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Write a better fundraising appeal

A better fundraising appeal? A better fundraising appeal is simple. You’ve probably heard this before. But my mailbox says too many writers are not taking it seriously. Do you want to write a better fundraising appeal? Do you want to get read? Keep your fundraising appeal simple. I’m talking 4th to 6th grade level, simple. […]

Filed Under: Annual Giving, Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, Writing, writing for donors

Why the things you hate make good appeals

Why the things you hate make good appeals Ever seen an appeal you just hated? I mean, really hated? For most of my career, I’ve focused on annual giving – and especially on communicating with donors. I often open and look at the solicitations I receive. I usually have professional opinions on the appeals. But […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: effective fundraising, fundraising appeals, writing for donors

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 […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal letters, copywriting, writing for donors

You just haven’t earned it yet, baby: 5 ways to start

Every time I hear a frustrated fundraiser talk about donors who aren’t giving, that lyric pops into my head. (In case you don’t know, it’s thanks to Steven Patrick Morrissey and Johnny Marr, of course). I know it’s human nature to look around for someone to blame when things don’t go as planned. And right […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: appeal writing, donor appeals, donor-focused, writing for donors

Follow these rules and raise more

Here are some basic rules that I use when I write to donors. After many years writing for donors, there are a few rules I always keep in mind. Because I know when I do, what I write raises more. So consider following these rules as well. I hope they help! Rule 1. Kind beats […]

Filed Under: Blog, Donor communications Tagged With: donor communications, writing for donors

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