Best Practices

Writing Compelling Campaign Stories

How to craft stories that connect with donors and inspire action

Why Stories Matter

Your campaign story is the heart of your fundraising effort. A good story creates emotional connection, builds trust, and motivates people to help. It's not just about what you need - it's about who you're helping and why it matters.

Key Elements of a Good Story

The People

Who is affected? Make them real to your readers - families, children, elders. Use specific details.

The Situation

What happened? Describe the disaster and its impact clearly and honestly.

The Need

What do they need right now? Be specific about how donations will help.

The Impact

How will donations make a difference? Paint a picture of the outcome.

Story Structure

Opening Hook (1-2 sentences)

Start with something that grabs attention and creates urgency

Example: “When Typhoon Yolanda hit our barangay, 500 families lost everything in a single night.”

The Situation (2-3 paragraphs)

Explain what happened, who is affected, and the current conditions

Describe the disaster, its impact on the community, and immediate effects on people's lives

What You're Doing (1-2 paragraphs)

Explain your relief efforts and how you're helping

Describe your organization, your plan, and what you're already doing

How They Can Help (1 paragraph)

Clear call to action - what you need and how to donate

Be specific: “We need 200 sacks of rice, 500 liters of clean water, and emergency shelter materials”

Writing Tips

  • ✓ Use simple, clear language - avoid jargon
  • ✓ Include specific details (numbers, names, locations)
  • ✓ Show, don't just tell - use descriptive language
  • ✓ Keep paragraphs short (3-4 sentences max)
  • ✓ Use active voice (“Families need shelter” not “Shelter is needed”)
  • ✓ Proofread for spelling and grammar
  • ✓ Ask someone to read it before publishing

What to Avoid

  • ✗ Overly dramatic or sensational language
  • ✗ Graphic or disturbing descriptions
  • ✗ Making promises you can't keep
  • ✗ Being vague about needs or plans
  • ✗ Negative or desperate tone
  • ✗ Too much technical detail
  • ✗ Walls of text without breaks

Example Campaign Story

Good Example:

[Hook] Last Tuesday's earthquake left 350 families in Barangay San Isidro without homes, food, or clean water.

[Situation] The 6.5 magnitude quake destroyed most houses in our community. Families are now sleeping in the barangay hall and makeshift tents. Children haven't had a proper meal in three days, and our water supply was contaminated by damaged pipes.

[Your Action] Our team has set up a relief center at the barangay hall where we're distributing emergency supplies. We've already provided temporary shelter to 100 families, but we need more resources to help everyone.

[Call to Action] We urgently need rice, canned goods, bottled water, blankets, and tarpaulins. Every donation helps a family get through this crisis. Please donate what you can today.

Next Steps

Learn how to set realistic goals that inspire confidence.

Setting Realistic Goals →