Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Red Cross SMS appeal for Haiti raises $8M in 2 days

Mobile giving has reached new heights with consumers, according to a January 15th article on mobilemarketer.com. Consumers donated more than $8 million from their mobile phones for Haiti disaster relief. In just over two days last week, the Red Cross’ SMS campaign had seen the largest outpouring of charitable support via text in history. This trumps the previous mobile giving records; $400,000 that was collected via mobile for Katrina in 2005. According to MGive, most of the mobile giving has been from New York (10.6%) and California (15.6%). The amount of mobile donations the Red Cross has seen has made it clear to other nonprofit organizations that this is a channel for them to tap new donors.

Has this phenomenon made you consider putting SMS into your strategy?

Labels: fundraising, sms

Friday, December 4, 2009

Get warm & fuzzy with the Pink Glove Dance

What a great way to start a Friday... Our Kathy Duggan-Josephs forwarded me an email this morning. One of those where she got it from a friend who got it from a friend, which probably has a poem and a picture of a puppy in it. But instead, I found this message and an awesome fundraising and awareness video for breast cancer:

Go Pink!

Our daughter-in-law, Emily Somers, created, directed and choreographed this in Portland last week for her Medline glove division as a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness. This was all her idea to help promote their new pink gloves. I don't know how she got so many employees, doctors and patients to participate, but it started to really catch on and they all had a lot of fun doing it.

When the video gets 1 million hits, Medline will be making a huge contribution to the hospital, as well as offering free mammograms for the community. Please check it out. It's an easy and great way to donate to a wonderful cause, and who hasn't been touched by breast cancer?

Ann Somers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEdVfyt-mLw

Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Go pink!

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, video

Friday, November 6, 2009

RMI gets pink!

RMI held our first annual Pink on Purpose fundraiser for breast cancer research today, thanks to Martin Stein’s suggestion. We think the day was a big success, everybody had a good time and for a good cause.

We started off the day with a Pink Pancake breakfast and kept it going with a raffle for pink gifts, which raised AICR over $265. Everyone competed for the Pinkest Person in the office today too, with Lisa Davis sealing the win with her hand-dyed pink sneakers.

If you want to check out some photos of our day, check them out on Flickr. Also, if you'd like to donate to AICR's breast cancer research, you can do that here.

Labels: client, fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Pink On Purpose

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) has started Pink on Purpose to draw attention to the fact that 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. With these alarming numbers they want everyone to know that early detection is the best way for prevention.

Participation is simple. Just pick a date, any date that works for you, and then sign up on their website. You will receive a package full of supplies including decorations and more information on how to donate if you want. Each person who wants to be involved donates $5.00 and on your designated date you wear pink, the symbol for breast cancer awareness. It's easy and it goes to a worthy cause.

Labels: client, fundraising, nonprofit

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Retro is in at ALA

In the New York Times last week there was an article addressing the effects of this economic downturn and how it’s generated a trend of innovative, or if you will, retro thinking. Volkswagen featuring the 1964 Beetle in commercials and Nationwide Insurance resurrecting its “Nationwide is on your side” catchphrase are examples.

American Lung Association is no exception. In an effort to stem the decrease in donations ALA is interjecting modern flair into their century old Christmas Seals promotions. This popular promo, which mailed millions of decorative stamp-sized seals for Xmas card envelopes, was extremely successful over the decades up until the early 90s. Coinciding TV spots included A-List celebrity endorsers such as John Wayne and Gary Cooper. However, as ALA’s original mission of fighting tuberculosis expanded to include contemporary respiratory threats such as air pollution and smoking, their Christmas Seals promo remained relatively unchanged. Though Wayne and Cooper aren’t with us anymore, in the new TV spot a modern actor is shown lighting a gas lamp which goes into freeze frame then morphs into a seal, the exact seal from decades earlier and as a voice intones. “In 1946, the American Lung Association added clear skies to America’s Christmas wishes” as the seal is pressed onto to an envelope the voiceover continues, “For over 100 years your gifts to Christmas Seals have helped us fight for healthy lungs and air. Celebrate another year.”

The average direct mail donor to Xmas Seals ALA is 68 year old females. Only 10% of respondents aged 25-34 said they were “very familiar” with Xmas Seals. Compared to nearly half of those over 65.

ALA’s hoping to create more awareness in the younger audience by putting this ad, and other new retro ads, not only on TV but on-line with a Facebook application for sending virtual Xmas Seals to friends.

Real innovative thinking from a time past. Here’s to its success.

