Driving engagement, donors, and impact
For nonprofits, storytelling isn’t just a marketing tactic: it’s how you build trust, inspire giving, mobilize volunteers, and convey your mission. This edition of The Leadership Lab explores effective storytelling for mission-driven organizations.
Nonprofits often struggle to tell their story because of limited resources, skills, or technology. Stories help people connect emotionally to the work and remember facts. They are a powerful tool to demonstrate impact and bring data to life. Check out these resources on why storytelling is so critical, and some storytelling strategies to try out in your work.
LISTEN & LEARN
Nonprofit Leadership: How Storytelling Builds Powerful, Engaging Leaders: Nathan Young of StoryCulture Consulting joins the Nonprofit Pulse podcast to speak on leaders and storytelling. Listen here »
Nonprofit Marketing: Why Video Storytelling for Nonprofits Works and How to Do It Well: Pat Taggart of SkyBlue Creative on video storytelling for the Nonprofit Pulse podcast. Listen here »
READ & REFLECT
“Nonprofits face a tough funding landscape. They hope better storytelling will bring more donations” (Glenn Gamboa, Associated Press): Reviews how nonprofits are utilizing storytelling. Read here »
“Nonprofit Storytelling: Why It Matters and How to Do It Effectively” (Suzanne Wentley, Constant Contact): An overview of nonprofit storytelling and strategies. Read here »
WATCH & GROW
The Secret to Telling a Great Story — in Less Than 60 Seconds
Jenny Hoyos, viral social media creator, shares the key to a great story. Watch here »
TRY IT OUT
Doug Scott writes a how-to guide on video marketing for nonprofits on the MightyCause blog. Check it out here »
Practice your storytelling with our worksheet. Download here »
Dive deeper with our guided journaling. Download here »
