At some point, your nonprofit will need to make a case for why you exist, what you do, and how you do it. This is typically done through a case statement. But, what is a case statement and when do you need it? This article will help you understand the purpose of a case statement, how to write a great one, and provide examples for inspiration.
What Is a Case Statement?
A nonprofit case statement is used to make a compelling argument for why your nonprofit exists, what you do, and how you do it. It should be clear, concise, and persuasive. The case statement should be used to guide all of your communications, including website content, fundraising appeals, grant proposals, and more.
When Do You Need a Case Statement?
You will need a case statement when you are making a case for why your nonprofit exists, what you do, or how you do it. For example, you might use a case statement when:
– Asking for donations
– Applying for grants
– Writing website content
– Describing your nonprofit to others
Who is Your Target Audience?
Your target audience is anyone who needs or wants to know about your nonprofit, including donors, funders, volunteers, board members, and the general public. When writing your case statement, keep your target audience in mind and make sure that the language you use is appropriate for them.
How to Write a Great Case Statement
A great case statement will be clear, concise, and persuasive. Here are some tips for writing a great case statement:
– Have an emotional opening: Start with an emotional story that will make your audience care about your nonprofit.
– Explain the purpose of the organization: Make it clear what your nonprofit does and why it is important.
-State your mission and values: Include your nonprofit’s mission statement and values.
– Describe your programs and services: Include a brief description of your programs and services.
-Talk about the outcomes of those programs: What impact have your programs had on the people you serve?
-Make a case for why you need support: Explain what your nonprofit needs in order to continue doing its work.
-Include a call-to-action: Tell your audience what you want them to do, such as donate money or volunteer their time.
– Ask for a specific amount of money: Be specific about how much money you need and the need it will address.
– Offer to provide more information: Include your contact information and let people know that you are eager to answer any questions they might have.
Examples of Stand-Out Case Statements
Now that you know what a case statement is and how to write one, here are some examples of stand-out case statements to inspire you.
– Autism Society: The Autism Society’s case statement starts with a powerful story about a mother whose son has autism. It then explains the purpose of the organization and its programs. The statement ends with a call-to-action, asking for donations to help support the Autism Society.
– National Breast Cancer Foundation: The National Breast Cancer Foundation offers a case statement that begins with a quote from a breast cancer survivor. It then describes the organization’s mission and programs. The statement ends with an appeal for donations, asking people to help fund the fight against breast cancer.
– Make-A-Wish Foundation: The Make-A-Wish Foundation offers a case statement that starts with a quote from a child who benefitted from the organization’s work. It then goes on to explain the purpose of the organization and its programs. The statement ends with a call to action, asking people to donate money or time to help make wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses.
By following these tips and using these examples as inspiration, you can write a great case statement for your nonprofit that will convince people to support your cause.