FUNDRAISING APPEAL LETTER
This direct mail (co-written with fundraising colleague J. Shaw) was part of an award winning appeal which more than doubled the fundraising income of the previous Christmas campaign.
Imagine the joy on their little faces!
Dear Joe,
There’s something a little magical about knowing that another person cares for you, and your kindness throughout the year has meant the world to the children you sponsor.
Thank you, Joe.
If you’re like me, your Christmas preparations are well underway. You're looking forward to having friends and loved ones gather to exchange presents and enjoy a scrumptious meal.
Unfortunately, for many stressed families living in financial hardship, even the simplest of celebrations is out of reach.
The children may not expect much… but it’s Christmas, and children will always hold out that small, glimmering hope that something wonderful is about to happen.
This year, one of our generous corporate partners, <<Company>> are donating a small present to each of our sponsored children and their siblings – so they will all receive a toy, book or game to celebrate the holidays.
We know that many sponsors like to make their own special, more personal contribution as well.
That’s why, each year, we give you the opportunity to help your sponsored children celebrate Christmas – with a gift for them and groceries for their families.
Joe, if you are able to help with presents and food this year, you will be turning a glimmer of hope into a truly magical, memorable moment.
Simply use the form I’ve enclosed to tell us how much you’d like to spend on presents, and we’ll divide your gift of gift cards as evenly as we can between the children you sponsor.
If you’d like to include a donation for groceries, we’ll also send the families an equal share of the value you choose in gift cards – so they won’t miss out on having a special meal on the day.
Joe, to give your sponsored children a truly joyful Christmas, fill out the donation form, then post or email it back to us by December 4th.
We’ll make sure we send your gift cards on to the families in plenty of time for Christmas. On behalf of the entire team here at <<Charity>>, I wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday season!
With warmest thanks,
<<CEO First Name>>
Chief Executive Officer
<<Charity Name>>
P.S. I hope you enjoy the stories in the Spring edition of your <<Title>> newsletter, enclosed. Merry Christmas!