Posted by Mitchell on November 27, 2001, at 3:23:44
In reply to Re: fund drive, posted by Dr. Bob on November 25, 2001, at 17:57:12
The new support text is somewhat better. I sense some reluctance to *tell* people directly to support the site. The text in the box at the top of the page says "You can help Psycho-Babble" whereas a more direct appeal would say "Help Psycho-Babble." It is important for any fundraising effort to reflect the value of the project for which funds are sought, so a direct appeal to "help" might not fit. It seems the philosophy here is to put the onus of control in the group and in individual members, so you might not want to tell them what to do, especially to give you money.
But another tack could get more directly to the heart of people's interest in supporting the site and could help to develop that interest. You could build on what is now the first line to more effectively develop people's interest.
Now it says: "If you like my work -- and would like to support it -- then you've followed the right link!"
A contingency statement like that is not so pushy than a direct ask. But the best contingency might be something other than whether a person likes your work. My advice would be that whether or not people like *your* work might not be relevant. Far more people are likely to support the site because they like the mission of the site than because they like your work.
I don't want to suggest *exactly* what it could say, but I do want to offer a suggestion. Maybe something along these lines:
"If you think on-line forums for mental health support are important you've come to the right place. I think they are important. That is why I contribute my time to make this site possible. This is a 100% volunteer effort...(etc.)"
...then... "No one is under any obligation to offer any support. This site is and always has been free (and free of advertisements). But if think a supportive and educational on-line forum such as this is an important resource, you might want to make a donation. If you want to contribute financially, that's great! etc."
This way, you're not limiting support to people who like your work, you are explaining why you do the work, why you think it is important, and acknowledging that others might want to help and facilitating their involvement.
poster:Mitchell
thread:2305
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20010718/msgs/2365.html