What Words Should I Use for a Donation Box?

A donation box is used to collect money for a charitable organization. The donation box should be highly visible and placed in a location where no one can miss it. Having a knowledgeable person by the donation box to answer questions can also help solicit donations. Make sure the donation box is secure, so that it cannot be stolen easily without someone noticing.

The words "Donation Box" are the most important. The size of the letters should be large and noticeable. Use a marker, not a pen, to write the words. Use bright colors that contrast with the color of the donation box itself. Write in block letters that are legible. Keep it simple; do not use convoluted wording to get donations, such as "the box where your charitable gifts will be received."

Images on a donation box can be powerful. The image can be made even more so by adding a caption. For example, a photo of a starving child can evoke sympathy. Adding a caption such as, "Without your donation, she will not have a meal tomorrow" can tug at the heartstrings. Including a statistic will also help to highlight the cause. For example, "Over three billion people live on less than $2.50 a day."

At charity events, donors do not want to be rude and give too little but they also may not want to spend more on a donation than their peers. Giving a suggested donation amount helps takes the guesswork out of how much to give. The amount for suggested donations is dependent on the event and how much it is reasonable to charge. For example, a donation box at a charitable art show may suggest $5 or $10, whereas $100 or more would be appropriate for a dinner gala. This would only apply if the donation box is used in lieu of tickets purchased for the events.

Including a story of how the money will be used or an example of how past donations have helped may be useful. The donor needs to know why they are donating, to whom and how the money will be used. Include a story that touches the heart. For example, "Donate to feed the homeless" is too general. Instead write, "Without your donations, the homeless may not survive this winter. All proceeds go to providing clothing and food for the homeless."

Facts are important. They highlight the issues behind the donation. Having a few key facts about the issue on the donation box gives the donor something to contemplate and may help them realize the importance of their donation. The facts should be from reputable sources, such as aid organizations, research studies or government programs.