Email Toolkit
Personal outreach is the most effective way to inspire participation. A short email or text to someone you know is often the reason they decide to participate. Keep it personal, keep it brief and include your unique Advocate link so your impact can be tracked.
Start with the people who know you best — classmates, family, close friends, colleagues — and make it easy for them to say yes.
A Simple Formula That Works
When reaching out:
- Be genuine. Share why you care.
- Be brief. Short messages perform better.
- Make a clear ask.
- Always include your unique Advocate link.
Consider sending one message before the public launch on April 29 and another reminder on the day of to maximize participation.
Email Templates
Save the Date
Subject: Save the date: One Tribe One Day is April 29
One Tribe One Day (OTOD) is Wednesday, April 29 — mark your calendar!
It’s the day when the William & Mary community comes together for 24 hours to support the people, programs and priorities that mean the most to us.
I’ll be participating this year and would love for you to join me. I’ll share more details soon, but for now, save the date.
— [Your Name]
The Personal Ask
Subject: I’m giving to W&M today — will you join me?
Hi [Name],
Today, I’m participating in One Tribe One Day, William & Mary’s annual day of giving.
I’m supporting [area you care about] because [one sentence about why it matters to you].
Would you consider making a gift of any size and joining me? Every gift helps move the day forward.
Here’s my personal link to use [Your Advocate Link]
Thanks for joining me in giving back.
— [Your Name]
Classmate / Reunion Version
Subject: Let’s show up for W&M on OTOD
Hi [Name],
One Tribe One Day is here, and I’m serving as an Advocate this year.
I’d love to see strong participation from the Class of [Year]. If you’re able, consider making a gift to any area that matters most to you, and help us represent.
You can give via my link here: [Your Advocate Link]
Let’s make an impact together!
— [Your Name]
Match or Challenge Email (If Applicable)
Subject: Your gift will be [details of match/challenge] today
Hi [Name],
Today is One Tribe One Day (April 29) and I’m offering a [match/challenge] to encourage others to give to [area].
That means your gift will be [details].
If you’ve been meaning to give back, this is a great time to do it. You can use my link here: [Your Advocate Link]
Thanks for helping make the day count.
— [Your Name]
Day-Of Reminder
Subject: Today’s the day — One Tribe One Day
Hi [Name],
Today is One Tribe One Day!
If you’ve been thinking about making a gift, now’s the time. I’d love to see you join me in supporting [area].
Here’s my link: [Your Advocate Link]
Thank you for being part of OTOD!
— [Your Name]
Text Message Templates
Text messages are often the highest-converting form of outreach because they’re direct and personal. Keep them short and conversational.
Save the Date
Hi [Name]! Quick heads up — One Tribe One Day is April 29. It’s W&M’s annual day of giving, and I’ll be participating. I’ll share more soon, but wanted to make sure it’s on your calendar.
Simple Personal Text
Hey [Name] — I’m participating in One Tribe One Day today. I’m supporting [area] because [short reason]. Would you consider making a gift of any size? Here’s my link: [Your Advocate Link]
Short + Direct
Hi! It’s One Tribe One Day at W&M and I’m helping spread the word. If you’re able, I’d love you to join me. Here’s my link: [Your Advocate Link]
Match/Challenge Text
Quick heads up — I’m offering a [match/challenge] on One Tribe One Day, so your gift will [match/challenge details]. If you’re interested, here’s my link: [Your Advocate Link]
Day-Of Reminder Text
Today’s the day! One Tribe One Day has [X hours until the end of day] hours left. If you’ve been thinking about giving, now’s the time! Here’s my link: [Your Advocate Link]