Hands-On Fundraising

Donor Communications

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

Want some action? Use emotion.

Years ago, on vacation, as I read 2312, by Kim Stanley Robinson a phrase stopped me cold. I had to dog-ear the page. “Reason can’t work without emotion. People who are cut off from their emotions can’t decide.” Reason can’t work without emotion. People who are cut off from their emotions can’t decide. So, ok, […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: direct mail, emotional writing, writing for donors 16 Comments

Rewrite!

I received a letter I itched to fix. It needed a rewrite – badly. It was sent on behalf of my elementary school by an organization that seems to be doing the same appeal for Catholic elementary schools all over NJ. Not exactly a warm and fuzzy start, right? It opens with a lot of talk about how […]

Filed Under: Annual Giving, Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, direct mail appeals, emotional writing, fundraising asks, rewrites 11 Comments

Fundraising advice served fresh to your inbox

Get yours here:

Search

Recent Posts

  • How to Write the Perfect Donor Appeal Letter to Boost Individual Giving
  • How to avoid the magic fundraiser trap
  • Boost Your Year-End Fundraising: 4 Financial Management Tips
  • Human. Connection.
  • Maximising Small Donations: How to Inspire Supporters to Give More

Work with me!

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

Contact

  • Donor communications
  • Fundraising Strategy

Copyright © 2025 · Mary Cahalane · Hands-On Fundraising · 847 S. Main Street · #183 · Plantsville, CT 06479