Unveiling the Heart of Giving: The Profound Impact of Storytelling
Why do shared stories inspire generosity?
I came across an incredibly moving quote from one of our followers. They shared a video we posted on Facebook and added:
“You won't understand the joy in changing lives until you've experienced it. I am telling you, it's beautiful. I am in, and I will never go back.”
It has left me pondering two things. Why do people give? And why do they give on DonorSee? While the answer to the first question will be different for everyone, I know why they love DonorSee—storytelling.
Stories are a fundamental part of the human experience. It’s why we go to the theater, buy books, watch series on Netflix and subscribe to podcasts. We tell stories through art, music, dance. Even the breakfast cereal box I poured from this morning had a story on the back. But why are they so important to us?
Stories have the ability to make us feel and inspire us into action. Have you ever cried during a movie or laughed at a stand-up comedian's joke? That's because they have used the power of storytelling to engage you and make you feel something. And the beauty of storytelling is that it's versatile.
At DonorSee, we believe in the power of storytelling to create giving experiences worth repeating. Donors want to be involved. They want to experience the joy of their giving and celebrate with you.
When piecing a story together, ask yourself how you want the donor to feel. Do you want them to feel empathy? Do you want them to feel inspired to get involved? Look at the story that you are trying to tell and find the aspects you can draw on to elicit the emotional reaction you are hoping for.
Highlight the shared humanity between the donor and the person who needs support—where empathy grows, a desire to help is sure to follow. When a donor gets involved, thank them and show the impact their donation has had. Make the process transparent so the donor knows how valuable their kindness is and they will come back to help again!
Do you have a hive of stories but are struggling to see a compelling way to share them? Let us know so we can help!
