how do I write a better fundraising letter?

bluxx · **how do I write a better fundraising letter? -** 10-09-2006, 09:05 PM

I recently put together (with help) this letter for a Christian radio station who are seeking donations. Each letter was personalised with a signature and P.S. I have put in the basic text and would appreciate any feedback on improving this as we will look at another letter in a around 6 weeks. I really appreciate any feedback...

Rob

(letter

You have a friend in Life FM.

We both know that Life FM is more than a radio station. For 120,000 South Australians*, like you and me, Life FM is a trusted friend. We turn to Life FM for many different reasons. There are those who enjoy the positive atmosphere of Life FM, while others enjoy the great family-friendly entertainment. Then there is our music: an uplifting combination of current favourites and of course the best of Christian music to touch, move and inspire. And most importantly, we all turn to Life FM to uplift our spirits in these challenging times.

Please take a brief moment and imagine your days without Life FM.
If you are like me, it would be like losing a dear friend.
As you know, we receive no government funding and very few grants. Added to this, we operate within the strict sponsorship restrictions of our non-commercial licence. Honesty is vital for a friendship to prosper. I say to you Life FM faces a major challenge, a test of faith if you like. It costs $4,000 per day to keep Life FM on air. Approximately $1,700 per day is received from radio sponsorship and existing pledge partners. We currently have enough money to keep Life FM on air until 11th October 2006.

Yes we need your generous help, we need your prayers and your donations.
We regard you as a dear friend. We know this because you show faith in supporting Life FM.

I write with thanks and to ask of you two things:

1. Pray with me for the generosity of spirit to be with all co-partners, so we may raise enough funds to continue transmitting the "good news" about Jesus Christ.
2. And help me keep Life FM on air and true to its mission. So please send your tax deductible donation of $25, $50, $100 or more today.
While it is always difficult and uncomfortable asking for money, it is a necessity for Life FM due to the restrictions we have upon us being a not-for-profit community station. Therefore without your donations we simply cannot continue, so in advance – thank you for any donation you can give. It really is greatly appreciated.

P.S. Yes, we need your help, freely you have received the blessings of Life FM, so please freely give so we may continue God’s work.

SecretSalesWeapon · 10-09-2006, 09:34 PM

Unfortunately I don't have time to show an example of this.. maybe I can come back to this in a couple days. But...

...what about appealing to the people who want this message to continue getting out to others they believe need to hear it.

Maybe some of your readers haven't actually listened to the station in a while, but wouldn't want the station to disappear because of their beliefs.

Cheers,
Stephen

mtmmrkt · 10-09-2006, 10:01 PM

You might want to pick up a copy of:

The Mercifully Brief, Real World Guide to Raising $1,000 Gifts By Mail

You can get it at Amazon. It has some good fundraising letter examples as well as a theory for prospecting for donations.