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 What is the story behind how your nonprofit organization was created? How did your nonprofit organization decide on its mission and the issues you support? What are you doing to make a positive impact in your community?
Make it a priority to tell your story. Tell your community members why you do what you do, how you help out in the community, and what your nonprofit organization does to better the community.
Show your passion for the issues your nonprofit organization addresses and communicate the benefits your community will receive from contributions. People want to support an issue they feel connected to, and want to give to a nonprofit organization that they know is making a difference. Create loyal donors and volunteers who find what you do useful and feel connected to a story that moves them.
A great example of an organization that tells a story and connects with their supporters is TOMS. TOMS is a for-profit organization that goes above and beyond just selling pairs of shoes. For every pair of shoes that is purchased, a new pair of shoes goes to a child in need. They connect with their supporters by telling a story and creating a meaningful experience.
Nonprofit organizations are remarkable because they are all about giving to others and serving the community. However, many people may not be aware of the story behind your nonprofit organization or why you do what you do in the community. By telling a memorable story about who you are and what your mission is, you will not only see an increase in contributions, but will also notice a following of dedicated supporters to your nonprofit organization.
Telling your story must be a major area of focus at your nonprofit organization. Commit to telling your story at every opportunity, in order to get the word out and gain support. Share your story in your slogan and mission statement, and put your story up on your Web site, just as TOMS has done. Include your story in printed materials, social media, and your blog. People want to be connected to something that they believe in, that makes a positive impact in their community, or the world. Tell people why they should be connected to your nonprofit organization by telling your story.
Once you begin telling your story, you will want to find out what the community thinks. A community survey is a great tool to assess whether or not people are hearing your story and what they think of your message and your nonprofit organization.
At Perspectives, we conduct community surveys to identify community awareness and perceptions, to evaluate the effectiveness of communication methods, and to gain support in contributions and volunteerism. A community survey is beneficial to your nonprofit organization, as it assesses what the community thinks and gives you insight on how to achieve support and success now and in the future.
For more information on community surveys, click here. If you have any questions on the services we can provide for your nonprofit organization, contact us at (269) 657-5400 or e-mail us at
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For more information on telling your story, check out the book "Start Something That Matters," by Blake Mycoskie, the founder of TOMS.
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