Asking for money requires strong skills.
Nonprofit organizations rely on multiple sources of funding. Donations are usually a major contribution in helping a nonprofit to cover its expenses and operations. Writing a good donation letter is key in getting organizations, businesses and people to contribute. Unlike the case with other forms of communications, longer letters devoid of hype are usually more effective in luring in donations.
Instructions
1. Ensure that the letter is going to the right person when asking for donations from a company. Get the name of the individual in charge of making decisions about whether or not a contribution or donation can be given. This may be an executive or a public relations official.
2. Start the letter by emphasizing the good work that your nonprofit has done and how this work is benefiting the community where the company does its business or where the letter recipient lives.
3. Discuss what the nonprofit will accomplish if a donation is received and who will the donation benefit. Be specific and appeal to the recipient's heart with a sense of urgency.
4. Make mention that any gift is tax deductible and if possible acknowledge how the gift would be associated with the organization's mission or corporate giving values. Suggest a specific amount that fits with the goal of your project.
5. Thank the individual or company in advance for considering making the contribution and let her know who to write the check, money order or cashier's check to. Provide the address for where the funds should be sent, or provide a self-addressed envelope with the letter.
6. Provide the contact information and your name so the person can ask further questions if he desires. Provide a "P.S." summarizing your letter and the fundraising campaign.