Labels: client, direct mail, fundraising

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Online fundraising roadmap: 101 for the interactive novice

Read a piece today from the DM News, speaking about Dos and Don’ts of Online Fundraising.

For a person raised in the direct mail world, online fundraising can sound intimidating to say the least - but if you look at the suggestions, strategies and tactics noted, you’ll find them sounding very familiar. Use personalization wherever possible, as it improves results; track every piece of outgoing email so you can determine the source; test copy in the subject line.

All of these strategies are very much like tactics nonprofit mailers have always done. Personalize your mail piece, make sure you code the mail piece so you can read list and package results, and test, test, test. The two channels are much more alike then different.

The 4 experts quoted in the article go on to give some simple, but very useful tips. Learn from every person’s actions and non actions; don’t skip over small details; never stop building prospect and email files.

In my eyes one of the true powers of the online media is how it can be utilized to bring your organizations message and mission to people through others. Ask your constituents to be stewards for your cause. Interact with people in ways that are important to them individually. Inspire people!

Labels: fundraising, Internet, nonprofit

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Check please! Pairing nonprofits with restaurant chains

Salvation Army around the holidays, The Jimmy Fund at grocery stores, donations at online checkouts - asking for money at a time when consumers are already purchasing for themselves (or others) is obviously a successful fundraising tactic.

I had an idea while getting ready for work this morning that I think would be a knock out. A partnership between a nonprofit organization (Food For The Poor would be perfect!) and a restaurant chain (Chili's, Outback, Olive Garden etc) to strategically place a $1 appeal directly on the bill ala the mock-up below...

The restaurant would benefit from appearing philanthropic, and the nonprofit... need I say more?

If someone's already done this, was it successful? Please speak up!

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

How to gain more online donations

Like anyone, I like to consider myself a generous, caring, compassionate person. But as a wife and mother with a career, I rarely find myself with the time, let alone patience, to dig for my credit card and enter in all my billing information to make an online donation.

It's happened time and again where I receive an email promotion for a cause I love, click through to make a donation, and abandon the site because I couldn't spare another 5 minutes to fill out the forms...

A simple solution: PayPal - the popular payment option used on eBay.com. (And no, this is not a plug :))

Why not give your online audience two options to make a donation - 1) standard credit card entry and 2) PayPal. To the general public, PayPal is free, secure, and only requires a one time registration process to fill in your credit/bank information where it is permanently stored thereafter. So as a user, when you want to make an online donation (or consumer purchase), all you have to do is enter your dollar amount, email address, and confirm. Donation made.

I found this article "Fundraising with PayPal", by Deane Brengle, which talks about the same concept in more detail including any fees involved to the nonprofit.

Here are a couple examples of organizations using PayPal:

Washington Physicians Health Program l Donation Site
Soldiers' Angels l Donation Site l PayPal Case Study
Bob Woodroff Foundation l Donation Site

You can also register your nonprofit to receive donations through eBay via MissionFish.org. (Thanks to Alan Yu for that tid-bit!).

Tip: Once you're set up with PayPal, take it a step further and promote the new donation feature, and how quick and easy it is to use, in your outgoing email promotions.

Labels: fundraising, Internet, nonprofit

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Martin's Moonlighters

On Friday, June 5th I participated in the Annual Moonlight 5k Road Race. I have been competing for years in these types of events. But this race had a little extra meaning because I was part of a team called Martin’s Moonlighters (fitting name), for our Martin Stein. One of Martin’s friends formed the team to bring awareness and to raise some money for cancer research. In doing so she also gathered some of his closest friends to engage in a healthy activity. It sure did rain that night but it didn't stop us from having fun.

Labels: employees, fundraising

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Step away from your computer today and get on your feet!

Lace up your sneakers and be a part of the first ever National Running Day today, June 3rd. The United States running industry has announced this unprecedented effort to promote running as a healthy, easy and accessible form of exercise for Americans of all ages and fitness levels according to Active.com.

To participate all you need to do is grab your friends, your kids or your dog and go for a walk or run today. "Everyone can run. That's the message of this day," said New York Road Runners president and CEO Mary Wittenberg. It is a simple, economical way to exercise that can be done almost anywhere.

After your run make sure to log on to RunningDay.org to download an "I'm a Runner / I Ran Today" Facebook button and interact with other runners. You will also find information on local community events, retailers, training tips and other running-related information.

You could also run for a fundraising cause that's dear to our hearts, this Friday, June 5th.

Labels: fundraising, health

Friday, April 3, 2009

Is it summer yet?

