Blog

The Nook

The place to improve your storytelling and communications campaigns and to be subjected to bad humor.

Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

Persuasion in Fundraising Appeals

Ever wondered why some nonprofits seem to crush their fundraising goals and others don’t? Why do some speakers get applause and tears when they make their giving appeal, while others get polite claps? Aristotle’s three modes of persuasion might be the culprit. Learn to use them to create high-powered fundraising appeals.

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

CanvasRebel: Meet Alexis Bennett

Sprig founder Alexis Bennett shares how she transitioned from a community-focused perfectionist to a trusted marketing and communications partner to nonprofits, and some lessons she learned along the way.

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

The Art and Science of Nonprofit Storytelling

Storytelling is more than just a way to share information—it's an art and a science that has the power to inspire, engage, and motivate people to take action. For nonprofit leaders, effective storytelling is a crucial skill that can turn an ordinary fundraising campaign into a compelling call to action.

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

Blog Basics for Effective Nonprofit Storytelling

Writing and managing blog posts isn’t for everyone, but by understanding a few nonprofit blog basics and best practices, even the busiest nonprofit employees can feel confident in their abilities. Follow along for my tips for drafting, formatting, reviewing, and publishing nonprofit blogs. 

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

How to Turn Nonprofit Board Members Into Your Best Mission Ambassadors

As a nonprofit leader, you have more in common with your board of directors than you think. You all share a passion for your community and a desire to make a difference in the lives of the people, animals, or environments you serve.

But just like all new volunteers need to know how to communicate and carry out your services, so does your board. After all, board members aren’t shareholders, but they’re not — or shouldn’t be — silent, just-attend-the-meetings partners either.

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

Nonprofit Organizations Need More Small, Intimate Events

Small, intimate events can be overlooked as part of a nonprofit organization’s fundraising strategy. Outreach event can be a great venue to share your mission’s story, connect with your community and target audience, build relationships, and raise funds.

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Alexis Bennett Alexis Bennett

Managing Your Fundraising Campaign Message to Avoid Restricted Funds

The reality is, that donor restrictions will be something nonprofits will always navigate. But that doesn’t mean we won’t continue to advocate for using a simple message structure that provides clarity and converts donors. Just be mindful to use language around your story to safeguard your nonprofit and to promote goodwill and integrity. 

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