"When I learned I had to develop [a] case in just 3 weeks -- including research, writing and layout -- I was terrified. But your book calmed my fears. With your guidance I was able to produce a compelling and cost-effective case. As we approach the season of gratitude, I want you to know you have made an important difference in my work...." Shelly Ross, Stewardshop.biz, writing in November 2009

"...perfect for the time-strapped nonprofit staffer ... who wants to create consistent, compelling messages that will make it past the filters of equally time-strapped donors." Review by Sandy Pon, in the Philanthropy News Digest, July 16, 2009

CHAPTERS

1 -- Do you need this book?
2 -- And if you are in a capital campaign
3 -- Types of cases: A shopping guide
4 -- Why you matter to donors
5 -- Writing a fabulous case is easy
6 -- The case writing process: An overview
7 -- Day 1: Gather your pile of information
8 -- Also on Day 1: Decide about interviews
9 -- Day 2: Conduct your interviews
10 -- What kinds of interview questions
11 -- Day 3: Skim the cream
12 -- Wanted: Emotional triggers and benefits
13 -- Day 4: The internal case emerges
14 -- Day 5: Start writing (How long a case should be)
15 -- What do you call it?
16 -- The marketing brief: Your skeleton
17 -- Writing ills: The doctor is in (Dance of the 4 veils)
18 -- Telling your story (1)
19 -- Telling your story (2)
20 -- Telling your story (3)
21 -- Telling your story (4)
22 -- Prepare to be browsed
23 -- Make your case bigger than you
24 -- Put it in a nutshell, too
25 -- Take your prospect on a verbal tour
26 -- How you say things does matter
27 -- The cherry on top
28 -- The call to action
29 -- The role of visuals
30 -- "I'll know a great case when I see it"
31 -- Reality check