Writing Great Donor Letters - Part 3

If you are anything like most ministries and non-profits, you don't particularly enjoy writing your donor letters, and we totally get it! We know that it's not so much that you don't like communicating with your supporters, it's more about the weight of communicating effectively, while still keeping things short and sweet! The struggle is real, and we are hoping to take some of the mystery out of effective communication!
~ This is the last installment of a series called Creating Great Donor Letters ~

The final installment of this series will focus on the appropriate verbiage when framing a financial ask, and a few simple formatting tips. If you missed the first posts, check out how to decide what type of letter to write, and then learning how to appropriately address your donors in your letters!

The Word Need 
It can be daunting to consider all the possible faux pas when presenting a financial need for your ministry or organization. Is it rude to do a direct ask?  Is it risky to use the word need, or to come right out and say we have to have more funding? No way!

The important thing to remember is that your supporters will not be shocked or shaken when you come to them for support! You can do a direct ask without being annoying or overbearing! However, when presenting a need, we tend to overuse the actual word NEED! Need is a weak ask on it's own. Instead of using "need", consider using buzz words and phrases like:
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"Can't do it without you..."
"Take part..."
"Give today..."
"Click here to give now..."
"Down to the wire..."
"Right now..."

All of these phrases communicate urgency, and remind the supporter that your ministry or organization is waiting on their support!
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Formatting
Finally, take a look at your formatting. When you put your letter together, don't be afraid to get a little exciting with your font choices.

•  use font that COMMUNICATES THE URGENCY!
• Use bright colors
• Embed pictures 
• If you have an urgent need, it needs to be presented right away and in big, bold font. 

Finally, always feel free to contact us for us writing and editing services. That's what we are here for!

Do you have questions about an informational letter or direct ask? Do you need help proofreading and editing your letter? We are here to help you in ALL of your fundraising needs. Shilo, our Communication Coordinator, is available to assist you with any letter writing needs.  Fill out the form below if you would like her assistance, and she will contact you soon!