Utilizing Story in Your Fundraising Efforts

Key Takeaways:

  • Psychology of Storytelling:

    • Stories are memorable because they connect new information to existing narratives, acting as a cognitive shorthand for retaining complex details.

  • Story Impact:

    • A single impactful story about an individual resonates more effectively with donors than broad statistics.

  • Story Structure for Fundraising:

    • The narrative framework—featuring a character, setting, conflict, and resolution—is crucial to crafting compelling stories.

  • Practical Application:

    • Stories should be rehearsed to ensure authenticity and effectiveness when engaging potential donors.

Jake Lyons, CFRE, CNP

Jake is a full-time philanthropy professional, educator, and speaker. Jake manages fundraising campaigns, fund development assessments, audits, and feasibility studies. He also creates all subject matter and curriculum for the CFRE accredited conference series, the PRIDE Development Institute.

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Full Guide: Nonprofit Planned Giving