Tell Me a Story

the power of storytelling

Sr. Kathleen Lunsmann, IHM, CFREPresident, SOAR!

Bonnie O’Neill Meyer, CFREMeyer Partners, LLC

Tell me a story

1 Why stories?

2 What makes a great story?

3 Real life stories & winning appeals

4 Practical tips

Top 5 Reasons Why …

Why stories?

Reason #5

Stories are how we get to know one another.

Why Stories?

Reason #4

People remember stories.

Why Stories?

Reason #3

Stories convey wisdom … insights.

Why Stories?

Reason #2

Stories build brand.

Why stories?

5. Stories are how we get to know one another.4. People remember stories.3. Stories convey wisdom … insights.2. Stories build brand.1. Stories lead people to act.

Made to Stick.

• A credible idea makes people believe.• An emotional idea makes people care.• The right stories make people act.

• Chip Heath and Dan Heath, Made to Stick

Nonprofit Storytelling

• Bring the impact of your mission, vision and programs to life.

Tell me a story

What makes a great story?• Name• Details• Quotes• Actions that paint a picture• Strong lead• Sequence of narrative creates curiosity• Conversational language• Concrete nouns• Clarity• Relevance to core values

Our Stories

Sister Peg

Sister Peg

Regina Laudis

Regina Laudis

Regina Laudis

Cenacle Sisters

Cenacle Sisters

Cenacle Sisters

Cenacle Sisters

Cenacle Sisters

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving

Saving William

Five Practical Tips

Collect (find) stories rich with detail.

Own the story: adapt for spokesperson.

Action: active verbs paint the picture.

Color: use real quotes from real people.

Hook.

Bonus How-to’s

• Write fast• Edit slow• Read your story out loud

Philanthropy & Storytelling

• Circulate stories with staff.• Make storytelling a part of your culture of

philanthropy.

The end.