Weaving Storytelling Through Your Fundraising Events

Wed, Jan 21st, 2026 7:00 PM (UTC)
This session is all about helping you turn your fundraising events into powerful storytelling platforms

Too many nonprofits pour time and money into events that leave guests mildly entertained—but not moved to become long-term supporters. If you're tired of seeing one-time gifts that don’t grow into deeper giving, it's time to rethink how your events communicate your mission.

We'll talk about how to build events that create emotional resonance and long-term donor connection. From social media teasers and keystone videos to program design and CEO coaching, you'll learn how to layer storytelling throughout your entire event experience—from first invite to final thank you.

These aren't lofty ideas. They're practical strategies that raise more money, grow donor loyalty, and make your team proud of what you’ve built.

By the end of this session, you'll be able to:

  • Plan your event with narrative flow that builds engagement and drives giving.
  • Design mission-driven program elements that stir hearts and open checkbooks.
  • Use table tents, testimonials, and short-form content to spotlight impact stories.
  • Recruit and coach ambassadors who fill your room and prime it for generosity.
  • Craft a keystone video that’s emotionally grounded and donor-ready.
  • Guide your CEO (or other speakers) to cast a clear, compelling vision that leads to real revenue.
  • Align your marketing and follow-up so stories continue long after the event ends.
Jessica Cloud

Real Deal Fundraising, led by founder, Jessica Cloud, CFRE, offers hands-on consulting services with a sharp focus on training, strategy, and practical execution. Her specialty is working directly with boards, nonprofit leaders, and development professionals to build confidence and sharpen fundraising skills through dynamic, real-world training. She also partners with organizations to develop clear, actionable fundraising plans that are grounded in strategy and built for results. Whether you need help energizing your board, mapping out a campaign, or designing a donor engagement plan that actually gets implemented, Jessica brings clarity, candor, and over 20 years of experience to every project.

Laurie Hochman

Laurie Hochman has a passion for helping groups exceed their fundraising goals. After using Auctria for many auction fundraisers, she joined the team to help others boost their auction fundraising for many wonderful causes. Auctria has been used for auctions and events raising over one billion dollars.

“The beauty in what is done with the money raised with Auctria is what motivates me every day to help auction teams succeed. Hope all your bids soar!”