I made occasional annual gifts to the college in the 1980s when our children
were attending. None since.
| What letters should contain |
Text of letter |
Opening paragraph(s)
- Why are you writing me?
- What do you have to say that is of interest to me?
- What do you want me to do?
|
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Gafke:
Over the years you have been an important supporter of Columbia
College through the Community Campaign. Your gifts have enabled
us to achieve our goals of providing a quality education for the
students.
|
Body
- Show the commitment to case by letter signer
- Explain the case and urgency of making the gift
- Ask for the gift
- Provide information on impact of the gift
- Provide benefits to donor for making the gift
|
The Boone County Endowed Scholarship, established by President Gerald
Brouder two years ago, receives Community Campaign gifts in the
belief that donations by local businesses and friends should be
held in trust and given back to the community. Four scholarships
were awarded last year to Boone County students. By using only earned
interest to support scholarships, funds will be available in perpetuity.
This year, members of the Community Campaign have accepted the challenge
of raising $110,000 to add to the fund.
Columbia College serves a unique student population. While approximately
900 traditional students attend classes during the day, nearly
1500 undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled in evening
courses. Students range from recent high school graduates to adults
who have been members of the community work force for many years.
Boone County students represent approximately two-thirds of Columbia
College's enrollment.
|
Closing paragraph(s)
- Restate your case and ask again
- Tell me why you wrote me
- Tell me how I can make the gift
|
Thank you for your past support! The Community Campaign
begins February 24 and ends March 10. Please consider making a gift
to the Boone County Endowed Scholarship by March 5. You can make
a difference and provide educational opportunities for Boone County
students. If your employer will match your gift, please include
a matching request form and expand your gift's impact. Enclosed
is a pledge card and return envelope for your convenience.
|
Letter Signer
- Should be a person who can appropriately, effectively ask
for the gift
- One person should sign the letter
|
Sincerely,
(1990 graduate of the college)
Chairperson
Columbia College Community Campaign
|
Postscript
- Assume the gift will be made
- Add value to the decision
- Give donor another reason to make the gift
- Keep message consistent with main theme
|
This letter contained no postscript. |
I welcome your comments, questions or suggestions. Roger Gafke, professor
(emeritus), Missouri School of Journalism, E-mail: