Five Ways to Bring Innovation to Your Annual Campaign

First, offer your donors a number of giving opportunities. Send out your direct-mail piece. Follow up with a phone call for those who don't respond promptly. Send a handwritten reminder. Schedule your newsletter and provide a donation envelope to coincide with the campaign. Promote your campaign and offer a "donate now" option on each page of your Web site. Send a viral e-mail. Announce your campaign and ways to donate in the press. Hold a fundraising special event to kick off the campaign. Plan small, intimate gatherings to raise funds in support of the campaign. Develop membership opportunities with benefits.