Tell Me A Story

A small nonprofit had to raise $3,000 for new office chairs.

It was the most "boring" appeal they'd ever written. They sent it with low expectations.

It funded in 24 hours.

Why? They didn't ask for chairs. They asked donors to give a domestic abuse survivor a dignified, comfortable place to sit while she met with her counselor for the first time.

The story wasn't about the furniture. It was about the person who would use it. It connected a tangible, simple item to a feeling of safety and respect. It proved that there are no boring fundraising campaigns. Only boring stories.

What's a "boring" item you've seen funded through great storytelling?

[posted on LinkedIn by Amanda Smith]