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Zoom in for more effective stories

Zoom in… How close can you get? If you want to write better, one resource I love is the Very Good Copy newsletter from Eddie Shleyner. Recently, he wrote about photography and zooming in to get a better image. He quoted photographer Robert Capa: “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.” Getting […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Fundraising Tagged With: appeal writing, donor communications Leave a Comment

How to raise more money? Less sell and more tell

Facts fail where stories sail. When I see what comes into my inbox or mailbox from nonprofits, the ones I shake my head at usually have something in common. They ask for a gift based on a list of statistics and accomplishments. And I understand the urge. You’re proud of the work you do. You’re […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, donor communications Leave a Comment

Choose Humanity: Why Real Conversations Beat Automation

Don’t automate your communication Every day it seems there’s another shiny new toy, based on AI, to make fundraising faster and easier. It’s surely tempting for an overworked nonprofit staffer with scary-big goals to hit. But while there are certainly areas that might be turned over to automation, communicating with the people who support your […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: AI, donor care, donor communications Leave a Comment

How to Elevate Your Supporter Experience in 2025: 10 Proven Strategies for Fundraisers

Supporters don’t just give to charities—they give to people, experiences, emotions, and connections. And in 2025, expectations are higher than ever. Fundraising success isn’t just about asking for money; it’s about creating meaningful supporter experiences that keep donors engaged, inspired, and coming back time and again. Here are 10 ways to enhance your supporter experience […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: donor love, donor retention, supporter experience Leave a Comment

What’s the ask?

I’m a sucker for a good story. Yesterday, despite a library book I hadn’t even started, I went to the bookstore and came home with four more novels. Lately, I’ve needed some good space opera to take me far away from our current reality. And it’s that “take me away” part that’s key for me. […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: fundraising asks, storytelling Leave a Comment

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