You would think it must be based on the number of people who went running into Lake Mahopac last weekend. Unfortunately, the water was a tad colder then one would hope, but the cause was far greater then just a refreshing dip. About 250 divers, jumpers, walkers, took to the frigid waters in a showing of solidarity in their fight against Cystic Fibrosis.

Yes, March 28th, was the date for this years Freezin for a Reason. The 8th year of the local event, to raise money for research for Cystic Fibrosis, was held in Mahopac. I participated for the second year, and although my outfit was toned down a bit this year, from last, my enthusiasm certainly was not.

The event is coordinated & planned by the Stack family and some phenomenally dedicated volunteers, who work tirelessly to raise money that will find a cure for this horrible disease. The actual jump only lasts for about a minute, but the effects can be felt by many for a lifetime.

CFF is a long time client of RMI’s, and a wonderful organization who makes sure that 90 cents of every dollar that is raised goes directly to research. New developments are being made every day. It is rewarding to know that in some little way we are helping to provide more birthdays for children in our and other communities.

I am happy to report that monies in excess of $75,000 were raised this year. The jump was followed by a reception at the Mahopac Golf Course.

Labels: employees, fundraising, nonprofit

Thursday, April 2, 2009

YouTube overlay raises $10,000 for nonprofit in one day

This is great news for nonprofits. YouTube has released a new "Call to Action overlay", available to all fundraisers who are registered on the site as a nonprofit. (If your organization hasn't already, you can apply for free here).

The overlay is a way for nonprofits to add a translucent footer to their video which prompts viewers to contribute with a link to the donation site. This past Sunday, a video for charity:water was overlayed and promoted on YouTube's homepage - resulting in over $10,000 raised.

Thanks to Darryl at Brandflakes for pointing this out.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Nonprofits feel the economic pinch too

In an article published by The Non Profit Times reporting from the AFC in New Orleans, we learn that, not surprisingly, nonprofits had a terrible year in 2008. Not only compared with 2007 but since 2000/2001.

The number one culprit: the economy. And it was not just felt in one area of giving but in all channels. Major gifts, annuities, online, offline and direct mail all saw a drop off. Is anyone surprised at this?

What we are seeing is a decline in the quantities of names to be mailed. Mailers are mailing less due to greater postage costs. Yielding fewer new names for others to rent or exchange profitably. The fewer the profitable names to mail, the smaller the mailings.

Time for the broken record... role back the postage rates.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Thursday, March 19, 2009

First time online givers often never return

A New York Times article reports that people who go online to make a first time donation more often than not do not return to make future donations. The study examines 24 nonprofit groups and the study was done by Target Analysis Group.

Whereas the demographics of an online giver are very attractive; upscale, well educated etc. they rarely give an additional gift.

Why? Is it because they were swayed by media outlets to give to a natural disaster (IE Katrina or the Asian Tsunami) and are not really involved with the nonprofit's cause? Another possibility is that donors who give online are often dumped into that charities DM file and are solicited by there standard DM methods. Maybe they should be segregated into online and offline and solicited separately. (If you're not already doing that).

This is the $64,000.00 question. How to break into this market in a meaningful way.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Will the Administration reconsider charitable tax deductions?

Over the past few weeks the Administration has been wavering over how to fund the new stimulus package. One recommendation was to limit the percentage of deductions for charitable donations along with limits on deductions for home mortgages. An article in the Wall Street Journal sites that this could have lost donations over $4 billion dollars if done in 2006. Who knows how much it could hurt in 2011 when it is proposed to begin. Now the Administration may be reconsidering this but it is still very unclear.

As the article points out, we'd like to think that people donate out of a desire to do good but let's face it... a healthy tax deduction can go a long way to loosen the purse strings and feel just as good.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Monday, March 9, 2009

2008 year end fundraising results for benchmarking

The Agitator shared some cliff notes from a Mal Warwick Associates report about direct mail returns seen from their clients' mailings. The majority of clients saw a decline in mailings; with the bulk being acquisition.

Good news in this economy... most saw a slight increase in revenue per piece. End result per Peter Schoewe; "the bottom did not fall out of direct mail fundraising". I’m thankful for this news. Comments?

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Off come my clothes!

And on goes a bathing suit (whew!) All for a great cause, raising money to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Counting down the days, until I get the opportunity to once again participate in the 8th Annual Freezin for a Reason jump into Lake Mahopac. The event is scheduled to take place on March 28th at the Mahopac Golf Club. The actual jump will take place from 4:45-4:46, so don’t be late, because I don’t plan on being in the frigid waters for more than just one minute.

I have been spending my time taking cold showers, eating snow (the non yellow version) all as part of my training regimen. For those of you who can’t join me in person, you can learn more about the jump at www.westchester.cff.org/freezin.

