Hit local businesses first, google all of the national companies and restaurants that are within 20 miles radius and follow the instructions on their websites. Its a lot of legwork and computer related. Have your IRS letter handy as you will need it.
Have a generic mockup letter ready on the schools letterhead and make sure you pay attention to peoples names and donation items you are requesting.
Everything else is up to your luck. Some will donate some will just let you know that they are committed to "bigger and better" charity work (like nintendo,ll bean, lands end, and you get the idea).
Look for local artists and writers, post adds on CL in the music section, small business adds (promising them fee advertising opp. in exchange for a donation of their time, service or a gift basket but have a minimum req. for that)
You local teams might donate signed items. I have basically contacted every company that I do business with and most companies have the donation request instructions on ther website, usually under community involvment or relations and if you are not sue just click on the contact us button and they will respond.
I love this site. I am just starting to send out letters and do on line requests.
Can someone please let me know how to get in touch with disney and coach.
