my monthly e-zine, you may recall that I’ve been working on a new design for the site behind the scenes. It’s been in the planning stages for awhile, as I knew I really wanted a different look for the site. The idea is to make it easier on the eyes, easy to navigate and integrate this “news” section in with the rest of the website. So it will all look and function the same.

Official release date: Tuesday, May 3rd — one week from today.

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Okay, so donuts aren’t exactly the healthiest breakfast in the world, but they sure taste good! Especially Krispy Kreme. In the words of Homer Simpson (glassy eyed and drooling) “Hmmm . . . Donuts.”

You can pull in some easy cash for your charity with a Krispy Kreme fundraiser!

Krispy Kreme has a variety of fundraisers available. One way to raise money is to just sell the donuts. They offer doughnuts to non-profit groups at a reduced price, which are then resold for full retail price, or slightly higher.

When I was raising money for the Leukemia Society, I brought in a few dozen donuts to work and just left them in the break room. On the honor system, people put one dollar (or more) in a jar for each donut.

I put up flyers around the office a few days before too. The first day I did this I only brought two dozen donuts and they were gone in like 5 minutes! The next time I brought in five dozen and they too sold like crazy.

This fundraiser was sooo easy because all I had to do was buy the donuts and then collect the money from the jar when they sold out.

Hint: You can get a money collector that is locked with a plastic tie at the Container Store.

Krispy Kreme also has several other fundraisers like selling gift certificates and partnership cards. You could even do all three fundraisers at the same time!

You can increase your sales by adding some other breakfast choices for your hungry customers. Contact a local bakery or bagel shop and see if they will donate or give a reduced price on a breakfast tray. This way you can cater to those who prefer healthier choices (or even more rich with pastries!)

Get More Information to Plan Your Own Krispy Kreme Fundraiser

Visit the Krispy Kreme website to find out more about the fundraising programs and locate a store near you > KrispyKreme.com

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The “head shave challenge” is a fundraiser that has been very successful with many fundraisers. This encourages more donations and works in conjunction with other fundraisers. The group is challenged to raise money for the cause and if they reach a certain amount, then a leader will have his or her head shaved.

It works especially well with kids and teens who like seeing teachers and other adults humbled a bit. A new variation on this is to dye the adult’s hair instead. Students who raise the most money would be able to use temporary spray hair color — blue, green, red, etc. — and paint the adult’s hair in public.

Les Nelson has been using the “head shave challenge” to help raise money for people who are effected by Leukemia for four years in a row. Now he’s even gotten other people to volunteer for the challenge.

Les Nelson does the head shave challenge along with a luau party and raffle. The fundraisers benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society as part of his participation in the Team in Training program.

When planning for the event, I set a fundraising goal that I hope to reach by the end of the luau. If the goal is reached, the person who has donated the most money gets to shave my head. The shaving is the entertainment highlight of the evening, and many other people - both patrons and staff - have also had their heads shaved for additional donations.

Many patients who undergo chemotherapy experience hair loss as a side effect. Shaving my head is a way to show them support and solidarity, as well as generating interest in the cause. Also, for the last two years, women have gone onstage and donated their pony tails to Locks of Love, allowing us to benefit two great causes with one event.

The owner of the pub where the luau is held is a friend of Les and has supported the charity for several years. The pub provides the prizes, location, and drink specials. The pub even gets vendors and suppliers to donate merchandise from their marketing campaigns. Most of the prizes have some sort of logo on them, and the prizes have included shirts, golf bags, DVD players, Weber grills, hats, and neon signs. Les brings in a crowd of people on an otherwise slow night. So it’s a winning situation for everyone.

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