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Nonprofit Committee - Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce The Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber's May 2025 Nonprofit Newsletter Strategy and Storytelling for Fundraising Success by Mary Foster If you missed the information-packed April Nonprofit bootcamp here is a summary of the first segment...Telling a Compelling Story. 1. What makes a compelling story? It must be your own message...one that is unique to the organization. The message must be crystal clear on both the problem and the solution. The heart in the message needs to be blended with data or statistics. Focus on the human element. 2. A good message needs to be delivered by a relatable storyteller. That is someone who knows the audience and mirrors the message. For example, someone who has benefitted from your program or perhaps someone who has lived experience that mirrors the circumstances of those being served by your programs. Finding multiple Ambassadors to get your story out can be effective if they represent different aspects of your programs and mirror your message. They can be family members of clients, Board members, staff and donors. Make sure they have the data and key points of the program and any video testimonials. 3. Data and statistics are important to create an actionable message. By blending specific data into your message, your supporters will understand the impact your organization is having. So, what kind of data do you select? Look for data that quantifies how much the organization does and the impact it has. For example, the number of clients in recovery without the ability to pay or the number of clients that have been permanently housed or the number of families receiving aid for a child with disabilities. The success of the support services can be described in terms of positive impact to the community and individual. Data can also be used to describe how much a dollar of donation “buys” in the terms of services. 4. Getting the message out needs to be hands-on. Effective storytelling doesn’t rely on social media and mailed media alone. It requires the organization to get out into the community to talk to collaborators, supporters, organizers, community groups, business groups, potential funders and peers. Earned media, like op eds and newspaper articles can reach a broad audience but also be part of information packages used to train the organization’s spokespersons. Planning and scheduling are essential for these activities to be effective. A well-coordinated plan ensures the correct message is heard by the right audience. 5. Do it throughout the year. There is no “right time” to get the message out. Storytelling isn’t limited to end of year appeals, or Giving Tuesday, or special months or galas. Effective Storytelling is a year-round activity. Line up your messengers, finesse your story, and work your stats! (fb)