Stories are humanity’s secret superpower—they connect us, move us, and even make us cry over a stranger’s triumph or a puppy’s soulful eyes. They simplify life’s chaos, turning cold, hard facts into warm, relatable moments that stick with us. Great stories aren’t just told—they’re felt. In marketing, they sell transformations, and in philanthropy they tug heartstrings. The key? Simple, real, meaningful, even with a sprinkle of humor—who doesn’t love a hero who trips over their cape? The best stories don’t just inform; they inspire, leaving your audience ready to act… and maybe even laugh through their tears.

About 56% of social media users who donate online said compelling storytelling makes them give most, according to Nonprofit Tech for Good. Stories were the number one motivation, while data wasn’t on the list.

Storytelling is your nonprofit’s most powerful marketing tool. But everyone else is using it, too. If you want to stand out from the crowd, you need storyselling—a strategic form of storytelling designed to motivate your donors and prospects to action.