When asking for monetary donations, it’s important to answer the following questions:

• Why am I raising money for this cause?
• Why is it important to me?
• How will donations benefit my cause?

Also be sure to give some information on the event you’re participating in, and ask your supporters to help by donating and spreading the word.

Sample letter

Dear friends and family,

I’m lucky to have my health and a wonderful family and friends that support me. Especially in these tough financial times, I’m fortunate to have a roof over my head and plenty of food to eat.

But what if I didn’t’? Who could I turn to?

Many Boston-area people in this situation rely on the many services Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) provides. That’s why I chose to run the Boston Marathon in support of this wonderful charity.

Your support for BWH is important to me because the funds we raise go directly back into the Boston community, improving the quality of life for those less fortunate.

Specifically, your donations will fund:

• Programs for domestic violence victims
• Compassionate services for women with breast cancer
• Programs for young people interested in healthcare jobs
• Support for community health centers

This April as I toe the line of my ninth marathon, I’ll celebrate my health and love of running. Please help me and BWH reach our goals by making a donation to my fundraising page. This is a team effort–I can’t do this without you!

To make a donation, visit my page: http://www.firstgiving.com/yourpageaddress . Also, please pass this page on to anyone who might like to donate.

Love,
Your Name