Back-to-Basics Approach Helps Charities Weather the Bad Economy

Ms. Steketee started adding that special touch when the recession began making it tougher to raise money, and it is one reason that even in one of the states hardest hit by the economy, the theater’s donations from individuals and corporations have risen by more than 3 percent in the past year.

Across the country, many other fund raisers are intensifying their efforts to make solicitations more personal and taking other steps to focus on appeals that yield the best results.