Hi Kathleen, as fundraisers and grantwriters we have all had the heartbreak of a turndown. The first thing you want to do is pick up the phone, call them, and out and out ask them why? Then ask What? what they are funding now, what would they like to see, etc. This is my approach now. I take the time to talk with them and make notes. Some people are wary or scared of calling a foundation and asking questions. I have alwasy gotten a positive response when I do this. The foundation people actually appreciate the gesture as it may save them looking at grants they don't find appropriate. Tiger Woods has target communities they work with now and they may not want to expand on that at this time. There is nothing to be afraid of when asking, how can I fit into your funding program? I do all the time and I am proud to say I have a 87% positive funding rate. For a person in AL I get a lot of grants from all over the USA. But I work at it. I make the calls, I send emails, and I make sure I give the funders what they ask for. Ask questions, I think you will find it pays. Good luck. Diane
