Proof Positive:
Work that works
How’s the thinking? What’s the creative like? Does it get the job done?
Here are just a few of our success stories. And how we made them happen. If you’ve got a specific issue you don’t see represented, contact us. With over four decades of fundraising leadership, we’ve created winning approaches for all kinds of challenges. Maybe one a lot like yours.
Of course, that’s just the jumping-off point. The real answers we’ll find together.
proof positive #6: Direct Mail Acquisition
A cost-effective, 4-color package beats the control by 25%
Opportunity
For years, Operation Smile had been using the same 2-color acquisition control package with good results—but not good enough, in our view. Our challenge was to develop a new creative approach that would beat the old control and fit the organization’s very tight budget.
Approach
A simple, inexpensive, yet compelling 6 x 9 four-color package presented the tearful face of a child in pain on the outside, and unfolded the stunning after-surgery story of that same child inside. The prospective donor was able to read about the amazing genesis of Operation Smile, and the subsequent 25-year impact they’ve had on children born with facial deformities. This way donors could understand how their gift would impact the life of a child.
Results
We got even more than we hoped for, as this package was a tremendous success that:
• Increased the core list audience by 25%
• Inspired one donor to send a check for $10,000 as a first-time gift
• Received great feedback from Operation Smile’s in-country medical volunteers and international mission teams