Create an “In Honor of…” fund. Birthdays, anniversaries, special events, remembrances, all are perfect opportunities to remember a friend or loved one with a donation to a worthy cause, in this case your LLI. Tributes should be mentioned in the LLI newsletter of course, and tribute envelopes can be given out in class or at registration for future use by members.

Send an Annual Appeal mailing to your members. An appeal letter is not only a great way to raise money, it is a way to deepen members’ understanding of the LLI’s mission and its value to the community. Besides that, it’s habit forming. Donor renewals every year can generate a stable source of support and encourage your members to think of the LLI when planning their estates.

Offer program sponsorships to businesses. Local businesses are an excellent way to help sponsor that special program. Financial planners, investment brokers, insurance companies, lawyers, home health providers, supermarkets, real estate companies, assisted living facilities, travel companies and credit unions all want their names before the public. What better way than with mention in your program brochures? LLI Board members can help identify these businesses and make introductions.

Create an LLI Books to Business program. Develop a list of volunteers who would like to donate time to help local businesses, perhaps during a “crunch” time. The LLI then receives a donation from the business for each volunteer’s time. Not only does the LLI benefit financially; this program also strengthens LLI Up Your Check campaign. Members round up their checks for class fees, special events, registration, etc. All contributions of $5 or more can then be published in the LLI newsletter, strengthening feelings of connection between the donor, the LLI and other members.

Institute a Support Your LLI ticket program. Add a $1.00 fee to all tickets purchased by ILR members for trips, tours and events. Cultural organizations do this all the time. Group travel can generate a lot of money every year in net revenue for an LLI, and members still get excellent value for their money.