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Sample Script


Hello, may I speak to ________ please?

 

My name is _________ and I’m calling on behalf of the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign. 

 

May I have a few moments of your time to talk about this year’s Campaign?

 

“No”   
Is there a better time that someone could call?  

“Yes” 
Thank you very much. Your support makes a difference and is much appreciated. 

 

I’m calling today about our 2022 Annual Campaign, which is really focused on ensuring that our community emerges from the pandemic with a secure and thriving future. We’re especially concerned because so many are still struggling, be it financial, mental health, or physical health challenges. If you or someone you know needs assistance, we are here to help. 

 

So before I begin: How are you today? Have you done anything special this past summer or year? (or ask any other open-ended question to invite some warm conversation.)

 

Last year, our focus was on resilience and getting the community through the darkest periods of this crisis. Federation is working now to build our community’s recovery. 2021 will be a make-or-break year for so many in our community—and why your philanthropic leadership is so critical right now. 

 

That’s why we’re asking: Will you join us in leading our community’s recovery? Can we count on your gift to our 2022 Annual Campaign? 

 

(If they can donate) Thank you so much. Last year you made a gift of $XX dollars—would you be able to increase your gift by 15% this year to $XX? [Please consult your donor card to determine what increase in gift you should ask from the donor] 

(If they cannot increase by XX%) Not a problem. Would you be able to renew your gift from last year at the same level?
Thank you! Your generosity will make a difference!

 

This pledge is due by December 31, 2022. However, we encourage you to consider monthly payments on your credit card. Payments can be made by credit card, cheque (payable to the Jewish Federation of Ottawa) or online at jewishottawa.com/annual-campaign-donate. How would you like to pay?

 

Can I take a moment to confirm your address?

Your e-mail address?

Your cell phone number?


On behalf of the community, thank you for your support of the Federation and our community.


Have a good day/afternoon/evening!

Optional script:

A) For those in need: 

 
If it sounds like they are in significant need—i.e. have lost a job, are isolated and need help, have lost a loved one to COVID-19, etc.—then we should NOT proceed with a fundraising ask. Simply listen and conclude with some of the following lines that make sense, based on context.
 
I’m so sorry to hear about your situation. The needs have really grown since the pandemic began. It’s heartbreaking to see the impact on so many community members. Thank you so much for taking the time. Please know that we’re here for you—let us know if we can help in any way. 
 
If it appears, the donor requires assistance from the community
Jewish Federation of Ottawa has an entire network of support in place to assist those in the community who could use some assistance. We really are here to help—would you like me to follow up with a Federation team member to get in touch with you to see how they may be able to assist?
 

B) For those not in need (i.e. “I’m doing okay.”): 

I want to talk to you today about how Federation is working towards building our community’s recovery and security. 
 
The crisis is continuing. In many ways, it has gotten worse than when the pandemic started. 

(Pick and choose from the options below)
 
• Growing mental health challenges—many who never previously struggled now need help and don’t know where to turn. 
• A lot of community members who lost work are still looking for new jobs. 
• Many small business owners—especially small family businesses like restaurants—have been devastated and will never be the same. 
• For many, pre-existing addictions have been enflamed by isolation and other personal crises. 
• The stress and pressure has led to many family breakdowns. 
• Many Jewish families are struggling to afford essential Jewish programming for their kids. 
 

Last year, our focus was on resilience and getting the community through the darkest periods of this crisis. Federation is working now to build our community’s recovery. 
 
2021 will be a make-or-break year for so many in our community—and why your philanthropic leadership is so critical right now. 
 
That’s why we’re asking: Will you join us in leading our community’s recovery? Can we count on your gift to our 2022 Annual Campaign?