Helping You Inspire Others Through Your Connection to the Mission
At the Nonprofit Resource Hub, we believe every staff member and volunteer plays a vital role in spreading the mission. You don’t need to be in a leadership position or on the development team to be a powerful storyteller. Whether you’re running a program, helping at an event, or managing admin tasks, your experiences matter and can connect deeply with others.
This toolkit is designed to help you share your stories in a natural, confident way—stories that not only explain the mission but inspire support and fundraising. Whether you’re chatting with a neighbor, speaking at a local school, answering a donor’s question, or posting online, your story can make the mission come alive.
1. Your Personal “Why” Statement
Start by crafting your own “why”—a short statement that answers:
- Why do I work or volunteer here?
- What about the mission personally resonates with me?
- What moments have made me proud to be part of this organization?
Example:
“I started volunteering at [Nonprofit Name] because I wanted to give back to the community. But what’s kept me coming back is seeing how our food pantry helps parents who are trying to rebuild stability. It reminds me how close we all are to needing help, and how powerful it is to offer it.”
Prompt:
Write your “why” in 2–3 sentences. Say it out loud like you’re talking to a friend or someone you just met.
2. Quick Impact Stories You Can Share
One powerful, real story can leave a lasting impression. Try using this simple format:
- The Challenge: What need or issue was present?
- The Solution: What did your organization do?
- The Outcome: What changed for the person or community?
Example:
“A teen named Marcus joined our afterschool program struggling with anxiety and self-confidence. After a few months, he started leading group activities and even gave a speech at our fundraiser. That’s the kind of transformation that sticks with you.”
Pro Tip:
Ask your team or supervisor for fresh stories each month. Learn just one. That’s enough to move someone.
3. Story Sharing Moments in Everyday Life
Storytelling isn’t only for galas or grant proposals. Here are everyday opportunities to share your impact:
| Everyday Moment | Story Sharing Idea |
|---|---|
| Helping a new volunteer | Share your own “why” to welcome them and help them feel connected |
| Speaking at a school or group | Use a client story to explain why your organization matters |
| Social media posts | Share a moment from your day that illustrates your mission at work |
| Talking with vendors or partners | Help them understand how their support helps real people |
| Casual chats | Mention a meaningful recent moment at dinner, the gym, or in a rideshare |
Bonus Tip:
Add your role at the nonprofit to your email signature or LinkedIn profile. It opens the door for others to ask about it.
4. Sample Social Media or Email Blurbs
Social Post:
“Grateful to be part of [Nonprofit Name] where we [describe mission]. Just last week, I saw a young client walk out of our office with a job offer in hand. That’s the power of what we do, and why I love being part of it.”
Email Invite:
Hi [Friend’s Name],
I’m helping with an upcoming event at the nonprofit I work with, and I’d love for you to come. It’s a cause I care about deeply, and I think you’d enjoy learning about it. Want me to send you the details?
5. Tips for Confident Sharing
- Be yourself. People respond to authenticity.
- Focus on just one story or moment.
- Keep it short (a minute or two is enough).
- Smile, breathe, and pause. You’re connecting, not selling.
- Practice a few times. The more you do, the more natural it becomes.
6. Ways to Share Your Story: Mediums That Work
You don’t need a stage or a spotlight to share your story—just a little intention. Here are a few easy and effective ways to share what you believe in:
In-Person Conversations
- Chat with friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors
- Welcome new volunteers or staff by sharing your “why”
- Speak at local schools, clubs, community centers, or places of worship
Online & Social Media
- Post stories or updates on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or X
- Share behind-the-scenes moments or photos from events
- Use tags and hashtags to help your posts reach a wider audience
Email & Text
- Send a personal message inviting someone to get involved
- Share a quick story or moment that inspired you this week
- Include your nonprofit role in your email signature (e.g., “Proud volunteer at [Nonprofit Name]”)
Public Speaking & Events
- Present at networking events or staff meetings
- Offer to speak during panels, classes, or civic meetings
- Share client stories during fundraising events
Printed Materials & Media
- Contribute to newsletters or blog posts
- Provide quotes for impact reports or press releases
- Write postcards or handwritten notes during campaigns
No matter how you share it—online, in person, or in print—your story has the power to build connection, trust, and momentum. Start with your voice. That’s all it takes.