One Story Into Many: Expanding the Client Narrative
We all know the power of a good story in fundraising. But sometimes, the best stories don’t fit neatly into a single email or one-page letter. In fact, they may be even more effective when told over time—layered, revisited, and allowed to unfold. Expanding a story into a series helps donors connect not just with […]
Why Timely, Creative Newsletters Still Matter
In the rush of fundraising, newsletters can sometimes feel like an afterthought—an obligation to check off the list rather than a meaningful part of your donor strategy. But when they’re approached with purpose and prepared in a timely, creative way, newsletters can be one of the most effective tools in your communication toolbox. Timing matters. […]
The Case for Shorter Lead Times in Fundraising
Timing plays a crucial role in effective fundraising—but not just regarding when appeals are mailed. The timeline for producing those appeals can be just as important. With many agencies, the lead time to develop a fundraising campaign is long and inflexible. Content often needs to be finalized months in advance, which can limit the ability […]
Welcome to Good News Ministries!
We’re thrilled to welcome our newest partner, Good News Ministries, to the Delia MartÃn family! Good News Ministries is doing life-changing work in the heart of Indianapolis—reaching people experiencing homelessness with practical help, heartfelt compassion, and the hope of Jesus Christ. Their mission says it best: “Our vision is to bring hope to the underprivileged […]
Why Testing Isn’t Optional Anymore
Fundraising isn’t a guessing game—it’s a science. And the best fundraising programs don’t assume. They test. Whether it’s an email subject line, a donation form layout, a photo in a direct mail piece, or a Facebook ad headline, testing tells you what actually works—not just what feels right. But here’s the catch: too many organizations […]
Standing Out in a Saturated Market: Rethinking Donor Engagement
Every nonprofit is chasing attention—but attention is only the starting point. In a landscape flooded with appeals, hashtags, giving days, and emotional stories, the real challenge isn’t just getting noticed; it’s getting remembered—and trusted. That’s why donor engagement is more than a buzzword. It’s the connective tissue that ties interest to investment. In today’s saturated […]
Fundraising Reimagined
The power of purpose-driven fundraising Fundraising Reimagined Beyond Meals: Attracting Donors Who See the Bigger Picture For decades, the “meal ask” has been the cornerstone of rescue mission fundraising. It’s familiar. It’s effective. And for cultivation campaigns, it still resonates—especially with donors whose giving journey began with the promise of providing a warm meal. But […]
What we love about Lexington Rescue Mission
This week marks Citygate Network’s annual convention in Lexington, Kentucky. There’s a lot to appreciate about Lexington. It’s a beautiful city with lovely people, and the surrounding countryside is gorgeous. But we at Delia MartÃn are especially fond of Lexington Rescue Mission. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving Lexington Rescue Mission since it began in 2001. […]
So, about the meal offer…
In my last email – you know, the one with the provocative title – I discussed whether it was time to move beyond the meal offer. You’ll remember that I reviewed the history of the meal offer and its successful run at raising money in the rescue mission world.I also discussed the possibility that this […]
Is it time to move beyond the meal offer?
This week marks Citygate Network’s annual convention in Lexington, Kentucky. There’s a lot to appreciate about Lexington. It’s a beautiful city with lovely people, and the surrounding countryside is gorgeous. But we at Delia MartÃn are especially fond of Lexington Rescue Mission. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving Lexington Rescue Mission since it began in 2001. […]