i called each every one

before sending draft and template, call and ask them if they are willing to do so. most of them are willing to help and asked for template or draft. i then send it, and called if they received and if the format everything is ok, then politly let them know that i need the letter very urgently and ask them when they think they would be able to get back to me. i called them roughly at the time they said they would get back to me and ask them if they need more information etc.

you have to control the whole process. you can not play a lazy farmers role by spreading seeds to soil and waiting to harvest without doing anythng.

be active and patient. good luck.