Challenge
With our Plum Island Campaign – a Save the Sound (STS) effort to protect and preserve a small biodiverse island in the Long Island Sound – we wanted to find a memorable and lasting way to remind donors what they were fighting for.
Solution
A passionate four-page letter featuring color photos of the island’s endangered wildlife led the package. But the out of the ordinary, and mission-focused premium was a beautiful 11 x 17 fold-out poster featuring an original watercolor painting created by a local artist and friend of the Sound, and customized for this appeal. One side the poster shows donors a detailed vision and plan for saving and restoring Plum Island. On the reverse is a beautiful, whimsical rendering of a seal suitable for framing and display. The crown of the seal’s head emerges from blue waters and represents the island and what stands to be lost if supporters fail to step up to help save this irreplaceable treasure. The letter encourages donors to show the Plum Island poster for friends and family to spread the word about STS’s important work.
Results
This appeal was one of the best performers of the year. The response rate of over 9% and an average gift of almost $75 indicates donors were enthusiastic about saving Plum Island and helping Save the Sound Continue their good work. The stellar results earned the package a DMAW Silver MAXI.
