The Internet and E-Mail
E-mail is a quick and inexpensive way to spread the word to your members. If you have e-mail addresses provided by previous contributors, then they, too, should receive an e-mail. Spam, or the mass distribution of e-mail advertising to an unsuspecting audience, is not permissible. It does not put your organization in a positive light. Use controlled e-mail lists of people you know are willing to hear from you.
If your organization has a website, post the information there. However, you must remember that posting material on a website does not help reach people unless the site itself is promoted. You will have to spread the word about the website for it to be an effective means of promoting activities and events. Make sure you include your website address on all of your literature.
Websites should make visitors want to come back for more information. Post stories about your programs and invite reader feedback. You also might include online polls and surveys. The more interaction, the more likely users will feel a connection to the site. In addition, you can better determine how many people are visiting your website and seeing your fundraising promotions.
Other ways to utilize the Internet are to send announcements to websites that support your mission, post messages on message boards, and mention your fundraiser in appropriate chat rooms. Often, community-based websites devote a calendar listing for nonprofits.
