Show. Don't Tell.
Writing is the bridge to people’s hearts.
Imagine this: A supporter receives your latest email. Instead of reading “We’ve helped thousands of individuals this year,” they encounter Maria’s story—a mother reunited with her children after years apart, holding back tears as she steps into her new apartment.
They don’t just read your message; they feel it.
This is the power of “show, don’t tell”—a principle borrowed from the world’s greatest storytellers but universal across industries, from advertising to education to, yes, the nonprofit sector.
Your words have the power to:
Move hearts to action.
Build trust through authenticity.
Highlight the impact your audience makes possible.
Whether you’re writing donor emails, social posts, or grant applications, how you tell your story, and the stories of those who are impacted by your organization, matters.
Vivid, sensory-rich details make your mission more than a statement—they make it unforgettable.
In the latest episode, we discuss “Stein on Writing” by Sol Stein. The book is a masterclass on effective communication and storytelling, offering insights that nonprofits can leverage to improve their messaging.
Sol Stein wrote,
“Readers don’t want to be told what to think or feel—they want to experience it for themselves.”
We believe storytelling is at the core of every successful nonprofit. It is what inspires people to join your cause. That’s why it’s not just about your programs or numbers. It’s about creating a connection—a bridge between the incredible work you do and the people who want to support it.
Need help crafting stories that show your impact? We’re here to help you bring your mission to life.
Let’s “show” your story together.
