Sample Fundraising Letter: An Example of a Winning Appeal

Are you tired of sending out fundraising letters that fall on deaf ears? Or perhaps you’ve never written one before and are at a loss for where to begin. Look no further, because we’ve got you covered.

Fundraising letters, when done right, can be a highly effective way to raise money for your cause or organization. But they can also be overwhelming, and it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a collection of real-life examples for you to peruse and edit as needed.

Take, for example, this letter written by a nonprofit organization to raise funds for their summer camp program. It’s heartfelt, personal, and most importantly, asks for the reader’s support in a clear and concise way. And the results speak for themselves – the organization was able to meet their fundraising goals and provide a memorable experience for their young campers.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our fundraising letter examples and start crafting your own today. With a little bit of guidance and a lot of heart, you’ll be on your way to raising the funds you need to make a real difference in the world.

The Best Structure for a Fundraising Letter

Are you looking for the best structure for your fundraising letter? Look no further. The key to a successful fundraising letter is to make it compelling, concise, and clear. In this article, we will break down the best structure for your fundraising letter using Tim Ferris’ writing style.

The first paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Use a hook and make it personal to the reader. Ask a question, tell a story, or provide a shocking statistic to get their attention. The goal is to make them want to read on.

The second paragraph should explain your cause. Clearly state the problem you are addressing and how your organization is working to solve it. Use concrete examples and statistics to illustrate your point.

The third paragraph should highlight the impact of the reader’s donation. Let the reader know how their donation will make a difference and how it will help your organization achieve its goals. Be specific and use real-world examples of how donations have made a difference in the past.

The fourth paragraph should make the ask. Clearly state what you are asking for and how the reader can donate. Provide clear instructions and make it as easy as possible for the reader to donate. If possible, include a link to an online donation page or a prepaid envelope.

The final paragraph should express gratitude. Thank the reader for their time and consideration, and let them know how much their support means to your organization. Don’t forget to include contact information for your organization so the reader can reach out with any questions or concerns.

Remember to keep your fundraising letter concise and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon or complex terms. Use short paragraphs and bullet points to make your points stand out. And don’t forget to proofread and edit your letter before sending it out to ensure that it is error-free and easy to read.

By following this structure, you can create a compelling and effective fundraising letter that will inspire readers to donate to your cause. Good luck!

Fundraising letter for animal shelter

Please help us care for homeless animals

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to appeal for your help in caring for homeless animals in our community. Our animal shelter has seen a significant increase in the number of abandoned and stray animals, and we urgently need your support to ensure they receive the care they deserve.

Your donation will help us provide shelter, food, medical care, and necessary vaccinations to these vulnerable animals. With your help, we can continue to give them a second chance at a happy and healthy life.

Please consider making a donation to our animal shelter and helping us make a real difference in the lives of these innocent animals.

Thank you for your support and kindness,

Sincerely,

The Animal Shelter Team

Fundraising letter for disaster relief

Urgent appeal for disaster relief

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to appeal for your help in providing disaster relief to those affected by the recent [Disaster name]. The people in the affected areas are in desperate need of assistance, and your donation could help make a significant difference in their lives.

Your contribution will help us provide essential resources, including food, water, shelter, clothing, and medical aid, to those impacted by the disaster. With your help, we can bring hope and support to these communities in need.

We appreciate any support you can offer. Together, we can make a difference and help those who are most vulnerable during this difficult time.

Thank you for your generosity,

Sincerely,

The Disaster Relief Team

Fundraising letter for education support

Please help us support education for all

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to ask for your support in providing education for all children, regardless of their financial background. Education is the foundation for a better future, and we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow.

Your donation will help us provide disadvantaged children with access to quality education, including school supplies, textbooks, uniforms, and teacher training. With your help, we can break the cycle of poverty and ensure that every child has an equal chance to succeed.

Please consider making a donation to support our education initiatives. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of many children.

Thank you for considering this request for support.

With appreciation,

The Education Support Team

Fundraising letter for environmental conservation

Join us in protecting the environment

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to ask for your support in preserving and protecting the environment for future generations. The natural world is facing unprecedented threats from climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, and we urgently need your help to address these challenges.

Your donation will help us support conservation efforts, including tree planting, reforestation, marine life protection, and wildlife conservation. With your help, we can create a better world for ourselves and for our children.

We appreciate any support you can provide. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for all.

Thank you for your consideration,

Sincerely,

The Environmental Conservation Team

Fundraising letter for health care support

Please help us provide health care for all

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to ask for your support in providing healthcare for all, regardless of their economic status. Poor health is a significant barrier to success and well-being, and we believe it should not be a luxury available to only a few.

