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You talking to me? Or why you must focus on donor retention

My mailbox leaves me wondering. We’ve all been reading a lot about donor retention. Maybe so much talk it’s in danger of becoming just another buzzword. But I think it’s critically important. And I’ve seen how powerful a really engaged donor base can be. Organizations benefit from more support, sure. But there’s also something about […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications, Thanks Tagged With: annual appeals, donor retention, thank you letters 10 Comments

If I was really your friend, you’d know my name

If I was really your friend, you’d know my name, right? You’re busy now, getting those appeals ready for the most wonderful time of the year. I know how busy it can get. But don’t forget the role good data and personalization play in your success or failure. I’m amazed at how many “Dear Friend” […]

Filed Under: Annual Giving, Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: annual appeals, donor relations, personalization 11 Comments

Writing, simply

I was helping a client with an appeal the other day. I found myself explaining some of the choices I made in the letter. At this point, they were almost automatic for me. I realized not everyone knows there are some simple changes you can make that will improve your appeal. When I get a rough draft, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: annual appeals, appeal writing, fundraising writing, writing for donors 2 Comments

Go ahead, make me

Have you ever wanted to say “make me!” in response to an appeal? Some frequently used packages always crack me up. I know these are so common because they work – though I’m not sure how “work” is defined, especially in the long term. There’s the nickel pack. No, wait, we’re up to a dime. (I […]

Filed Under: Annual Giving, Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: annual appeals, appeal writing, donor-focused, fundraising appeals 3 Comments

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