Is Direct Mail Dead? Fundraising Myths and Strategies You Need to Know

Is your ministry or nonprofit struggling financially? 

The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2024 reports that “giving to most nonprofit subsectors rose in 2024.” Giving USA key findings show an estimated $592.50 billion was given to U.S. charities in the year.

If you’re not experiencing growth, there could be several variables at work. Keep reading for tools and strategies you need to know to engage people with your mission…

Scroll down for videos to help you thrive in ministry with innovative fundraising strategies that work.

 

Don’t Just Take Your Donor’s Money – Educate Them

Phil Cooke emphasizes educating donors to bring them on board with your vision:

Too many religious and non-profit organizations pursue donors and expect it to be a one-way street. Sure, you send them an email blast, a letter, a social media post, or produce a radio or TV program, but really – what’s in it for them? It’s no wonder so many ministries and non-profits are struggling these days with fundraising.

 

Want to turn things around?

Start educating your donors.  

And I’m not just talking about teaching them how to give more. I’m talking about teaching about what the need is, how your organization is meeting that need, why it matters, and why you need their help. Make them more educated about the hunger, poverty, sex-trafficking, clean water, education, evangelism, homelessness, or whatever your cause is.

Because once they get educated, they get passionate, and when they get passionate, there’s no telling what they’re capable of doing. – Phil Cooke

 

Just starting out? Here’s how Cooke Media Group helped Ann White with Courage for Life Ministries start her nonprofit. If you’re called to ministry, Ann’s story will inspire you!  Watch: How to Start a Nonprofit or Ministry

 

Want more? Phil Cooke interviews fundraising experts below to help you create a thriving ministry. Watch below!

Is Direct Mail Dead? Best Digital Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits | Interview – Mark Dreistadt

Find out why direct mail is still the foundation of successful fundraising – and how digital tools are transforming donor engagement. Watch now.

 

 

 

The Power of Video for Nonprofit Fundraising | Paul Steven Forrest

Inspire generosity through storytelling. Here’s how to share your ministry’s vision effectively through video. Watch now.

 

 

 

Nonprofit Fundraising: How to Engage Partners in Your Mission

Here’s how to build life-long partners in your vision. Watch here.

 

 

If you’re not seeing donor growth, maybe it’s time to bring in expert help. The team at Cooke Media Group can work with you to develop a strategy that will help your ministry or nonprofit organization thrive. Contact us to explore the possibilities!

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Phil Cooke, PhD., has been called “one of the most innovative communicators of our generation.” As the CEO/founder of Cooke Media Group, media producer, writer, speaker, and consultant, his client list includes major film studios and TV networks as well as major Christian organizations like Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, and others. He’s also coached and consulted with many of the most influential churches and nonprofit organizations in the world, helping them use media to tell their story. Access his blogs on creative leadership here.