Attention Nonprofit Leaders: The Clock Is Ticking on Your Year-End Appeal!

Hey nonprofit leader, what's keeping you awake at night? Last month, I nudged you to start prepping for your annual end-of-year appeal. You know, the whole cleaning up your donor lists, double-checking addresses, and making sure you have enough donation envelopes (especially if you still mail appeals the old-fashioned way). Well, if you haven’t gotten around to writing the actual letter yet, consider this your friendly reminder: TODAY is the day to do it!

Let’s keep Maya Angelou’s wisdom front and center: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Your appeal letter should make your donors feel something—compassion, urgency, hope. Draw them into the lives of the people you serve. Make them want to be part of the solution. The best way to achieve this is through storytelling.

Your story is everything here. Paint a picture of the need and the impact their gift can have. Yes, it’s a tall order, but the secret sauce is simplicity. Explain your work as if you’re talking to a friend—no need to get overly formal. Warmth and authenticity are what motivate people to give, not buzzwords.

Make the donor—not your organization—the “hero” of the story. Spell out just how valuable each donation is. Tell stories of success and resilience and remind your readers of the dignity and potential in every person you serve. Community-centered fundraising is about respect, not pity—so let’s keep it heartfelt and real.

Now go write that letter and inspire your donors to do something amazing! Need a second set of eyes to review your letter?  I’m your go-to person! Ticking your year-end appeal off your “to-do list” now, is sure to lead to a more peaceful night’s sleep. Let’s make this year-end your most successful one yet—bring on the donations!