Summary

In this episode, Kelly discusses the need to craft compelling narratives that resonate emotionally and intellectually with the audience. The conversation also touches on the various formats of annual reports and how they influence the storytelling approach, encouraging organizations to reflect on their most significant developments and how to present them effectively.

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Takeaways

• The framework of annual reports is changing due to better donor communication.
• Storytelling is crucial in annual reports to engage donors.
• Crafting narratives involves making donors feel and think.
• Different formats require different storytelling approaches.
• Client stories are common, but institutional storytelling is also important.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Fridays 4 Fundraising

00:48 This Week's Focus: Annual Reports & Storytelling

01:34 How to Pick Stories for Your Annual Report

04:42 Resources to Support You

06:04 This Week's Assignment: Decide How to Tell a Story

Keywords

annual reports, storytelling, nonprofit communication, donor engagement, data presentation, narrative crafting, client stories, organizational growth, impact stories, communication strategies

Summary

In this episode of Fridays 4 Fundraising, Kelly discusses how annual reports are evolving, emphasizing the need for innovative formats that engage donors effectively. She highlights the shift away from traditional, lengthy reports towards more dynamic and accessible options, such as short PDFs, videos, and community engagement events. The focus is on understanding donor preferences and creating meaningful connections through impactful communication.

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Request a Discovery Call with Kelly: https://www.fromscratchfundraising.com/schedule

Takeaways

• Annual reports are evolving; there's no one-size-fits-all format.
• Donors are less interested in traditional printed reports.
• Engagement with donors should be frequent and dynamic.
• Consider your audience's preferences when creating reports. Shorter, more visual formats can be more effective.
• Community-building events can replace traditional reports.
• Focus on the impact of donations to retain donor interest.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Fridays 4 Fundraising

00:48 This Week's Focus: Formats for Your Annual Report

01:07 How To Pick the Right Format for Your Annual Report

06:09 This Week's Assignment: Pick an Annual Report Format

06:30 Resources to Get You Growing

Keywords

annual reports, donor engagement, nonprofit fundraising, impact reporting, communication strategies

Episode Summary

Summary

In this episode of Fridays 4 Fundraising, Kelly chats about the importance of conducting post-year-end gratitude campaigns to build donor loyalty. She discusses how organizations often bombard donors with requests for money without following up on the impact of their contributions. By effectively communicating the outcomes of donations and treating donors as partners, nonprofits can foster stronger relationships and encourage continued support.

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Note: We only support U.S.-based nonprofit organizations that are IRS designated 501(c)(3) organizations or that are fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3) organization.

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Takeaways

• Put equal effort into thanking donors as you do in asking for money.
• Donors want to know what happened after they donated.
• Treat donors as partners in your mission, not just sources of funds.
• Donors are passionate about the causes they support; acknowledge that passion.
• Creating a sustainable fundraising strategy is essential for long-term success.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Fridays 4 Fundraising

00:48 This Week's Focus: Gratitude After Year End

03:14 How to Do Gratitude Campaigns

05:32 This Week's Assignment: Find a Way to Partner with Your Donors

06:15 Fundraising Resource You can Afford

Keywords

fundraising, donor loyalty, gratitude campaigns, nonprofit, communication, donor engagement, fundraising strategy, donor partnership, nonprofit management, fundraising success