- Start with a powerful opening
The opening of your letter should immediately capture the reader’s attention. It should make them want to keep reading. You can begin by providing a surprising statistic, a personal anecdote, or a bold statement that highlights the urgency of your cause. Whatever approach you choose among these, make sure it is relevant to your message and sets the tone for the rest of the letter.
- Tell a story
People love reading stories. In fact, they respond to them more than they do to dry statistics or impersonal requests for donations. Therefore, tell a story in your letter that illustrates the impact of your cause on a particular group of people or communities. Share a personal story about why you are passionate about the cause and why it matters to you. While at it, keep your story focused and concise, and ensure it ties back to your appeal for support.
- Be specific about the impact of the donation
Like any other person, potential donors are more likely to donate if they know how you will use their contributions to make a difference. Therefore, when writing a fundraising letter, be specific about the impact of the donation and explain how you will use their funds. Do not just say, “your donation will help us make a difference.” Rather, give specific examples of how the donation will be used. For example, “your donation of $50 will provide one child with a school uniform and school supplies for a year.”
- Show the impact of donors’ contribution
Instead of simply saying you need help from a donor, show the impact of their contribution because donors are always interested in knowing how their money will make a difference. In your letter, illustrate the impact of donations. Mention whether it will help feed hungry families, provide medical care, or support a local shelter. Be specific about how the money or other donations will be used and what it will accomplish. Provide real-life examples of the difference their support can make.
- Use a conversational tone
People love to feel that a person and not a faceless organization wrote a fundraising letter. As such, try using a conversational tone and write as if you are talking to a friend. Use simple, straightforward, easily understood language, and avoid technical jargon or overly formal language. This will make your letter more relatable and help readers connect with your cause.
- Be grateful
Thanking your donors for their support, no matter how simple it may appear, is priceless. Therefore, never forget to thank your readers in your letter for considering your request for support, even if they do not end up donating. Being grateful shows you value your donors’ time and attention, which can help build relationships with potential donors for future asks.
- Make donating easy
While writing your letter, include a clear call to action at the end of it to direct readers to your website, a donation page, or a phone number where they can contribute. Ensure the donation process is straightforward. You can also include a FAQ page to ensure donors’ critical questions are answered conclusively.
- Be humble and respectful
Regardless of how informal your letter is, always remain humble and respectful. This will help you attract potential supporters and retain the existing ones. Doing so can also make them feel valued and important.
Generally, writing a good fundraising letter requires you to tell your story loudly enough for your potential supporters to see. With the proper letter and considerations above, you can make a difference and reach as many people as possible.
