Writing a Successful Fundraising Letter

Writing a strong fundraising letter can be the most effective way to raise money.  It’s easy, inexpensive and a great way to share your story with a lot of people.  This letter can be sent to extended family, friends, neighbors, old college roommates, training partners and just about anybody else that you can think of.  Below are a few suggestions for writing a successful fundraising letter. 

1. Make it personal
   Training for Ironman is a big part of your life.   Let people know what is motivating you to do it.  Give them an idea of the commitment it takes to train for the race. Tell them about your involvement in the Janus Charity Challenge and why it’s important to you.  Introduce them to your beneficiary and why you chose to raise money for them.   
2. Use humor
   Everybody loves a chuckle, so use humor where appropriate.
3. Short and sweet
   Keep your letter to one or two pages. If it is too long, you will lose the reader's interest.
4. Ask
   Be sure you clearly state that you are looking for help and include a specific call to action (should they write a check, donate on line, pledge you per mile, come to your fundraising event).  Tie your message into the cause of your nonprofit.  Make sure your nonprofit gives you statistics to share with your potential donors.   People will give more freely when you tug at their heartstrings and they see how their contribution really can make a difference. 
5. Communicate your goal and offer suggested giving levels
   We recommend sharing your overall fundraising goal for the Challenge and giving your donors suggested contribution levels to help you reach it. 
6. Set a deadline
   Since you must communicate your fundraising total to Janus officials by 2pm the day before the race, we suggest you set a contribution deadline that gives donors enough time to respond to your letter before this date.   
7. Let them know how to donate
   Tell donors the procedure for making a donation. It is important to make giving easy for them.  They will be more responsive if this is outlined clearly and concisely. 
8. Keep good records
   Establish a tracking procedure with your nonprofit so they can easily record all donations made through your efforts.  This will help them be prepared to verify your total contributions for Janus after the race.
9. Track your donations and be prepared to send a reminder
   Some people will respond immediately, while other may intend to respond and then simply forget.  The best way to send a gentle reminder is to give training and fundraising updates.
10. Send a thank you
    Be sure to acknowledge the gift from each of your donors and let them know how much you appreciate their support.  Again, get personal and be sure to let them know they can track your progress on race day at www.ironmanlive.com.

Good luck and have fun!!