Donation is defined by Merriam-Webster as, "the making of a gift especially to a charity or public institution." Many organizations, whether they be religious, social injustices, medical research, or many more, are fully or partially funded by donations. Oftentimes, businesses and individuals are asked by a particular company that champions a cause to donate to their cause. An example of this
. would be companies like the American Red Cross, or the American Cancer Society, who survive and flourish mostly on donations. Donations are crucial for causes that may not get much attention from government or others.Giving is usually pretty simple. When an "ask" for a donation is placed, there are usually many options for donating. Oftentimes, the online option is the easiest. This ensures that the donation goes directly to the company. The downside of this option is the relative impersonal feel of the donation. A better suggestion may be to mail in the donation to the company or individual that is asking for the donation. The writing and preparing of the letter to be sent with a donation is a crucial part to the transaction.When preparing a letter to accompany a donation a business letter format should be used. It is best to keep the letter professional and informative. Also, be sure to include the amount of the donation somewhere in the letter, the charity that is being donated to, and whom the donation is from. In addition, be sure to include basic contact information in case there is ever a problem, or so that they can contact the giver for a thank-you letter or call. It is important to keep the letter fairly simple, and concise. Finally, ensure that the address and contact information is correct so that the donation will end up in the right hands and to the right charity.Remember that the letter accompanying a contribution provides the donor an opportunity to explain the motivation for the gift-giving, how the donor wants the gift used and perhaps the donor's personal story or organizational history that led to the gift. This is all important information to the recipient. More reference links: http://www.inspiredphilanthropy.com/pdf/AppendixE.pdf http://www.ehow.com/how_8559336_write-letter-accompany-contribution.html
