Sanky Blog

It is both interesting and counter-intuitive, but many donors give through the direct mail fundraising because they are attracted by the anonymity it promises. So when those originally-direct mail donors up their giving level and move into mid-range or bridge donor status, you may try to call or visit them. But you should not be surprised when they are not receptive. They may very well be reluctant to give up their arm’s length relationship with your organization.

So what do you do? You mail them special packages: personalized “invitation” appeals; “proposal” mailings; handwritten notes or cards; you try to establish an email relationship or move them online, preferably to a designated area just for them.

Of course you won’t forget to thank them lavishly and send stewardship pieces to keep them informed about what their gifts are accomplishing.

SCI has found that such direct mail fundraising techniques can upgrade the giving of these donors without challenging their anonymity.