Hands-On Fundraising

Donor Communications

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

Scheherazade and bathtubs

When my oldest was just a little girl, she insisted that I tell her stories while in the tub. After a full day at work and several hours running after a little one, it was a rare night that I could summon the energy to make something up. So I relied on fairy tales – […]

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

Why letters are like people

Letters are like people? Let me explain. Have you ever noticed distinct personalities in the nonprofit letters you get? I find myself imaging organizational personas as I read. Here are a few. Let’s imagine a party. Glass in hand, you mingle with the crowd. Who do you meet? Letters are like people – meet some […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, direct mail, Donors, Nonprofit, relationships 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

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

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 Leave a Comment

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13

Fundraising advice served fresh to your inbox

Get yours here:

Search

Recent Posts

  • DIY Donor newsletter – yes, you can
  • Three steps you should take now to keep your donors this year
  • How to Build Your Own Donor-Centric Fundraising Strategy
  • Please don’t go! 5 ways to win donor hearts again.
  • Can we stop this in its tracks, please?

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