The Critical Third-How much will they give?

According to a comprehensive research  studyconducted in January, one-third of donors were 'undecided' about their intentions for the remainder of this year.  My mini poll suggests that 38% of our regional non profits were either in 'crisis' or might face a crisis depending on how much money they were able to raise over the next 8 months. So what to do...the single most important message is be proactive with donors. 

1. Don't remain motionless until "The Mailing" goes out in the 4th Quarter and then anxiously await the return envelopes. Have you sent out a 'state of the union' communication outlining your response to the economic climate?  If not, why not?
   
2. Personalize communication--I'm amazed how many Berkshire County NPO's still think it works to send out a "Dear Mr. Deely [or Dooley]" letter with a generic appeal and return envelope. Too often these appeals are knee jerk staff responses to a request/demand from an ED or board member to "Do Something!"
   
3. LYBUNTS [last year but not this]  Recontact them with the message 'We need you now more than ever!'