Cystic Fibrosis affects some 30,000 children in America today. It is an awful disease that needs to be eradicated.

Labels: client, employees, fundraising

Friday, January 9, 2009

First ever charity iPhone application

The Nonprofit Times carried a short piece in their print edition on one charity that just launched an iPhone app; Songs of Love Foundation. Wow… Fundraising has come a long way in a very short time and has penetrated most sources….billboards, direct mail, telemarketing, branding, web and now phone applications. Wonder what will be next? Where will technology be in a few years that will create new source to reach donors? I’m intrigued. Are you?

Labels: fundraising, technology

Friday, October 10, 2008

Search for a cause

The September issue of Home Magazine had a little article on a website called goodsearch.com. It’s a Yahoo-based search engine that donates about a penny to the charity of your choice every time you perform a web search. Over 60,000 national and local nonprofit charities and schools are listed on the site, and you can even choose a different charity every time you search. Several of our clients are registered on the site: Christian Appalachian Project, Arbor Day Foundation, American Institute for Cancer Research, and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation all participate.

Just think of how many times you web search each day – the pennies can add up quick for these organizations.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Motorcyclists ride for cancer research

As I got up to run to the mall Sunday, Sept 21st, I noticed a lot of motorcyclists in the parking lot of the Danbury Fair Mall and wondered what was going on. Now reading about it Monday morning, I realized it was for the "Sixth Annual Kick It Motorcycle Ride for Cancer Research" of the American Cancer Society's Connecticut Chapter.

The ride was comprised of about 1,000 riders heading toward Route 7 for the first leg of a 60 mile journey. During the six years they have raised about $100,000. According to the article, nearly every rider/passenger/volunteer was dedicating this to someone whom they knew with cancer. As an avid motorcycle rider myself, riding is great but riding for a cause is even greater.

Labels: fundraising

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Fundraising and Social Media

Our good friend Darryl from Brandflakes posted this on his blog. It seemed so relevant to what we do, we felt it important to link the whole article to you, our readers. There's a lot of real meat here for those fundraisers who either are already involved with social media, or struggling to integrate it into their marketing channels.

It's a long article but a really quick read and I think worth a look.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, social media

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Fasting and fundraising

I didn't eat much of a lunch yesterday so come 6PM I was so hungry that my stomach started to hurt, which got me thinking... about how much it sucked to be that hungry, how spoiled I am to be so accustomed to a full belly that I couldn't stop thinking about food after just 9 hours without it... how terrible it is that malnourished children across the world feel like I did at that moment every day of their lives, and how I've never related and sympathized for them more.

I then started to think about the Feed the Children, and other similar nonprofit commercials and how much more responsive viewers would be if they were hungry while they aired. Maybe these organizations could start a campaign encouraging Catholic churches to fund raise among their members during Lent as they are fasting. Or air a telethon the first day of Lent and follow up with a mailing.

Maybe they could enlist grocery stores to set up donation centers with visuals showing what your cart looks like chock full of groceries for your family compared to the small bowl of rice a impoverished child will have to last a couple of days. During the fundraiser, grocery stores could do a mailing of a coupon to redeem, but instead of say - saving $1.00 on your next purchase, you can choose to feed a child with a $1.00 donation. Maybe as an incentive the donors could have the opportunity of using their coupon as an entry into a sweepstakes.

Just a thought.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Stand Up To Cancer

Yes it was an unprecedented event last week when three of the major TV outlets simultaneously televised a fund raiser for cancer research. But what affect does it have on other cancer research fundraisers? Money usually sent to personal favorite charities must feel the pinch. When you've got Hollywood's elite, hawking the public to call celebs and donate what can you do?

OK the object is noble...cure cancer. But how are independent fundraisers able to compete with this type of event?

I worry about this.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

The social networking bug

In the ever changing/evolving landscape of nonprofit direct marketing, the latest “hot” topic is how organizations can leverage social media sites to connect with potential donors/ activists, in the hopes that their mission will resonate with them and thus get them involved.

According to a recent Michael Pucian article in The Philanthropy Journal, “unlike e-commerce, which has been the huge Internet focus over the past 10 years, social networking is about connecting and getting involved, and not about buying and selling. Thanks to social media this is the perfect time for nonprofits to step up and ensure their mission is one that people are talking about.”

It may be the perfect time for nonprofits to step up, but the concept is a difficult pill to swallow for most traditional nonprofit organizations. It has always previously been about connecting with a person, telling them a story, that in turn, compels the person to make a donation. When did it not become about “selling”?

