I’ve always thought that a good story not shared is a missed opportunity to inform people about the good work your parish or organization does. I remember the wonderful stories about heroes that my parents told me as a child. I passed those stories on to my children – I hope they’ll do the same with theirs.
Your organization – religious, community-based or social service – does good work. It helps people. That leaves you with stories to tell. I suggest you add sharing those stories to your year-end to-do list. Here are a few ways:
- Sharing stories about how donors helped you fulfill your mission is a given for your annual report. Donors want to know how their support enabled you to better fulfill your mission.
- Add a little life to the year-end tax letters you send by adding a story about donor impact. Those tax letters can serve more than one purpose and a powerful story can add some spice to what is typically viewed as a dull letter.
- Call volunteers and donors at year’s end to thank them for their support. You’ll likely end up leaving a message, but think of this as a 20-second uninterrupted opportunity to share your thanks – and a story. The executive director of a former client shared with me he tried to call five donors each day during December.
- Finally, select a few key parishioners, donors or volunteers and stop by their place of work with a personalized thank-you note that includes a story. Leave the card at the front desk. The recipient will wonder what you’re up to, and may call you back – providing you with an opportunity to say thank you and share another story.
I encourage you to contact me if you have any questions regarding best practices and the professional services of the Steier Group.
