Stories move people more than statistics ever will. Share the real impact of your work to inspire action and build connections. Here are a few ideas how you could do this.
Highlight Real People
Instead of relying on numbers alone, show the faces and names behind your work. Whether it’s a beneficiary, volunteer, or staff member, sharing a personal narrative creates an emotional connection that simple data can’t match.
Try this today: Ask a recent beneficiary or volunteer for a quick testimonial. Gather a photo and two or three sentences explaining how your nonprofit made a difference in their life.
Paint a Before-and-After Picture
Show transformation by depicting what a situation looked like before your organization intervened and how it changed afterward. This tangible progress helps donors and supporters clearly see the impact of their support.
Try this today: Pick one recent success story and write a short paragraph describing the “before” challenge and the “after” result, emphasizing the key change.
Use Visuals to Bring Stories to Life
Photos and videos can be more powerful than words alone. Including snapshots or short clips of the people or communities you serve helps your audience envision the outcomes of your efforts.
Try this today: Share a compelling image on social media with a brief caption highlighting a personal story from your nonprofit’s work.
Incorporate Testimonials & Quotes
Let the people you’ve helped speak for themselves. A heartfelt testimonial can show authenticity and credibility, demonstrating your nonprofit’s value straight from the source.
Try this today: Reach out to a program participant or supporter for a short quote about their experience. Post it on the social media of our choice, along with their photo or a relevant graphic.
Keep It Personal & Genuine
Authenticity is key. Avoid scripted language or generic phrasing. Speak from the heart, and let your passion for the mission shine through. Your supporters want to see who you really are and why you care so deeply.
Try this today: Rewrite one piece of existing content (like a website blurb or newsletter section) in a more personal, conversational tone that matches your nonprofit’s unique voice.