Ugghhh, and you thought direct mail acquisition mailings were a difficult sell to your board. Now you want to sell them the idea that you need one full time person on your staff who will be responsible for writing blogs, etc. that may or may not bring in supporters to your cause.

I happen to agree with Mr. Pucian’s take on the subject, but make sure you have all your ducks in a row before getting in front of the board. Have a concrete plan in place.

Mr. Pucian goes on to speak about the time investment that organizations must make in order to make this a viable operation. In his eyes the strategic commitment that it takes will cost you one full time person. As Mr. Pucian states find a person with the following qualities to spearhead this endeavor:

- Knows and enjoys social media
- Is tech savvy (but doesn't have to be a geek)
- Knows your organization and is committed to its mission
- Has a personable, outgoing writing style

One of my concerns with all of the hype surrounding social media is the audience you are reaching out to, and their long term involvement and commitment to the organizations. These folks are likely younger and/ or without families and perhaps not ready to become donors just yet.

I look at my personal use of Facebook and MySpace. Although I have an account on each site, I do not currently, nor, do I think will ever have the time available to spend utilizing all of their capabilities. Think about how you are going to keep people engaged and involved long enough so they can become donors and supporters! Have a plan!!

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, social media

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Macy's Shop for a Cause

This is an interesting campaign. Macy's helped raise over $9,500,000 last year for charities all over the US. Your organization gets special coupons which they sell for $5.00 and the recipient redeems it on 9/20/08 for merchandise at Macy's which has been reduced in price for that day only. There are other valuable freebies for the shopper too. Your 501(c) 3 keeps the proceeds of the $5.00 and Macy's gets the sale.

If you're interested follow the link above.

Labels: fundraising

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Help cool the earth

National Wildlife Federation has created a pretty neat online campaign called The Good Neighbor Pledge which coincides with Earth Day and National Wildlife Week. A visitor to the site responds to a series of energy saving tips and for each of the tips they can check off they get points for. With 20 or more points and a donation of $15.00 you are a member of the Good Neighbor Program. You then receive a Good Neighbor Kit with more information on how to cool the earth and as a premium you get a nifty water bottle.

Very cool way to generate more awareness and some dollars for the cause.

Labels: environment, fundraising, green, nonprofit

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Freezin’ for a Reason

If it seems that Mike Kertelits and RMI go to extreme measures to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - you're spot on. Not only are they a top client of ours but, as noted in an earlier blog entry, Mike had been participating in a polar plunge into the frigid Lake Mahopac to raise funds for research to fight CF.

A couple Saturdays ago, Mike and 122 other jumpers took the dip of a lifetime in the lake waters that were beyond cold. And for their efforts, they were able to raise over $90,000 for the cause. Impressive.

The “swim” was followed by a fundraising dinner at the Mahopac Country Club. Some 280 people attended the dinner and were entertained by video of the earlier plunge and an informational video provided by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. (And as you can see from the video, there was a great deal of talk about Mike's interesting choice in wardrobe.)

The local fundraising efforts were spearheaded by the Stack family of Mahopac. Their daughter Jacqueline is 7, and has CF. "She and her family are all the inspiration a person needs to withstand a little cold water in hopes to finding a cure for this terrible disease," said Mike.

Other pictures can be viewed on our Flickr site and further info about the event can be found on freezinforcysticfibrosis.com.

Labels: employees, fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Mobile marketing for nonprofits

The DMA Nonprofit Federation recently announced in an email message that three nonprofits will test a pilot plan with Mobile Cause to test the viability of mobile fundraising. The three participants in the first phase of the pilot plan are Food for the Hungry, National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. There will be a teleconference on April 23rd for all members of the Federation to learn more about the plan.

Labels: DMA Nonprofit Federation, fundraising, mobile marketing, nonprofit

Monday, March 31, 2008

NWF pushes green marketing

A nice round number is $40 million. That's the amount National Wildlife Federation has committed to "green marketing".

Jamie Matyas, NWF COO and EVP of Marketing, announced in a DM News article yesterday that the organization has hired the services of two "green marketing" agencies who are partnering to develop a variety of campaigns, all directed towards their core constituents. To name a few, advertising initiatives will revolve around Ranger Rick and Your Big Backyard kids' magazines, the Great American Backyard Campout, and a college campus program that teaches alumni and faculty how to reduce their carbon footprint.

This goes to show just how dedicated NWF is to our environment. A tactical effort not only to encourage our generation's "green" decisions, but our children's - instilling values that they will carry on with them into adulthood.

