Three Essential Stories You Need to Tell

In fundraising, storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and engagement. While there are many types of stories you can share, focus on perfecting these three core types first:

1. The Personal Involvement Story

Your own story of involvement is a gateway to genuine connection. When approaching potential supporters, share why you joined the cause. This story isn’t about pressuring them to donate; it’s about revealing your motivations and values. It’s a relaxed, pressure-free way to gauge their interest and find common ground. Remember, people connect with people. When they understand your ‘why,’ they’re more likely to see their values reflected in your cause.

2. The “Help is Needed” Story

This narrative is crucial. It should vividly illustrate the needs within the community and the tangible impact of what a donor’s gift can accomplish. To craft this story effectively, consider these questions: Who is your typical beneficiary? What specific support do they need? How can a donor’s contribution make a real difference? Keep this story focused and personal, avoiding technical jargon or overwhelming details. The goal is to humanize the cause and demonstrate the transformative power of a donation.

3. The Thank You Story

Expressing gratitude to donors is fundamental, but adding a twist makes it memorable. When thanking someone, also tell them how their donation made a difference. This story isn’t just pleasant; it’s vital for keeping donors engaged and feeling valued. A well-told Thank You story reinforces the impact of their gift and encourages ongoing support.

Adapting Your Storytelling Approach

Different donors and situations require different storytelling approaches. Whether it’s sharing your personal journey, illustrating the challenges and triumphs of a client, or narrating the experiences of other donors, each story serves a unique purpose. The key is to match the story to the listener’s interests and values. Always be ready to adapt, asking for feedback and gauging interest to ensure your story resonates.

Mastering these three types of stories – your personal involvement story, the impact story, and the thank you story – will help you with your fundraising. Each story type has a specific role in building trust, demonstrating impact, and reinforcing donor relationships, making them indispensable in your storytelling arsenal.

To go much deeper into how to tell stories, and how to use stories to raise money, come to this year’s Nonprofit Storytelling Conference. Click here to learn more