Who is Your Trailblazer? – Cultivating the First Gift

Who is Your Trailblazer? – Cultivating the First Gift

SFX:     DOORBELL RING; TWO TONE “DING-DONG” SFX:     DEADBOLT, SQUEAKY FRONT DOOR Scout:     Good afternoon. My name is Mark Whitlock. I’m a Scout with Troop 70 here in Stone Mountain and I am raising money today for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. You know, Jerry’s Kids? Would you be willing to give something? Space Shuttle...

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Don’t Write Your Advertising Copy with a Shoehorn

Don’t Write Your Advertising Copy with a Shoehorn

Question: What word count should I use when writing a 60-second radio spot?   Answer: It’s complicated. Word count is the last place to begin when writing for ANY advertising platform, especially radio or your podcast. Allow me to write to radio producers. I’ll make application to other media at the end of my post. Remember, you are writing for the...

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Don’t Forget to Ask

Don’t Forget to Ask

The courtroom is crowded, but quiet. A hard-faced witness wearing all dark clothes and an even darker expression lounges in the witness box acting bullet-proof. A tailored suit prowls the scarred hardwood floors in front of the judge’s bench. His Honor sits erect clad in his black robe and authority. His eyes follow the attorney back and forth. Cello and French...

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Three Words that Will Refocus Your Fundraising

Three Words that Will Refocus Your Fundraising

Twelve men and women crowded around the executive board room table. The rest of us sat in chairs along the wall or stuck in corners. Important people had flown in for this summit. Both coasts and three other states were represented. Body heat, the coffee makers, and the passions surrounding the round, glass top table taxed the air conditioning system. Men...

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Stop Asking for Money!

Stop Asking for Money!

I hate asking for money. How about you? A similar sign When I have to ask for money, I feel a lot like the guy who sometimes stands at I-65 and Highway 96. His gray beard hangs down matted with dirt, food particles, and car exhaust. He wears a green fatigue jacket and holds a cardboard sign that says, “Help an enjured (sic) vet. God bless.” Other times, I feel...

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The Dirtiest Word in Fundraising

The Dirtiest Word in Fundraising

  There’s a fundraising word worse than a mosquito.   Every once in a while, the FCC levels a huge fine against a TV network or radio station for the use of vulgar language. I wish I could fine* broadcasters, pastors, and direct mail letter writers every time they use a particular dirty word. I heard it again the other day. A communicator asking...

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