DEVELOPING STUDENT COMMUNICATION SKILLS WHILE ASSISTING NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

摘要

These two innovative assignments were very effective. Students were more motivated to write effective persuasive letters because they were given client-based assignments that made a difference to them. Writing to persuade businesses and to alumni to donate to nonprofit organizations was a win-win situation for all parties involved. In the first assignment, the students' writing expertise was acknowledged through documented donations. The nonprofit organizations received much-needed donations, and the for-profit donor companies gained community visibility and a tax deduction. Students focused on the needs of their chosen nonprofit organizations, and their letters persuaded for-profit companies to donate money, goods, or services. In the process of refining this assignment, we emphasized documentation of the gift, which reinforced good business practices.