Labels: fundraising, green, nonprofit

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Good Insight From Les Gordon

Today's online issue of The Non Profit Times lead off with an interesting article from Les Gordon. He outlines what, in his opinion, are the 7 misunderstandings that non profit mailers must not over look. Unfortunately, he never mentions that for direct mail acquisition a common misconception is thinking that lists are not the most important part of the mailing.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

First time we've ever urged an employee to jump

On April 5th, Mike Kertelits will be joining a crew of others in jumping into Lake Mahopac for "Freezin for a Reason"; a yearly fundraiser to benefit our client, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. So far Mike has raised $200 for the cause, $150 of which came from RMI employee contributions. Last year there were nearly 80 jumpers who helped raise $78,000 towards research in finding a cure.

For those of you who want to participate, but may not be so eager to submerge yourself into 35 degree water, Mike is taking sponsorship donations up until the day of the event. "Land Lovers" are also welcome to attend at a $50 fee to enjoy food, music and an open bar.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Our volunteers return

Rich and Debbie returned from WorkFest today satisfied and proud, yet sore and tired to say the least. Debbie said, and I quote, "I think next time we'll have to send some of our younger employees down." I'd say the college kids won, but Debbie made it very clear that they made a great match for the day - had it been a week like the rest of them, that might have been a different story. (I won't mess with a woman that handy with a shovel.)

Debbie spent her day building a deck, while Rich was apparently the day's hero in aiding with the completion of a home's roof before a storm rolled through. Larry, a construction crew volunteer, said that if it wasn't for Rich lifting those heavy wooden frames (shown above) onto the roof all day, they never would have finished in time.

Way to go Debbie and Rich; you've made us proud! Videos of WorkFest, along with other efforts put forth by the Christian Appalachian Project can be viewed here.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, volunteering

Friday, March 14, 2008

Rich & Debbie off to Operation New Hope

They may look well and strong now, but Rich (manager) and Debbie (broker) who team together for our client Christian Appalachian Project are about to get their butts kicked by a bunch of college kids.

For the past 10 years, CAP has organized Operation New Hope (aka WorkFest), an annual project taking place in March where thousands of volunteers pitch in to make major repairs to desperate homes in Appalachia. Aside from helpers like us, the main team is made up of good-hearted college kids who have forfeited a week of vacation fun to aid those less privileged. Now, Rich and Debbie are on a quest to keep up with them...

They fly out on Sunday. Come Tuesday, the work will begin. Footage and vital stats posted Wednesday. Stay tuned.

Good luck Rich & Debbie!

Labels: employees, fundraising, nonprofit, volunteering

Thursday, February 7, 2008

AHA and Jiffy Lube

The American Heart Association and Jiffy Lube have partnered for a new national awareness campaign. According to an article from PROMO magazine, half of Jiffy Lube customers are women which make the "red dress" idea appealing to both groups. Customers who make a $3.00 donation to AHA receive a coupon book for $100 worth of products from Jiffy Lube. One Jiffy Lube station in Des Moines IA is so behind the idea they even donned red dresses.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, partnership

Monday, February 4, 2008

Web friends can be real friends

Darryl from Brandflakes wrote a really compelling post a few weeks ago about blogs, other social networks, and the new class of friendship they have unearthed. Admittedly, some of us here used to be sceptical of platforms like Twitter and Facebook that seemed to de-personalize relationships. Darryl pointed out that although you may never come face to face with these people, they've become part of your daily life and are, in a way, friends.

He told a story about a woman battling breast cancer, Susan, whose blog about her struggle was read by hundreds of people she never met. On the day of her surgery her web friends blogged about her and bore pictures of frozen peas in their avatars for support. (You can read the about the symbolism here.) The message became viral and more and more people started carrying peas.

This story got me thinking about how nonprofits could thrive from social networks, so I did some investigating. Apparently people are using applications that allow you to post badges or widgets on your blog, or Facebook pages, that can direct your friends/viewers to an area where they can donate to the cause you’re representing. Why not also use graphics in your avatar and link directly to the cause?

So maybe a key here to online/viral fundraising is simply to make yourself visible. Encourage the people of your success stories, or those that draw on your heartstrings, to share experiences online, start a blog, or simply start sporting a symbolic avatar. We'll be looking into ideas like these further and how they can grow online fundraising.

If you have a success story of using one of these applications, or how social networks have impacted your life and/or career -- leave a comment! We'd love to hear.

Labels: fundraising, social media

Monday, January 28, 2008

Max L. Hart award recipient, Kelly Browning

In an earlier blog entry, Rich Leary from RMI very eloquently outlined the accomplishments of Kelly Browning of the American Institute for Cancer Research, and the reasons why he is such a deserving recipient of the Max L. Hart Achievement Award.

