How To Ask For Donations From Local Businesses?
how would i go about asking for donations for my senior project from local businesses? i dont know if i should just walk up there and ask in person or send a letter or call. im afraid if i dont go in person they will just ignore my letter or call.
its for school and we are required to get the items we need donated. i need PVC pipe, flower baskets, plastic jugs, fire hoses from the fire department, etc. so any advice on how to be successful at this?
I am a teacher and have had to go out and ask for donations, too. It is best to go in person with a letter (on school letterhead) that tells exactly what you are raising money for, when the event will occur, and who the person in charge/contact person is (usually the adult). If you are unable to speak to the person in charge directly, the letter will explain exactly what you are doing. Make certain that you follow up by telephone or in person in 3 to 5 days. Also, if a company does make a donation, please write them a thank you note just to let them know that you appreciate what they have done.
The request for donations should be put in writing on school letterhead paper. Included should be who will benefit from the donation and what your group is hoping to achieve. The Principal or the Teacher Adviser should sign the letter. Now you can walk into businesses and ask to see the manager. Have plenty of copies of the letter, since most managers will have to fax the letter to headquarters for permission.