Writing Good Fundraising Letters

When an organization launches a fundraising campaign, much of its success depends on the donors who would support the campaign.   To persuade donors to give their support,

fundraising letters are often sent.  What makes a fundraising letter effective? What are exact details that should be contained in your letter? 

A fundraising letter need not be too long to the point that it bores the recipient.  However, it should be able to provide enough information about the fundraising drive and its purpose.  Remember that your prospective donor may have some questions about the nature of the campaign, the scope of the campaign and the organizers behind the fundraising project.

Of course, donors would be very interested to know who the beneficiaries would be of a particular fundraising.  Where will the proceeds go and how will the money be spent?  It is best to provide these important details in your fundraising letters.  Giving the exact details about how the proceeds of the fundraising campaign would be utilized erases doubts or possible hesitations.

By giving all the important details in your fundraising letter, it would be easier to convince a prospect to willingly support your cause.  If stating all these details mean writing a longer letter, then that would be acceptable.  Donors would appreciate it more if they clearly understand what they’re participating in.

However, never try to oversell when writing a fundraising letter.  Do not be tempted to exaggerate the facts just to get your reader’s sympathy.  A donor would easily know if the story in the letter is just hype or if it is the truth.  Instead of convincing them to help, not telling the truth would only annoy or frustrate a recipient.

Furthermore, avoid using words that are complicated or ambiguous.  See to it that your point is stated clearly.  Use simple terms that are easily understandable.  You may also add photos when appropriate.  A photo of the beneficiaries of the fundraising campaign is also an effective way of getting your donor’s attention.

When writing fundraising letters, be sure to proofread the letter before sending them out to your recipients.  Make sure there are no grammatical errors, typographical errors or incorrect use of punctuation marks.  Also, see to it that the envelopes are correctly addressed.  Do not forget to include your return address as well.  Make sure that the letter is neatly folded inside.  Be professional in sending your fundraising letter and bear in mind that your letter can make a difference on how donors would support your cause.