You hear this referenced a lot, that storytelling is important. (Hence it being one of the trends we’re discussing this month!) But why, you may ask? Your story adds value to what you say and do. Every event and opportunity you offer as a way to get involved is improved by supporters hearing and understanding your story. Your nonprofit story can add value through furthering connections, measuring impact, and weaving constituent stories into your own.
Value From Connections
Relationships that are built with your donors and volunteers give depth to your story. The way you began, the mission you have, growth you have experienced, that is all made possible because of the support you have built over the years. You must be sure to track all the many interactions you have had over the years in a database, so that when the time comes to flesh out your story, you have the content needed.
Value From Impact
Value is added when you note the impact that your nonprofit has made in the community, the state, the country, and the world. From reports pulled you can get the statistics to thread through your story, but it’s the testimonies from those who have served and been served that really put a special touch on your story. The impact you have made goes further than you probably realize; be sure to measure it, in order to share and grow it.
Value From Other’s Stories
In addition to testimonies from those you have served, focus on stories of constituents and how they came to support your mission. This perspective can partner well with the testimonies to form a big picture look at what your nonprofit aims to accomplish. The passion you have for the work you do will shine through your storytelling. Attach these testimonies to their records for future reference in a system tailored to propel your storytelling efforts to new heights.
Need some help telling your story, and tracking all those a part of it? Connect with us, and we’ll get the conversation started today!
Marianna Woodruff is Director of Brand Awareness at DonorLynk, LLC. DonorLynk aims to provide nonprofits with tailored solutions that work for you, not against you.