Storytelling is a strategic investment for nonprofits that delivers measurable returns across fundraising, brand building, and donor engagement.
What do you remember about an organization? Is it how many events they have? What subject matter experts they have on staff? How interesting their logo is?
Or, is it more likely that you remember a story about how they helped someone? A community problem they are solving? Perhaps a video clip resonates with you in some way, or you were moved by how their efforts assisted someone in need – so much so that you couldn’t stop thinking about it, days later? As social creatures, we are always in search of connections. And that’s what stories do. They connect us.
Here’s why investing in storytelling expertise is necessary for your mission’s success:
Nonprofits that leverage storytelling in their fundraising efforts see a donor retention rate of 455, compared to just 27% for organizations that do not prioritize storytelling.
Nonprofits that tell engaging stories raise twice as much money on average as those that don't.
Story-driven campaigns, especially those using video, receive up to 114% more funding than those that rely solely on facts or statistics.
Stories create strong emotional bonds between your organization and its supporters, making your mission personal and memorable.
Donors are far more likely to give, volunteer, or advocate when they feel connected to real people. In the infamous words of Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how hyou made them feel."
Authentic narratives showcase your nonprofit's impact and reinforce your mission, which builds trust and credibility with donors, partners, and the broader community.
Good storytelling (like we deliver here at Porchlight!) showcases that your organization is out there doing the work, highlighting your mission in this crowded nonprofit space, by showing tangible results to people and communities.
Social media posts that feature compelling stories generate up to 10 times more engagement than those without.
Stories don't just motivate donors - they also inspire volunteers, staff, and policymakers to rally around your cause and effect change.
PHONE: 703-705-5226 | EMAIL: lynne@porchlightstories.com
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