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.
Have I told you lately that I love you? Part one
by Derek Humphries
In this two-part article, Derek Humphries offers some really valuable advice on how to develop the relationship with your agency in all its stages, from initial courtship all the way through to an amicable divorce at the end of the project. And he tackles the issue of pre-nuptial agreements, what to do if it all goes wrong and, just as importantly, what to do if it all goes right…
Read moreHow to find your inner writer
by Elizabeth Loudon
One of the best tips to find your inner writer is to steal one. So says Elizabeth Loudon here. You’ll also find other ideas and advice to help you force your inner writer into the open and write great letters that your donors will keep responding to for years.
Read moreHello! Testing! Testing! Testing!
by Andrew Papworth
Andrew Papworth says that testing is a vital part of good fundraising.
Read moreIt’s hard work being a client these days. Part 2
by Andrew Papworth
We won’t be surprised if you have been putting off starting to prepare your brand book because it appears to be an awful lot of work. Now Andrew Papworth shows just how important it is and how it will actually save you time when preparing your successful fundraising campaigns.
Read moreIt’s hard work being a client these days. Part 1
by Andrew Papworth
A brand book is possibly the most important document that you could have if you really want to be an effective client and get the best from your suppliers Andrew Papworth explains why it is so important and how to go about the daunting task – and make no mistake it is – of preparing one. With his guidance it will be made easier.
Read moreGood money going begging
by Andrew Papworth
Fundraisers in the UK just aren’t making enough of payroll giving, or Give As You Earn, says Andrew Papworth. Is it time for a drive to publicise its many benefits?
Read moreAn opportunity grabbed and one wasted
by Andrew Papworth
It seems that when one opportunity is grasped another slips passed. The ‘IF’ campaign has a powerful message, but do you agree with Andrew Papworth when he says that they haven’t managed to get it across?
Read moreDon’t take research findings at face value
by Andrew Papworth
You are always being encouraged to know your donors, who they are and why they give. Research is a good way to learn this. But, warns Andrew Papworth, you should be suspicious if, like the findings here, full methodology isn’t given.
Read moreWorking with suppliers: building partnerships based on value for money
by Mark Astarita
Click here to find out why Britain’s No 1 fundraiser thinks the relationship between client and supplier is so important. And why a few training sessions on how to be a good client (and supplier) would be a welcome addition to any fundraising conference.
Read moreThe ad that trivialises tragedy
by Jeff Brooks
Jeff Brooks has some more severe words for ad agencies and their questionable campaign creations for charities.
Read moreBe womankind?
by Andrew Papworth
SOFII is all about celebrating and sharing great fundraising ideas so that we can all become a little more successful ourselves. But here Andrew Papworth, author of fundraising newsletter, Harvest, suggests that an Oxfam advert unveiled for International Women’s Day isn’t exactly top of the list to take fundraising notes from. What do you think?
Read moreNothing is stupid about this
by Jeff Brooks
SOFII regular, Jeff Brooks has identified yet another stupid nonprofit advert. In this example he claims that what could have been an unusual, quirky and ultimately successful fundraising product was de-railed by the self-indulgence of its creators. Do you agree?
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