As not only a long time client of RMI's, but as a friend, I know first hand how important the nonprofit community is to Kelly. If you know nothing more about him know this; if you are a nonprofit mailer and are in need of advise he will always be available to give you wise council. He is not sparing of his time. In his view, the nonprofit sector is only helped by the strengthening of its entire parts. To me it's this quality that makes him such a valuable member of not only the nonprofit market place but for the entire Direct Marketing industry as a whole.

Congratulations not only to Kelly and AICR but to the DMA Nonprofit Federation for such a good choice.

Labels: award, DMA Nonprofit, fundraising, nonprofit

Second Nonprofit Mailer Symposium a hit

On Jaunuary 23, 2008 RMI hosted it's second annual Nonprofit Mailer Symposium in Washington DC. Held at the Occidental Restaurant, it was a precursor to the DMA Nonprofit Federation's Washington event. This mailers-only round table is a venue for nonprofit mailers to be able to interact with peers to exchange ideas and report on developments which effect every nonprofit mailer today. "It's like a one on one lunch meeting where you can ask questions and get really straight answers, except that there are about 30 others at the table too."

Discussed were strategies for online and off line marketing tips and best and worst case studies for packages and both house file and acquisition.

For more information on next year's event just contact us here at RMI.

(The lovely lady smiling next to me in the photo above is Cecilia Saad of the Center for Science in the Public Interest.)

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, Nonprofit Mailer Symposium

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Nonprofits look into “mobile” marketing

DM News online recently posted an article speaking about how member organizations of the DMA Nonprofit Federation were looking into the use of “mobile” marketing as a tool to raise funds for their causes. A test pilot program that will involve a dozen or more nonprofits will be put together next month.

The prevailing thought is that this vehicle may be a way to reach the always sought after and evasive “younger” donors. The hope is that they get involved at a young age and give to the organization for years to come. Apparently there has been some success in Europe with text messaging and raising funds.

It will be curious to see how the test goes. Will the success in Europe translate to the States? Will the recipients of such text messages become annoyed and just delete them without reading (i.e. “junk” messages)? Will the messages get lost amongst the hundreds of other text messages that the youth of America are sending one another on a monthly basis? Will we be seeing the DNT (Do Not Text) legislation start to flow out of our capitals? Will this tool work as well for nonprofits as it would for other types of direct marketers?

We shall find out. One thing is for sure; the Test, Test, Test motto is not just for direct mail anymore.

Labels: fundraising, mobile marketing, nonprofit

Not to brag, but we rock

Remember the Denim Day fundraiser we blogged about last week? Our staff's contributions, doubled by an RMI match, allowed us to raise $500 for CLAS - surpassing our fundraising goal by $200! Not too shabby.

Labels: fundraising

Thursday, January 10, 2008

What do Bear Naked cereal and Arbor Day have in common?

In 2007 the cereal company Bear Naked, brain child of two Connecticut entrepreneurs, partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation and planted 50,000 trees in fire damaged forests.

I'm seeing more and more of this type of partnering recently.

Labels: fundraising, green

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Easter Seals tackles internet challenge

Easter Seals, among other nonprofit organizations, is participating in America’s Giving Challenge; an online challenge for charities to see how many unique donors they can attract using new and inventive online tools. The challenge, co-sponsored by Parade Magazine and The Case Foundation, will award $50,000 to the top eight charities with the most unique donors. The idea is for the charities' supporters to attach a charity badge (or fundraising widget) to their e-mail, blog, website or MySpace page. The challenge does not focus on how much money is raised but by how many unique donors they can attract from December 13th, 2007 until January 31st, 2008. What a great way for charitable organizations to utilize the internet for fundraising.

Check out Easter Seals' fundraising page to see how you can help, or simply make a donation here.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, viral marketing

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Wear denim and contribute to CLAS

On Friday, January 11th the Congress of Lung Association Staff (CLAS) is holding their nationwide fundraiser, "Denim Day". CLAS represents the staff voice for the American Lung Association and the American Thoracic Society Board of Directors and committees. Donate $5 and wear denim to work. Check out our fundraising page for details on how to join in.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Friday, November 30, 2007

More trouble for the American Red Cross

Just six months after being installed as the new CEO of The American Red Cross, Mark W. Everson has resigned under a veil of scandal. Just what the ARC needed. As one of the most recognizable non profits in the world this might cast a long shadow. The beleaguered ARC has had 8 CEO's in the past 12 years. When disaster strikes any where in the world, the ARC has always been there to give aid. Let's hope they can bounce back from this episode and reclaim their positive image.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

News from National Arbor Day Foundation

With an eye towards the future the National Arbor Day Foundation is now Arbor Day Foundation. The Foundation's mission of inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees continues to grow, now broadening to global outreach for global causes. Visit their web site for more information.

