Adding a fundraiser letter to your existing missionary trip fundraiser ideas is great for anyone hoping to make a difference. When writing a fundraiser letter, it’s important to keep in mind a few tips to make your letter more effective and convincing. First we will share some general tips. Next we will show how to use the law of reciprocity to get more donors. And finally, we will share some ideas on who to send your letters to. Let’s get started and learn how to write a mission trip fundraising letter together!
The building blocks to an effective fundraiser letter
- Start with a strong opening: Begin your letter with a compelling introduction that captures the reader’s attention and explains the purpose of the mission trip.
- Share your story: Share your personal story and why you are passionate about going on this mission trip. Be authentic and genuine in your writing.
- Explain the impact: Clearly explain the impact this trip will have on the community you will be serving and the positive change it will bring.
- Set a fundraising goal: Set a clear fundraising goal and explain how the money will be used. Be transparent about the costs involved in the trip and how the funds will be allocated.
- Include a call-to-action: Encourage the reader to support your cause by making a donation. Provide clear instructions on how to donate and include a deadline for contributions.
- Express gratitude: Thank the reader for taking the time to read your letter and for considering your cause. Let them know how much.
How the universal law of reciprocity can help you get more donations
The law of reciprocity states that people feel a sense of obligation to give back when they have received something. In the context of fundraising, this means that if you can provide something of value to your potential donors, they will be more likely to contribute to your cause.
When writing a fundraising letter for a missionary trip, you can use the law of reciprocity in several ways:
- Personalize your letter: Begin your letter by addressing the recipient by name and thanking them for their previous support, if applicable. This shows that you value their contributions and helps to build a sense of personal connection.
- Develop your story: So far you have explained why you are going on the missionary trip and what you hope to achieve. Now it is time to share personal anecdotes and experiences that demonstrate your passion and dedication to the cause. Show them how they “can come along with you” by making a small donation.
- Provide updates: If you have been on a previous missionary trip, share some of the successes and challenges you encountered. Show how your previous trips have made a difference and how your upcoming trip will build on those accomplishments.
- Offer something in return: Provide your donors with updates and photos from your trip, so they can see the impact of their contribution. You could also offer to pray for your donors or dedicate a portion of your trip to a specific cause or need that is important to them. Some foundations have has success sending stickers, post cards and calendars as a gift before asking for a donation.
- Make it easy to donate: Include a clear call-to-action and provide simple instructions for making a donation. Consider using online platforms like PayPal or Venmo to make the donation process as easy as possible.
Overall, the key to using the law of reciprocity in your fundraising letter is to focus on building relationships and showing your donors that their contributions are valued and appreciated. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood that they will give back and support your cause.
Who will you send letters to?
When deciding who to send your mission trip fundraising letter to, consider the following tips:
- Friends and family: Start by sending your letter to your close friends and family. They are most likely to support your cause and spread the word to their networks.
- Church members: If you are part of a church community, consider sending your letter to other members. Many churches support mission trips and may be willing to donate or share your letter with their own networks.
- Local businesses: Reach out to local businesses in your community and explain your cause. They may be willing to donate or sponsor your trip.
- Social media: Use social media to share your fundraising letter and reach a wider audience. Post your letter on your personal pages and ask your friends and followers to share it as well.
- Alumni networks: If you are a student or recent graduate, consider reaching out to your school’s alumni network. They may be interested in supporting your cause and can help spread the word to other alumni.
- Remember to personalize your letter and explain why you are going overseas.
BONUS TIP: Did you know you can rent a list of donors names and addresses that have donated to similiar fundraising letters in the past? This way your letter will target big hearted people with a track record of wanting to give. The IRS says this isn’t publically available information. But there are many comoanies that sell or rent these lists to you for a small fee,
Be sure to check our other ideas for effective mission trip fundraisers.