Why Print Newsletters Are Still Essential for Nonprofits

Organizations increasingly turn to online platforms for communication and engagement. Social media, websites, and email newsletters have become staples of nonprofit outreach. One of the main reasons is that they are often less expensive to produce and distribute than their print counterparts. Amid this digital revolution, however, it’s important to remember the key role that print newsletters still play in the nonprofit world.

While digital channels offer speed, cost-effectiveness, and global reach, print newsletters provide unique benefits that cannot be replicated by digital content. This tangible form of communication continues to be a useful tool in strengthening relationships, enhancing visibility, and ensuring inclusivity.

Psst! If your organization operates on a tight budget, remember that LPi can print and distribute your newsletters at no cost! We do this by securing paid ads from businesses in your community that would like to reach your audience. Learn more about our newsletter service and reach out today to get started!

6 Reasons Why Nonprofits Still Need Print Newsletters

• Tangibility builds trust:  Print newsletters create a tangible connection between a nonprofit and its audience. When people receive something in the mail, they are more likely to engage with it because of its tactile nature. Print materials also create a lasting impression. In fact, studies have shown that people are more likely to remember information delivered through print than digital formats, which can be easily ignored or skimmed over.

• Print reaches a broader audience:  Not all supporters of a nonprofit are digitally connected or comfortable with technology. While younger generations are often online-savvy, older donors or community members may prefer receiving communications in physical form. For nonprofits that serve a diverse demographic, print newsletters are essential for reaching this more traditional audience who might not engage with digital content.

• Opportunity for personalization:  Print newsletters offer a unique opportunity for personalization. While digital communication can be customized to include a donor’s name or specific interests, print newsletters can include handwritten notes or personalized inserts, giving a more individual touch. This level of personalization helps build a deeper connection with recipients.

• Forge stronger donor bonds:  Print newsletters help strengthen relationships between nonprofit organizations and their donor base. When someone subscribes to or donates to a cause, that connection is reinforced by receiving regular updates. For many donors, reading articles in a print newsletter about how their money is being put to good use can help reaffirm that their decision to make a financial contribution was a wise one.

• Break from digital overload:  We know that people sometimes feel bombarded by digital messages. Print newsletters provide a refreshing break. A newsletter can be picked up and read it at leisure. This distinction can make a nonprofit’s message stand out from the electronic noise.

• Effective fundraising tool:  Print newsletters can also be a powerful tool for fundraising campaigns. Nonprofits can use them to reach potential major donors to make specific requests, highlight matching gifts, or promote special events. A physical newsletter can include response cards, donation envelopes, and other materials that make it easy for supporters to take immediate action.

Get Up to Date on Print Trends

If your organization has been relying primarily on digital newsletters to communicate with supporters and donors, figuring out how to get up and running with a print version might feel overwhelming. One article to review for more tips is “Exploring Current Trends in Print,” where you’ll find useful advice for getting your print newsletter off to a successful launch.

If you’d like some more one-on-one guidance, remember: LPi’s exceptional newsletter service offers expert guidance, design, content, printing, and distribution. Contact us to learn more!