One Meal, One Message, One Moment That Moved a Donor
The numbers say it all: When donors read a story about a specific child in need, they give more. Much more. In a well-known study, people who read a personal story gave $2.38 on average—more than double the $1.14 given by those who only read statistics (Claire Axelrad).
Why? Because numbers inform, but stories move us.
We process data in our heads. But stories? We feel those in our hearts.
Meet Eli.
Eli is seven. He’s funny, observant, and he loves building rocket ships out of cardboard. But earlier this year, Eli was often hungry. His mom worked two jobs but couldn’t always keep food in the fridge. One in six children in the U.S. lives in a household facing food insecurity, and in communities like ours, the need is growing.
Thanks to a local food assistance agency, Eli’s family now receives groceries and access to weekend food for Eli. That means Eli shows up to school focused—not distracted by hunger. He participates in class. He plays at recess. He laughs.
This is the power of one story. One child. One turning point.
Food Insecurity by the Numbers:
- More than 44 million people in the U.S., including 13 million children, face hunger (Feeding America, 2024).
- 75% of U.S. food banks report increased demand in 2024 compared to the previous year.
- Children who don’t get enough to eat are more likely to repeat a grade, experience developmental delays, and struggle with social interaction.
Donors Respond to Impact
- 79% of donors are more likely to support a cause when they see a clear connection between their gift and the outcome.
- Organizations that focus on storytelling have higher donor retention and increased average gift sizes.
Storytelling Isn’t Fluff—It’s Fuel
When we talk about storytelling, we’re not talking about decoration. We’re talking about strategy. Storytelling is how we bring people into the work. It’s how we turn statistics into someone’s son. A food box into a future.
Let’s Write Messages That Move People
Are you sharing data—or telling a story? Because one small shift can double your impact.
If you’re ready to craft clearer, more compelling stories for your mission, start with my Messaging for Impact Toolkit. It’s free—and it’ll help you:
- Ask better questions
- Share what matters most
- Match your message to the moment
[Read The Jones’ Giving Story]
Or contact me and let’s work together to write the next story that changes everything.
About Angie Thompson
I’m Angie Thompson—a fundraising strategist, published writer, and brand storyteller who believes a well-told story can spark real connection and lasting growth. For over 40 years, I’ve helped nonprofits, small businesses, and purpose-driven individuals—including solopreneurs—move beyond generic messaging into clear, compelling communication that builds trust, deepens loyalty, and inspires action. My storytelling has been featured in regional publications as well as The Office Professional Magazine (April 1996), where I wrote about turning the ordinary into the extraordinary—a theme that still guides my work today. I’ve earned two Telly Awards for post-production work and served on the board of Women in Film Dallas, collaborating with filmmakers such as Dennis Burkley to bring meaningful stories to life. Whether I’m capturing a narrative behind the lens, writing a case for support, or sharing a journey of transformation through my “Work Worth Doing” series, my goal is simple: to help good people do great work—and ensure the world sees it.