The Problem: No Story, No Connection
When I began working with a local nonprofit, I found what many of us in fundraising know all too well:
Plenty of heart. Strong programs. But no storytelling.
No consistent voice.
No emotional rhythm.
Just one year-end appeal asking for support.
In short—A single year-end appeal wasn’t a strategy. It was a transaction. And while it might have generated results, it wasn’t engaging donors at the highest level possible.
The Shift: strategy meets story
So, we changed the approach.
I introduced two simple—but transformational—tools:
- A quarterly storytelling calendar
- A story-driven structure focused on the donor’s impact
Each issue featured a real person or family whose life had been changed by generosity. We shifted from listing services to telling stories of transformation—connecting the dots between giving and tangible, human outcomes.
The Results: Engagement That Speaks Volumes
Within just one year, donor engagement increased by 175%.
- More gifts
- More thank you messages
- And donors saying: “Now I really see what we’re doing.”
The newsletter became more than an update. It became the voice of the mission.
Why It Worked: Human. Heartfelt. Honest.
Because here’s the truth:
- Donors don’t want more emails.
- They want meaning.
- They want to see the difference they’re making.
Donor-centered storytelling builds trust, deepens loyalty, and turns updates into connection.
It’s not fluff. It’s fuel.
What It Means for You
If your newsletters feel like updates no one reads—or your appeals sound more like invoices than invitations—it might be time to lead with a better story.
One that draws people in, makes them feel something, and shows them how they belong in the mission.
I’ve spent 20 years helping nonprofits engage donors, build relationships, and move from “ask” to action.
Let’s turn your newsletter into more than a touchpoint.
Let’s make it a turning point.
Let’s create a lasting touchpoint strategy that changes lives. Contact us for personalized consulting.
Jordan’s Story: Persistence in Motion
By Angie Thompson
Jordan White always walked fast. Not because she was in a hurry, but because she was determined—and determination has a pace all its own.
Born into a working-class family and raised by her mother in a modest duplex just outside Tulsa, Jordan learned early that life wouldn’t hand her anything. Her mom worked long hours at a local grocery chain, often did without, so Jordan could have what she needed. From the cracked linoleum floors to the late nights spent studying by a dim table lamp, every detail of Jordan’s early life was laced with grit. [Read Jordan’s story]
Jordan White
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 and into clear, compelling communication that builds trust, deepens loyalty, and inspires action. Whether I’m shaping a campaign, writing a case statement, or capturing a narrative behind the lens, my goal is simple: To help good people do great work—and get noticed for it.