Fund drives assure donations are
signed, sealed, delivered
KEVIN
MARTYN
Whether funds are needed for charitable giving,
negotiating expenses, Convention expenses or general welfare of members, your Local is under pressure to increase the amount of money it raises.
Fund drive mailings are a successful method that
can be used by Locals to raise additional funding for
their needs. However, the most successful mailings
involve attention to important details that are
sometimes overlooked. Experience has shown that
the keys to successful fund drive mailings include:
1.
Telling the Local’s story. Emphasize charitable
events and donations that the members participate in, such as fishing derbies, scholarships, Special Olympics
sponsorships, backpack giveaways, etc. Include pictures in the
letter. Residents and businesses will respond if they see all the
good works Locals do in their towns outside of patrolling.
2.
3.
Use an updated mailing list. The U.S. Postal Service says that
more than 15 percent of American citizens move every year. An
up-to-date mailing list costs very little and more than pays for
itself in added donations. Mail directly to a resident; not “occupant.” By mailing directly to a name, you develop a connection
to the person you are soliciting.
Send donation requests to all businesses in town. Businesses
are great sources of donations. Take letters to specific businesses
that have a special relationship to the PBA, such as towing, cab
and construction companies. Every business has the ability to
support its community. Make sure business managers know
what the Local does for the community. Personally handing the
fund drive letter to the business owner or manager and discussing how funds will be used can increase the probability of a
donation by that business.
4.
Give residents and businesses a chance to show they support
their local law enforcement by providing supporter stic