Fundraising letters can be sent to both individuals and businesses.
Charities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals often create fundraising campaigns to solicit donations. Creating a fundraising letter is a simple, but necessary tool in any fundraising campaign. Fundraising letters should convey the need for a donation, why a donation should be made, and make the donation. Letters can be distributed by either e-mail or regular mail, but they must be written well to motivate businesses and individuals to contribute to your cause.
Instructions
1. Search online for sample fundraising letters. Review sample letters on such websites as Fundraiser Help or Better Fundraising Ideas. Look at successful fundraising websites, such as Susan G. Komen for the Cure or the American Heart Association. Decide which wording has the most impact, and make note of it. Print any samples you'd like to keep for reference, or sothers.
2. Create your own sample fundraising letter. Select a professional letter template in a word processing program such as Microsoft Word. Be descriptive. Tell the story of the cause you're hoping to promote in your lead paragraph. For example, if you're raising donations for an animal shelter, briefly describe one animal's story, from the plight of being homeless, to the joy of adoption.
In a separate paragraph, write a detailed statement about the organization or individual for whom donations are being raised. Explain the larger mission of the organization, and why it's worthy of financial support. Finally, request a donation, and inform the reader of how and where to donate. Include the contact information of the person in charge of the fundraiser, should the reader have additional questions.
3. Address your letter to the appropriate decision-maker at the business or businesses you're targeting. Many business websites include staff and contact information, such as a mailing address and e-mail addresses. Target the chief executive officers and/or the marketing director for the company. Call and ask the receptionist, if you can't find contact information online.
4. Mail, e-mail or deliver the letters in person. Call and ask for a short appointment with the individual at the business you're targeting. Hand-deliver the sample letter to the businessman and explain the reason for your visit. Keep the visit short, and leave your business card along with the letter. Thank him for his time and consideration.
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