Your donation will help us provide essential services, including medical check-ups, vaccination drives, maternal and child health care, and disease prevention programs. With your help, we can create a healthier and happier world for all.

Please consider making a donation to our healthcare initiatives. Together, we can make a real difference in people’s lives, one healthcare service at a time.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Best regards,

The Healthcare Support Team

Fundraising letter for social justice

Stand with us for social justice

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to ask for your support in promoting social justice and equity for all members of our community. Racism, inequality, and discrimination have no place in a just society, and we are committed to working towards a better world for all.

Your donation will help us support projects that promote social equity, including awareness campaigns, community engagement, and advocacy efforts. With your help, we can create a world that is more fair and just for all.

Please join us in standing up for social justice and supporting our initiatives. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Thank you for your support and solidarity.

Best wishes,

The Social Justice Team

Fundraising letter for women’s empowerment

Help us empower women and girls

Dear [Donor Name],

We are writing to ask for your support in promoting the empowerment of women and girls worldwide. Empowering women is not only a matter of fairness and equity but also a way to create more sustainable and peaceful societies.

Your donation will help us support projects that promote gender equity, including ending violence against women, increasing access to education and financial resources, and empowering women to participate in their communities as leaders.

Please consider making a donation to our women’s empowerment initiatives. With your help, we can create a world where women and girls can thrive and reach their full potential.

Thank you for your support in advancing the equality of women and girls.

Warm regards,

The Women’s Empowerment Team

How to write an impactful fundraising letter:

1. Start with a strong opening:

Your opening should be concise and compelling, as it will set the tone for your entire fundraising letter. Consider highlighting the urgency of your cause, expressing gratitude for past donations, or sharing a powerful story that illustrates why your organization’s work matters.

2. Make it personal:

When writing your fundraising letter, remember that you’re trying to build a connection with your supporters. Speak directly to them by using their name, and consider sharing information about your organization’s impact on a specific community or individual. By showcasing how donations have made a difference in the past, you can inspire your supporters to give once more.

3. Be specific:

Donors want to know exactly where their money is going and how it will be used. Be sure to explain how the funds raised will directly benefit your organization’s mission. Whether you’re raising money for a specific project or for ongoing operations, provide clear details regarding how much money you need and what it will accomplish.

4. Include a call to action:

End your fundraising letter with a clear and concise call to action. This could entail asking your supporters to make a donation, sign up to volunteer, or share your message on social media. Be sure to provide clear instructions as to how to take action and don’t be afraid to use emotive language that motivates your supporters to take action.

5. Add a personal touch:

Consider including a handwritten note or signature to reinforce your appreciation for your supporters. This will add a personal touch and separate your fundraising letter from the generic mass-printed ones that many donors receive. This will help to show how dedicated you are to your cause and how important the donations are to your organization.

Fundraising Letter Example FAQs


What is a fundraising letter?

A fundraising letter is a written request for financial support for a specific cause or organization. It usually includes information about the organization’s mission, goals, and the impact a donation can make.

What should be included in a fundraising letter?

A fundraising letter should include information about the organization, its mission and the cause it is advocating for, the impact a donation can make, and a clear call-to-action. It should also be personalized, engaging and written in a compelling way.

How can I make my fundraising letter stand out?

To make your fundraising letter stand out, you should personalize it and make it engaging by sharing success stories, photos, and testimonials. Use a clear and concise language and highlight the impact a donation can make. Make sure to use a clear call-to-action.

How can I address the recipients of my fundraising letter?

You can address the recipients of your fundraising letter by using their first name if you have that information. If you don’t, you can use a generic greeting like “Dear Supporter” or “Dear Friend”. Make sure to thank them for their ongoing support and interest in your cause.

Can I mention specific donation amounts in my fundraising letter?

Yes, you can mention specific donation amounts in your fundraising letter. This can make the letter more personalized and specific to the recipient. Make sure to also include the option for a custom donation amount.

What should I include in the postscript of my fundraising letter?

The postscript of your fundraising letter should include a clear call-to-action and a reminder of the impact a donation can make. You can also include a deadline or special promotion to incentivize donations. Additionally, you can include a thank you message for their ongoing support.

How should I follow up after sending my fundraising letter?

You can follow up after sending your fundraising letter by sending a personalized thank you message and an update on the impact of the donations received. You can also offer additional opportunities for the recipient to support your cause or ask for feedback on your fundraising efforts.

Thanks for Joining Our Fundraising Efforts!

We hope this example of a fundraising letter has been helpful to you in your own fundraising efforts. Remember that every little bit counts and with the right approach, you can make a big difference in the lives of those in need. Don’t forget to visit us again for more tips, stories, and inspiration to take your fundraising efforts to the next level. Thanks for reading!