Hands-On Fundraising

Donor Communications

  • About
  • Hands-On Fundraising Blog
  • Services
  • Contact

Donor Communications

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

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

Trademarked

Can a friend be trademarked? I received a solicitation in the mail the other day. I bet you’ve also gotten this one or one like it. It comes with many colorful address labels. And a nickel! What really made me laugh this time, though, was the salutation. They obviously knew my name, because it was […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, direct mail, Fundraising

No thanks

Almost every day I receive an acknowledgment letter that misses the mark. We’ll call it a no thanks. But the one I received recently really offers a lesson in what not to do. Thank you fail It’s plainly generic, to begin with. Though my name and address appear on the letter, the salutation reads “Dear Friend”. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Thanks Tagged With: donor retention, Donors, Fundraising, Nonprofit, thank you letters, Thanks

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 52
  • 53
  • 54

Fundraising advice served fresh to your inbox

Get yours here:

Search

Recent Posts

  • Arts Fundraising: Engage and Inspire Your Donors
  • How you can use the Benjamin Franklin effect
  • 13 Quick tips for your next fundraising appeal
  • Can’t afford to raise money?
  • You can stop listening to excuses and raise more money

Work with me!

Let's talk about how I can help your organization raise more money.

Contact

  • Donor communications
  • Fundraising Strategy

Copyright © 2026 · Mary Cahalane · Hands-On Fundraising · 847 S. Main Street · #183 · Plantsville, CT 06479