From Blank Page to Bold Ask: A Partnership Approach to Appeal Writing
About the Event
Writing a fundraising appeal can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance honoring your mission, respecting the people you serve, and clearly inviting donors to give. This interactive workshop will help you step back from the blank page and clarify what truly belongs at the center of your message: the community and the shared work that’s already in motion.
Together, we’ll walk through a practical framework to help you articulate the need, highlight the strengths and expertise within your organization, and invite donors into a meaningful partnership. Grounded in ethical storytelling and real-world examples, this session will leave you with greater confidence, clearer language, and a structure you can immediately use in your next appeal.
Learning Outcomes
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Clarify the core message and purpose of their appeal before drafting.
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Frame fundraising language around community impact and shared responsibility.
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Write a clear, specific invitation that confidently asks for support.
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Apply ethical storytelling principles that preserve dignity and agency.
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Repurpose their core appeal message across multiple communication channels.
Registration is required.
AFP Members: $20
Non-Members: $30
Scholarships are available during registration.
Tuesday, July 21
12:00-2:00 pm
Goodman Community Center, Evjue Room, Ironworks Building: 149 Waubesa St.
Madison, WI 53704
Lunch will be served
Presentation begins at 12:30 pm
Rikki Harry, CFRE, MEd
Rikki Harry is a nonprofit strategist, ethical leadership advocate, and doctoral candidate committed to transforming small organizations. As founder & CEO of LEAP Nonprofit Consulting, she helps clients raise millions through authentic, relationship-based fundraising – not transactional tactics. Rikki draws on decades of experience across diverse nonprofit settings to help leaders build values-aligned, equity-driven cultures. Her work empowers leaders with practical strategies, honest conversations, and a bold vision for creating lasting impact through transparency, abundance, and authentic leadership.
Event Details
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be received in writing via email at least two weeks before the start of an event to be eligible for a refund. No refunds will be made for requests received after that time, by other means, or for those who choose not to attend. You may always send an alternate to an event without additional charge. Online processing fees will be incurred for refunds and deducted from the refunded amount.
If AFP-GM cancels an event, registrants will receive a full refund of the registration fee. All event registrants will be notified immediately by email of cancellation.
Refunds will be issued in the same form payment was made. Please allow two weeks for processing.
To request a cancellation, send an alternate, or make other changes to your registration, please contact the Chapter Director at: admin@afpmadison.org.
