I tell folks that a well-run charity

• Will welcome their feedback on how and when to best contact them.
• Will want a positive relationship with them.
• Will not want to waste any of the money it spends on connecting with donors.

I suggest they send a letter to the charity, spelling out their wishes. Ask the charity to (a) acknowledge receipt and (b) comply. If the charity fails to acknowledge or comply — drop them. The letter can also be used with charities that use email to seek donations. Note: There may already be a mailing in process when you send the letter — don’t hold a mailing you receive in the first 30 days against the charity.

Here’s a sample letter for those who wish to be solicited just once, at the end of the year (feel free to use it or adapt it for other wishes):

[Donor Name and Address]

[Date]

[Charity Name and Address]

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I have donated to you because I care about your work and mission.

I am writing to let you know my preferences concerning contact from you.

• Mailed program updates, newsletters, financial updates, volunteer opportunities, donation thank yous and similar mailings are fine (but not if they include a solicitation).
• Mailed donation solicitations are fine, but just once a year during the months of October, November or December.
• Telephone calls for any purpose (other than in prompt response to a direct inquiry from me) are not wanted.
  

I’m interested in minimizing the use and expense of paper. If and when you have an online way for me to manage my preferences, please notify me by mail. If and when you have a way for me access other information online (instead of through the mail) please notify me by mail.

Please acknowledge in writing your receipt of this request.

If you fail to honor my request, I will stop donating to you.

Sincerely,