Labels: fundraising, green, international, nonprofit

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Make-A-Wish launches viral game

Fundraising online has been a hot topic for nonprofits these days. Make-A-Wish recently kicked off Lamb Chop Drop, an entertaining and absolutely adorable game. An interactive program like this can easily blow your budget, but Make-A-Wish has it covered with a "Corporate Sponsors" page showcasing all of its donors and leaving room for nine more.

Darryl from Brandflakes notes that the "Donate your final score" option at the end is a very nice touch. And if nothing else, the game has at least generated awareness.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, viral marketing

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Fundraising thru personal checks

I'm down to my last book of personal checks. It's at this point that I usually go on a rant about the lack of well designed checks available and turn to our local bank to order the same old batch. This insert however sold me immediately. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has a new personal check package. Not only is it beautifully designed but a portion of the cost goes directly to the organization, and you have the opportunity to continually promote the cause. I love it.

I surfed the Internet to see if any other charities are doing the same thing and was surprised not to find any at all. And I have to believe that there are plenty of men out there who would love to support a good cause but may not be so quick to purchase a collection of pink checks... Nonprofits, here's your chance.

Labels: fundraising

Friday, November 9, 2007

AICR/WCRF launch expert report

Last week The American Institute For Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund released it's second expert report called "Food, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and the Prevention of Cancer: a Global Perspective".

This 517 page report took 5 years to prepare and involved 9 research teams from universities around the world. The panel of 21 internationally renowned scientists drew 10 recommendations after assessing over 7,000 published studies relating to 17 cancers sites, the causes of obesity, cancer survivors and health related recommendations for other diseases. All the recommendations were geared towards ways to reduce the risk of cancer by diet and physical activity along with body composition.

Labels: fundraising

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Non-profits in the virtual world

If you attended the 2007 Fast Forward Day you would have heard all about "Second Life" and the virtual world. Half of the audience was interested and the other half thought it worthless. I was and continue to be intrigued by the concept. For years non profits have struggled with the task of gaining a foot hold with the younger audience. I'm not talking about the 50-60 group I mean the 20-40's. I believe this is the way. In the October 29th issue of DM News Chantal Tode writes about how The Human Society of the United States launched their virtual store front, There.com. This is just one more of a growing number of non profits who are testing the waters in the virtual world. The American Cancer Society and World Wildlife Fund have already made headway in this arena.

Create awareness early and develop donors later. If you want to tap into your future donor base this is how to do it.

Labels: fundraising, virtual reality

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

More from YouTube

It seems that more and more non profits are finding the value of viral marketing. VFW has launched a DRTV campaign now available on YouTube. National Wildlife Federation has launched a few video spots as well. Non profits have long been looking for a way to tap into the younger market. This appears to be the best way yet. If not for actual donations, at least to build awareness of the organization's mission. Tremendous value there. Building for the future.

Labels: DRTV, fundraising, nonprofit, viral marketing, YouTube

Thursday, October 4, 2007

YouTube for non-profits

You gotta love YouTube. They just announced a program where non-profits can set up their own channels and produce their own programs for fundraising. If your organization is a 501 (c) (3) it appears to be free. All you need is a wonderful agency to produce your Internet videos for you - which RMI has by the way. Just give us a call.

Labels: fundraising, nonprofit, video, viral marketing

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

A wealth of great ideas

The Hudson Valley DMA held it's Meet the Master program today. It's special guest was Kelly Browning, Executive Vice President and COO of The American Institute for Cancer Research. He spoke on many various topics of great interest. Initiatives the DMA is involved with as they pertain to advancing benefits for members and legislation. How the Internet can impact non profits. How to make sure your offer slices through mailbox "clutter". An hour's worth of ideas seemed like five minutes.

I always like to leave these sessions feeling like I took at least one thing away that I can either use or share with others. This was just one of the many that were noted: If the Hudson Valley DMA, or any other local or regional chapter, organized a special meeting and invited their Congressperson or Senators to the event this would be the best forum to, one on one, give legislators a better understanding of our industry and how many constituents we represent in their own home state. There are enough local DMA members in the HVDMA where sponsorships would be a viable avenue to look at for this type of an event. I thought it was worth a second thought.

Labels: fundraising, HVDMA, legislation, nonprofit