Grant Writing

Grant writing is more than filling in the blanks. It requires extensive research; a full knowledge of a nonprofit organization’s mission and programs; and most of all, the ability to match those programs with the correct funding source. “Chasing the money” results in lost hours writing grants that have little or no chance of success.  I respect your time and financial investment in the process and will produce a document with the maximum opportunity for a positive outcome. My work includes:

  • Interviews with administration, staff and clients to understand your organization’s programs and unique story
  • Research of current literature
  • Creation of a draft document
  • Editing and incorporating input from administration and staff
  • Creation of a final grant document

Case Statements

Adding a new wing to your hospital? Wondering if your donors are interested in supporting the purchase of millions of dollars of new technology? A case statement helps you find the answers. Part editorial, part research paper, a case statement helps you craft the message and determine the level of interest in major projects. My work includes:

  • Interviews with key stakeholders
  • Extensive research of an organization’s existing marketing materials as well as technical documentation research
  • Creation of a draft document
  • Editing and incorporating input from administration, staff and potential donors
  • Creation of a final case statement

Direct Mail

The best appeals letters do more than make The Ask; they tell a compelling story that draws in the reader and helps transform occasional supporters into consistent donors. Each nonprofit has its own amazing story to tell, and staff and clients that help make it a unique organization. I bring those stories to life on the page, drawing on my extensive experience in both development and journalism. My work includes:

  • Interviews with administration, staff, volunteers and clients with stories to share
  • Creation of a draft letter
  • Editing and  incorporating input from administration and staff
  • Creation of the final direct mail piece

Newsletters

Every organization can share its mission and positive stories through its newsletter. These days, that doesn’t always mean a printed version; electronic newsletters or a combination of printed and electronic editions may best serve your needs. My work includes:

  • Creation of a timeline to make sure that deadlines are met and the newsletter reaches donors and supporters in a timely manner
  • Interviews for story creation and writing newsletter copy
  • Coordination with in-house graphic designers, photographers, and printers and/or hiring freelance professionals
  • Editing and incorporating input from administration and staff to create the final product

Press Releases and Media Consultation

Press releases without a true story “hook” end up in the recycling bin. I will craft a piece that will tell your story – and catch an editor’s eye. Just as important as knowing what to write is knowing what media outlet is most interested in what you have to say. My work includes:

  • Creation of a draft press release
  • Editing and incorporating input from administration and staff
  • Creation of the final press release
  • Creation of a media plan
  • Creation of a media contact list

CLASSES I’M TEACHING

UCSD Extension,

starts Feb. 10, 2010

Register

HOW TO REACH ME

858.484.0529 office

619.316.3138 cell

Email Mary Curran-Downey

Member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals

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