non profit organization needs help?

Question

Please help us. My non profit organization is a family service center. We need 2 computers for our GED learning center we also do tutoring for school aged children how can we go about getting just 2 to help us out without having to go though the hassle of grant writing

Answer 1

I can think of a couple ways to get these items

1st check your local university/college. They often have an office surplus website or storage facility that has computers in it. You may be able talk them into giving two to you.

2nd write donation letters to people in your community that might have a computer to give you or money towards a computer. I have fundraised over 12,000$ this way. Below is more info. on how to do this.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Write a letter to local businesses and universities/colleges.
Write a general letter but be professional stating who you are and what you are doing. At the end make sure to say you will write them a receipt for their donation so they can write it off with their taxes and that you will promote them in some way. At the end of the letter or on a seperate sheet of paper provide an itemization of expenses (list your expenses and their approximate costs) be sure to state that any donation would be accepted.
Tips: the more letters you send out the more money you will make, the earlier you send them the more money you will make, universities are a great source of money but be sure to send to all departments in the university, start with local businesses (the home grown type) then branch out to more well known places, start with businessed pertaining to your need, ask for things besides money (always include money but you can ask for other things as well such as computers) if you know the manager of the store address the letter to them although this is not necessary, follow up in person if you have the resources although this is not necessary.
I'm telling you this really really works. And copy shops will usually donate copies to you so that you don't have to pay the expense of copying your letters. If it is an annual event you can usually depend on regular contributers after the first year so be sure to send out thank you letters.

Answer 2

Your best bet, and probably the best quality, for tutors is volunteers. You will find retired teachers, scientist, engineers, authors and a host of other professions represented, and willing to help out, in your neighborhood. Talk with your local newspaper about advertising for volunteers.