The Fundraiser’s Toolbox
You know that fundraising is hard work. To be successful you need to be well equipped to take on all its challenges. At SOFII, we thought you might like some help. So we’ve put together this fundraiser’s toolbox that we’ll be filling with essential examples, formats, articles, case studies, ideas and tips that we think every fundraiser should know about.
Direct mail clinic #9 – How deep is your nerdiness?
by Carolina Herrera
Yes, John Lepp admits he’s a direct mail nerd. And now that he’s got that confession off his chest, he wants to share as many nerdy fundraising things as possible in this clinic. It’s full of tried and tested direct mail tricks.
Read moreDirect mail clinic #10 – The direct response super-hack
by Carolina Herrera
If you’re tired of telling stories from your chief executive or director’s point of view, then you need to watch this video. Because too often, the voices we use (and their tendency to speak professionally) can get in the way of our storytelling AND our fundraising.
Read moreDirect mail clinic #11 – Thank you
by Carolina Herrera
Congratulations, you’ve made it to clinic #11. That means you have learned a lot about direct response. But as John says himself… this clinic is the most important one.
Read moreSpecial direct mail clinic – The one with Ken Burnett
by Carolina Herrera
In this first special direct mail clinic, John Lepp welcomes Ken Burnett for a chat. Ken talks to you about his newly revised and third edition of Relationship Fundraising – and explains why the book is increasingly relevant to fundraisers today. This clinic really could help shape the future of your fundraising, enjoy!
Read moreSpecial direct mail clinic – The one with Rachel Zant
by Carolina Herrera
In the next special direct mail clinic, John Lepp and Rachel Zant talk to you about the importance of infusing emotion in your appeals. Yes, this clinic explores all the feelings - from happy to sad and everything in between. If you want to ensure your appeals are emotive and effective in 2026, this is a great place to start.
Read moreThe IUCN and Lacoste: ‘Save Our Species’ partnership
by Manon Oliver
The results of this partnership speak for themselves. Funds raised – tick. Awareness raised – tick. Endangered species saved – tick. Keep reading to find out why Oxfam’s Manon Oliver admires what is a truly creative collaboration.
Read moreAs younger donors step up to donate, are charities ready for them?
by Anjali Bewtra
Younger donors are ready to give to charities, but delivering fundraising messages in the right way could make a big difference to if they choose your cause. Blue State’s Anjali Bewtra shares what fundraisers should consider when communicating with younger donors, as well as examples of charities that are already doing it well.
Read moreThe Wizard of Oz – key advice for legacy fundraisers
by Chris Millward
Join Chris Millward as he steps inside a classic film for take a walk along the ‘yellow brick road’. While doing so, he’ll take you on a journey towards legacy fundraising success.
Read moreSix essential steps to improving your supporter experience
by Natasha Evans
Creating an excellent supporter experience is a marathon, not a sprint. In this article, you will find some useful top tips for giving supporters the best experience possible.
Read moreHow to write for your most generous eyes and hands
by Lisa Sargent
Want to make sure your best givers can physically read what you write? Need to defend why you make some of the copy and design choices you do? Then don’t miss Lisa Sargent’s latest tips on making your fundraising communications accessible to older donors.
Read moreSolarAid: Lighting the way
by Richard Turner
Richard Turner, director of fundraising at SolarAid, highlights how the charity took a strategic phased approach to raising £1 million over three years. He also includes useful top tips to help you secure funding for your next new idea.
Read moreBlue Dragon Children’s Foundation: ‘Sharing a vulnerability’ emergency appeal
by Huong Thu Nguyen
Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation in Vietnam ensured urgency, consistency and transparency in their emergency appeal. As a result, the charity raised much-needed funds and recruited a number of new supporters – all during a time of crisis.
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