Many of my engagements start as “fundraising” asks. But, fundraising isn’t about asking using the right words. It’s about solid programs solving real problems with impact communicated effectively. In my experience, storytelling is key.

During December of 2024, I ran end-of-year campaigns for two organizations of drastically different sizes. One had a fundraising goal of $25,000; the other, $250,000. One organization is 5 years old; the other, 103. For each, we released a weekly story about someone impacted by the work. To avoid exploiting current service recipients (or the appearance), we highlighted employees at both organizations - in both cases, some of the employees had previously been clients.

Both of the organizations faced challenges. For the younger organization, the donor pool was small. The work of cultivation had not necessarily been done to support solicitation efforts. At the other, we were managing against hopelessness. How do we raise money when an incoming administration might aim to end the work you do?

We raised over $38,000 on that $25,000 goal. On the $250,000 goal, we raised more than $650,000.

Storytelling, when done well, is an incredibly powerful tool in explaining how the work you’re doing is making a real impact on the lives of actual people. If you can get people to share their stories, you will secure the funds to create more of them.

Some links to the stories below:

I’m so grateful to those that allowed me to tell their stories. Thank you.