I think even beyond stories, though, when engaging with donors and volunteers on social media you must get to know them and engage with them around their interests, not just be a megaphone. Find conversations that are already happening and chime in, in an authentic and non-salesy way.

If it sounds like a lot of work, it is. A social CRM tool can help make this process easier, but it does require the work of somebody who’s passionate about and invested in an organization’s mission and can articulate it in a conversational way.

As far as writing goes, even if someone else writes your copy, it has to sound like the person signing the letter. You have to work as a team always keeping your goals in mind – to raise money and develop relationships with supporters all along the journey.

I’ve been contemplating a blog posting on that very topic.

This is another fantastic post. In your usual style — charming and to the point — you walk nonprofits through what drives effective marketing.

Thanks for sharing these tips. I am going to forward it to my clients.

Now, I have to go. It’s lunchtime here in Chicago and all this talk of Paula Deen has me craving southern fried chicken.

Thanks.