The following is a guest post by Carly Euler, Marketing Manager at MemoryFox:

Did you know that, according to the Stanford School of Business, stories are remembered up to 22 times more than facts alone? With this in mind, it’s absolutely essential for nonprofits to harness great stories that will “stick” with their audience of current and potential donors. 

When it comes to nonprofit storytelling, sharing personal experiences of those your mission serves is a popular and successful fundraising tactic. But it's not the only story worth telling. Today, I challenge you to consider out-of-the-box stories from all of the perspectives surrounding your organization. Let's explore six types of nonprofit testimonials that can captivate your audience and spark their philanthropic spirit.

1. Program Participant Testimonials

As mentioned, this is by far the most common type of nonprofit testimonial - and with good reason! Putting the storytelling power in the hands of those you serve provides a human perspective on your organization's impact. These testimonials highlight real, authentic change and empower beneficiaries to have their voices heard exactly as they’d like to be represented. 

Conversation Starters:

• How did [organization] help you overcome the challenges you were facing?

• Where would you be today without [organization]?

Bonus Tip: It’s important to consider that some program participants may prefer anonymity. In these cases, you can use composite stories or voiceovers to share their experiences without revealing identities. Check out the 2023 Ethical Storytelling Report to learn more about these strategies. 

2. Volunteer Experiences

Volunteers are the heartbeat of many nonprofits. Their testimonials offer a unique, boots-on-the-ground perspective that can serve to humanize your cause while inspiring others to get involved.

Conversation Starters:

• Can you tell us about your first time volunteering with [organization]?

• How does volunteering with [organization] make you feel?

3. Donor Testimonials

Donor stories explain why individuals support your cause, offering valuable insights into how outsiders view your mission. Sharing these perspectives makes your mission a two-way conversation, which ultimately fosters community and encourages recurring giving.

Conversation Starters:

• What makes [organization] special to you among many nonprofits?

• Why did you decide to donate to [organization] today?

4. Staff Stories

Transparency is a massive obstacle for many nonprofits. Prioritizing staff testimonials provides a behind-the-scenes look at the people driving your mission, which gives much-needed context to how funds are used. Donors love to see how their dollars are being spent - so show them! 

Conversation Starters:

• How does [organization] make our community a better place?

• What's the toughest decision you've had to make in your department about [organization]?

Bonus Tip: While each department at your nonprofit organization may not be performing a public-facing activity, they each play a crucial role in achieving your mission. If you’re looking for additional ideas to elevate staff stories, check out a story each department can tell. 

5. Board Member Perspectives

Board members have deep institutional knowledge and insights into program creation, fundraising events, and organizational milestones. These are incredible stories to capture because they offer unique insights about the past that can be used for future reflections.

Conversation Starters:

• What first inspired you to join our board?

• What's the biggest transformation you've witnessed at [organization]?

6. Sponsorship & Corporate Partnership Stories

Nonprofit and for-profit partnerships create strong, lasting relationships. Showcasing successful collaborations highlights shared goals and achievements, and partners will appreciate their efforts being recognized.

Conversation Starters:

• How does [organization’s] mission align with your organization's priorities?

• How has your partnership with [organization] evolved over time?

Elevating Every Voice

Incorporating these six diverse nonprofit testimonials - program participants, volunteers, donors, staff, board members and corporate partners - into your storytelling efforts can transform how you convey your mission to the world. By prioritizing elevating every voice at your nonprofit, you will build trust, enhance transparency and create a community that will be inspired to give again and again.