Melanie Frazier, director of development at the Winnetka Community House, in Illinois., is the latest fund raiser to ask Prospecting readers for advice on a direct-mail letter.

Ms. Frazier said the draft letter that follows will include a perforated stub that provides prospective donors with a choice of seven amounts they can choose to give.

As always, we ask that you provide constructive advice. We’ll share the next draft of her letter once it is available.

Since 1911, the mission of the Winnetka Community House has been to develop strong bodies and alert minds for social opportunity, and to provide a place for community interaction and life enriching programs. We ask that you lend your support as we approach our 98th year.

The generosity of others has allowed us to provide the type of programming and services our community desires. Permit me to share a letter we received from a mother describing her son’s experience at the Winnetka Community House.

When I walk through the Winnetka Community House (WCH) and envision what my child sees through his eyes, I see a place that is warm, inviting, safe and happy. The WCH is bustling with a welcoming happiness, children and adults enjoying themselves. The rooms filled with so many different activities and possibilities. My child thinks, “I could do that.” My son feels at home – actually, he likes to spend his time at the WCH. This means so much to me as a parent.

Our family first visited the WCH when John was 11 years old. Today John is 13. Tremendous growth and change happen during these years. This change can move in different directions depending on which way a child is influenced. Children learn through all of their senses, especially through what we do. It is truly wonderful that our community has a place for our children and their families that is so conducive to our children’s growth and development. I want to express my gratitude to all those who have been responsible for providing this environment for our families. A predictable environment. A gift for our kids. I have watched John develop into a young teenager with good values and self-discipline.

Through the years, the impact of our programs has been consistent, and the stories have had a similarly grateful tone. Each year we approach individuals, foundations and corporations in the community to raise money to help make up the difference between fees we obtain and our mounting expenses. In 97 years, we have never received tax support. We rely on donors to make our ongoing programs and services possible.

We have been able to undertake important new initiatives such as programming for school age groups during evenings and weekends. The vital services we provide are possible because of the thoughtful generosity of others. Your gift provides an environment of growth and life long learning for children like John, adults and their families. Thank you for joining me in supporting this community treasure.

Sincerely,

P.S. Please enjoy the enclosed gift of six post cards featuring scenes and memories from our historic past. We thank you and appreciate your support.

If you’d like to submit your appeal letter so readers of Prospecting can offer their suggestions, please send an e-mail message to Peter Panepento.

You can also check out a recent direct-mail makeover for a North Carolina religious charity.