I think you can get as creative as you want to be. <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> I'm putting together a cookbook and there has been a lot of interest and participation. For example, I'm having CF patients and parents alike send in their favorite recipes (for CF reasons or not) and sort of explain their "story." My son will be doing the artwork on the front to give a personal touch. If people don't choose to share any info or stories, I just have them sign their name with a short explanation like "Mary Smith: proud Grandma to Ethan w/CF."
Have you contacted any businesses around your area to see if they'd be willing to sell sneakers? These can be sold each for $1 or $5 and then the person who purchases them can sign their name. If the business is willing, they'll usually post these up on a wall for others to see. I did this one year with a big poster of my son and explanation of cf.
Maybe think about changin your letter up a little every year. I always revise mine to keep it fresh. Try adding a color photo or taking a new fun approach with your writing style.
If you have any contact with local schools or teachers, some classes have fun participating in "jar wars" to see who can raise the most $$. Usually, a pizza place around here is willing to provide the winning classroom with a pizza party.
These are just a few ideas off the top of my head. If I think of more, I'll post them. Good luck! You don't have to stick just to your letter writing campaign - get creative & have a good time with it or you'll burn out. <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
Carey
