Writing Your Fundraising Appeal Leaflet
Whether you are writing a fundraising appeal leaflet, letter, grant application or preparing to speak to local donors, these six steps will help you lay out a cohesive and persuasive fundraising ‘case for support’.
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What is the problem (or opportunity) you have identified? Why is it important? What is at risk? Is the matter urgent and why?
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What is the solution? How do you plan to fix the matter, or respond to the opportunity? Why are you the right team to address the issue?
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How much will the project cost?
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Where will the funding come from? Has the PCC pledged an amount? Have some fundraising events been held already – or are they planned? Will you be applying for grants?
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What is the shortfall likely to be after all these avenues have been explored? NB This is the amount that you are asking for a contribution towards.
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How to donate. Three easy ways to donate, including online via a QR code, by BACS transfer (sort code & account number), or in person through cash or cheque – and where to take these to.
Thank everyone. We should never take any gift for granted, so where possible thank everyone personally. A thank you letter can be a great way to include new information about the project, to show progress or to invite someone to visit.
Make the donations worth 25% more. Gift Aid declarations can be completed online if the donor uses the QR code. For others, you might include a Gift Aid declaration in the leaflet – but remember that most people will give online or via BACS. If you are able to identify your donors, consider including the Gift Aid declaration in their thank you letter, and let them know how much the tax reclaim will be worth on their donation.
Take a look at example capital appeal leaflets from Chirton, Shillingstone, Enmore Green, and Melbury Abbas. Thank you to all for sharing.
- St John the Baptist, Chirton (PDF)
- Margaret Marsh and Orchards Roof Appeal (PDF)
- Melbury Abbas Church Roof (PDF)
- Shillingstone Roof Appeal (PDF)
- St Thomas Roof Project (PDF)