Masterful Storytelling

Getting noticed in a sea of nonprofit organizations can be challenging. With better stories, you can raise not only awareness…but more money. The right message stands out from the crowd, ignites excitement, and creates passion for your organization. The best way to do this is by telling better stories. In this one-hour workshop, you will learn how to tell impactful stories across the many fundraising and community awareness venues. From the media and donor communication, to staff, board members, legislatures, and the families you serve, heartfelt stories are what people remember the most. Attendees will learn:

• How to share your organization’s story using emotion and the power of one

• How to identify the hero of your story

• How to build your story using three key components: The set-up, Conflict, and Resolution

• How to use the story in an annual appeal, campaign case statement, newsletter, face-to-face meeting with a prospective donor, social media, and a two-minute storytelling video

• How to share the story with prospective donors, inspiring them to open their pocketbooks

Chris Keeshan, M.S.: Chris Keeshan is the Founder of CKA. Her 30 plus years of fundraising and coaching experience offers clients confidence in reaching their fundraising goals. Chris specializes in keen fundraising strategies, creative and bold approaches to get in-the-door with prospects, and unsurpassed prospect research that turns a cold call into a warm call.

When you meet Chris, ask her to tell you about getting a free ride scholarship to Lindenwood University, St. Charles, Missouri. The story personifies her personality—bold, creative, tenacious, and passionate. As an avid reader, Chris is always reading and recommending books and constantly researching a client’s next WILDCARD. When not indulging her passion in philanthropy, she can be found on the beach in Puerto Vallarta Mexico, or playing with her godchildren.

Sheri Cafer: Sheri is CKA’s Fundraising Strategist. Sheri is an innovative leader and manager with extensive experience motivating and directing teams to achieve organizational goals. She excels at inspiring teams to deliver results, as well as coaching and mentoring clients to improve performance. Through her years of volunteer experience, Sheri has been an integral part of fundraising teams for black-tie auctions, regional swim meets, and grassroots organizations.