If you have played the game of scrabble you know that some letters are worth more than others.  Just like the humble letter “Y” will give you four extra points if you play it, using the word “you” in fundraising letters adds more value as well. It can instantly transform a letter from being a […]

The Thank You letter often is created and sent without much thought. It may seem to be the last step in getting a gift from a donor and a routine task that warrants little merit. But it’s actually the first step in securing the next gift! Purposeful and well-thought out Thank You letters can help […]

Do you thank your volunteers, donors and members in the same way — year after year? Would you like to come up with some fresh ideas that have worked successfully for other organizations? 121 Recognition Ideas for Donors, Volunteers and Members published by Stevenson, Inc. offers you 121 valuable ideas that you can put into […]

Sending your thanks to people who have helped with a fundraising campaign, including volunteers, staff and donors, is very important. Marc Pitman also advises us to be attentive and listen to what supporters say. How you respond or don’t respond to them can unintentionally communicate negative messages to them. Just taking money without thanking donors […]

Does your non profit organization send out a newsletter? Most organizations should send out at least a quarterly update to keep in touch with donors. Just like donation request letters, newsletters should speak to the needs and interests of the reader. They should include an appropriate emotional appeal using stories of real people who are […]

How can we show our supporters our heartfelt thanks without using their donated money to do it? The best suggestion is to take the lead of your donor community and incorporate some inexpensive ideas to show your appreciation. […]

One of the example fundraising letters I happened to come across on the internet is from the Jeans for Genes campaign. It’s an organization that raises money for children with genetic disorders. They provide a lot of tools and templates for people who participate in the campaign including an example letter for parents. This is […]