Prepared to launch a fund-raising effort for your Wauwatosa non-profit organization … but unclear where to start? Perhaps the staffer who directed the previous outreach retired or departed? Or, you’re just short on workers and long on work?
You need a turnkey mailing service that comprehends how direct mail for non-profits works. In other words, you need Bresser’s Information Services, a mail service provider (MSP) that does the heavy lifting fund-raising can be imposing, and ripe for pitfalls. How do non-profit postage rates function? Which types of operations are eligible? Can any materials be mailed, or only specific types?
First, a definition. Non-profit mail is printed material eligible to be sent as USPS Marketing Mail®, by organizations authorized by the Postal Service™, at significantly reduced non-profit postage rates.
You can realize tremendous savings on postage … as long as you obey the rules. Bresser’s Information Services understands them inside and out, and is ready to help.
Remember, nothing that has to be sent via First Class Mail® qualifies for non-profit rates. The rules are clearly laid out. Unbendable. Don’t even try.
So, what can you send at non-profit rates? Self-mailers, letters, newsletters and booklets weighing less than 16 ounces can classify for USPS Marketing Mail®.
Only materials of authorized organizations, registered as non-profits with USPS, can be mailed at non-profit rates. Stated otherwise, don’t try to ride the non-profit status of another Wauwatosa organization. It won’t fly. Authorized organizations are prohibited from sharing their mailing privilege. Apply for your own.
How? Complete PS Form 3624, Application to Mail at Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail® Prices. Be ready to show evidence that your organization is a legal non-profit. Fill out the form completely. Doing so can be the difference in a decision returning in days, versus weeks.
Is your Wauwatosa organization eligible? Probably, as long as your due diligence is complete. The categories of organizations eligible for Nonprofit USPS Marketing Mail® rates are many: philanthropic, religious, educational, veterans, scientific, labor, fraternal, political … the list goes on.
Got your non-profit authorization? Great. Let’s get down to business. Bresser’s Information Services will mail on your organization’s behalf, using our mailing permit.
There’s a reason our name includes “services,” though. We don’t stop at preparing your mail for the greatest postage savings, and delivering it at the post office.
We provide advice on designing your mail piece. Print your materials in full color. Populate and expand your mailing list, using recipients known to donate to specific causes. Polish up your list, deleting vacant and duplicate addresses. Find new addresses for recipients who have relocated.
Since its founding in 1946, Bresser’s Information Services has printed, addressed and mailed millions of fund-raising materials. We know the rules, the rates, and how to land your fund-raising outreach in the right hands.
Contact us to initiate your next Wauwatosa fund-raising campaign. We’re a mail house, for sure – one dedicated to keeping your non-profit house strong, vibrant, and doing good work in the community.