It’s smart to work with an experienced copywriter. And if you can, do hire one and learn from what they do. (Yes, I’m a copywriter. But this isn’t about me… keep reading!) But I understand that hiring a good copywriter is an expense. And I’ve been on your side of things as well. Budgets aren’t […]
They challenge your fundraising appeal. How should you respond?
Everyone has an opinion about your fundraising appeal… I do lots of copywriting. Newsletters, email appeals, and especially fundraising appeals. I love it. But over the years, I’ve also noticed I get the same questions. You too? Maybe I can help you head a few off. 1. Does the letter really have to be two (or […]
Direct mail – still not dead
Direct mail – still not dead Have you read Blackbaud’s 2016 Charitable Giving Report yet? There’s a great deal of information in this easy-to-read report. I recommend you download it. The report focuses much attention on online giving. And that channel is growing. But one sentence, in particular, stuck out to me, and I want to […]
How to write a super fundraising appeal
Do you want to write a super fundraising appeal? Here’s a quick primer. Start with a super story Find a story that illustrates the “why” of your organization. Talk to your program staff. Gather several stories and see which one is best. This won’t be the story that shows off the breadth of your programming. […]
Use these powerful triggers to raise more money. (Though your colleagues might worry.)
These powerful triggers can raise more money. I hadn’t joined a cult. I just wanted to remember these important triggers. Last week, I wrote about the importance of emotion in your fundraising. It reminded me of the emotional triggers that raise more money. And that more than once have led to raised eyebrows. You see, […]