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.

People who have more money can give more away

by Mark Phillips

The impact of the pandemic means many people, particularly older donors, are wealthier. Mark Phillips of Bluefrog Fundraising offers you some simple ways to adjust your approach to mid-level donors as you plan for 2021.

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The Bata Shoes story

by Ken Burnett

In this article from his archive, SOFII founder Ken Burnett muses on how fundraisers should look at the world and our profession. He also draws unexpected inspiration from the number one shoe company in Africa.

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How to show the right gratitude attitude to new e-mail subscribers

by Ephraim Gopin

The first e-mail you send to new subscribers is crucial, as it will inform whether or not they open any subsequent messages. In this handy guide, Ephraim Gopin explains how to ensure you start off on the front foot.

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Why coronavirus has been UNICEF’s catalyst for change in face-to-face fundraising

by Daniel McDonnell

The pandemic has hit all areas of fundraising hard, but none more so than face-to-face. Here, Daniel McDonnell of UNICEF shows you how the crisis has transformed their approach to street fundraising.

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Should you enthusiastically promote legacy giving when people are dying?

by Claire Axelrad

Is it a good time to be asking your donors to leave a legacy? Claire Axelrad explores this difficult question and comes to some thought-provoking conclusions.

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Introducing Fulfilled Fundraisers, a new learning platform for fundraisers

by Joe Burnett

Now, more than ever, fundraisers want to connect with their peers and help each other. Thankfully there’s a space where you can learn from the best in the business, without even needing to leave your desk: Fulfilled Fundraisers.

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Communication and the English language

by Ken Burnett

Ken Burnett tackles bad use of the English language in fundraising and explains why getting this crucial matter right can make all the difference.

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The Olive Cooke story

by Ken Burnett

How the tragic case of Olive Cooke impacted the fundraising sector and led to radical change.

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The Salvation Army: Coronavirus response campaign

by Gemma Reeve

This multi-platform campaign shows the importance of flexibility in fundraising, especially during the time of coronavirus.

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Top tips to help you get the most out of IWITOT

by Craig Linton

SOFII trustee and fundraising consultant Craig Linton shares eight ways to get the most out of your attendance at a fundraising event like I Wish I’d Thought of That (IWITOT). Don’t let the learning end when the session finishes. 

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Marie Curie: Alpaca Meet & Greet

by Meredith Niles

Marie Curie fundraisers were inspired by an innovative fundraising idea they saw at I Wish I’d Thought of That (IWITOT) 2020. The team worked quickly to turn the idea into a quirky, low-cost campaign featuring alpacas on video calls.

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A bad ad at a bad time

by SOFII

Domestic violence has been on the rise during the coronavirus pandemic, so Women’s Aid wanted to highlight the issue and ask for donations. However, this bad ad shows how not to try and raise money. 

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