Happy Holidays
from Deb
I've always wanted to use this photo. I'm feeling on top of the world as I go into 2015 (or at least on top of the parking garage in downtown Atlanta).
Did you know the meaning of my company name - alinea? It's actually a French word for the paragraph symbol, and means "The beginning of a new train of thought." That's my mission - to get you thinking about things in a new way in order to get new results.
What to do if you didn't get a year-end appeal out
This is what I mean by thinking about things in a new way. If you didn't have time to get a year-end appeal out in the mail, IT'S AN OPPORTUNITY! Why? Because in addition to December being one of the best times to ask for support, January comes in second. In December, people are in the spirit of giving, fulfilling their charitable goals, and maybe looking for some last-minute tax benefits (although that's the least important reason people state for giving). In January, people have new goals for giving, feel like there's a fresh new start. Psychologically speaking, there's a huge difference in people's attitudes about giving from December 31st to January 1st.
So, if you're feeling bad about not being able to get a year-end appeal out, don't fret. But be sure to get your New Year's appeal out by mid-January.
The formula for your New Year's Appeal letter.
The first reason to use my formula is that it is based on research on how to maximize the results of an appeal letter. The more important reason to use my formula is that it is based on a genuine relationship-based approach to inspiring people to want to help your organization.
First, say THANK YOU! Begin your letter by thanking people for their support.
Second, tell people how their support has helped. Share your successes and achievements; include images and links to videos that bring these successes to life.
Third, remind people of your mission.
Fourth, announce your vision and your major priorities for 2015. Be specific about what you need in order to achieve these priorities.
Fifth, include "ask strings." An ask string is a sentence that should appear on each page of the letter that is underlined and says something like: Your gift of $1,000, $500, $250 or any amount given as a single donation or as a monthly donation to Globall Giving helps us deliver gently used sporting equipment to children around the world, including in the U.S.
Sixth, include a pledge card and small return envelope with return label and instructions for making a gift online (DO NOT INCLUDE POSTAGE). Make it very easy for someone to make a gift.
If you would like a sample year-end appeal letter (same formula as New Year appeal - I just made that name up), send me a note by clicking here.
Good luck, and don't forget to let me know how using my formula or advice helps you achieve new and better results.
Deb
P.S. If you know of a nonprofit, school (or school district) or church that could benefit by my services, please refer them. My projects range from 12-month community engagement projects that cost $15,000 to hourly coaching at $150 per hour.
