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Listen to your grandma

Listen to your grandma… she knows about proper thanks. I’ve written a few times about poorly done thanks or solicitations, so I wanted to write about a thank you we recently received that did it right. But instead of my response, let me offer my husband’s. He’s not a fundraiser so he’s probably a better […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Thanks Tagged With: donor retention, thank you letters Leave a Comment

A cure for 3 am panic

Ever needed a cure for the 3 am panic? I know you’ve been there too. It’s 3 am. Your eyes are closed, but your heart is pounding and your mind is racing. Your appeal is due to mail and you’ve got… Nothing. Try to rest. Because when the morning comes, you will get started on your next appeal. Maybe […]

Filed Under: Blog, Caring for yourself, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, Nonprofit, Swipe file Leave a Comment

Real friends – a valentine

Back in the old days before Facebook or Twitter, people met and talked (and argued) on message boards. It was on a message board that I met a group of women. I’ve now known these women for almost fifteen years. We moved together from board to board and eventually to Facebook. We know each other’s […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donors, Thanks Tagged With: Donors, Facebook, Friendship, relationships, Social media, Twitter Leave a Comment

I see you

That’s what we all really want, isn’t it? Someone who sees us. We want to be known for ourselves, as people. To be recognized. That’s what our donors are looking for as well. So why is so much communication impersonal and generic? The lazy answer is because it’s easier that way. Large organizations might think: […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, communication, Donors, Fundraising, Letter Writing, Nonprofit, relationships 7 Comments

Extrovert? Why you might want to listen more

It wasn’t the first time I’d seen an out-of-control extrovert. I watched as a colleague confidently strode toward the party. Eager to talk to any and everyone in the room, she helped herself to a drink and hurried in. In the fundraising biz, it’s easier to be an extrovert. Extroverts don’t hesitate to wade into […]

Filed Under: Blog, Fundraising Tagged With: Donors, Fundraising, Nonprofit, Personality type Leave a Comment

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