Author: Mark

Why all charities should thank donors

One of the most dangerous things you can do to any appeal is add a 'we don't value you enough to thank you' tick box to your donation form. They seem to offer supporter choice and some donors appear to like them, but to my...

Do we need to help?

Helping is a basic need state. Even before we are explicitly taught social rules, we seem to want to assist those in need. Whether it is because of an innate desire or because, as babies, we've had loads of opportunities to experience acts of helping...

Forgiveness or permission?

One thing that fundraising isn't short of are rules and regulations (OK, I know that's two, but I'm sure you get the picture). There are taxation regulations that define what fundraising materials must contain in order to be exempt from VAT. There are the industry...

Flashfunding - donor power in action

I've mentioned lendwithcare.org before. Rather than ask people to give money to charity, lendwithcare.org gives people a chance to end poverty by funding poor entrepreneurs in developing countries. You can read more about the site here or visit it here. The official launch is still...

Why do older people give to charity?

Here's a little research that helps shine a light on why it's predominantly older people that give money to charity – particularly through direct mail. It makes them feel good! Wow. What a shock! I heard your chin hit the floor. But what's interesting is...

Ten (eleven) best practices for online fundraisers

Sean Powell has just published a rather useful free e-book that will point anyone who isn't well versed in online fundraising in the right direction. His key points are: Set up a listening post (I'd addsamepoint.com to Sean's recommendations). Re-purpose your content (what works in...