Bright Idea: Use Video Testimonials In Appeals

Who They Are

Pilgrim Pines Camp and Retreat Center is a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to providing fantastic programs for campers of all ages.

What They Did

Pilgrim Pines held a phonathon combining text fundraising and video testimonials from those who have benefited from the camp to create a successful fundraiser.

Their camp was negatively impacted by COVID-19, so this campaign asked their donors to remember who donations benefit. They collected videos from several beneficiaries of the Pilgrim Pines camp and embedded them on their donation page.

Donors considering making a gift to the campaign could hear directly from campers and retreat attendees about how much Pilgrim Pines means to them and how donations help. One such video appears below.

The video testimonials worked. Their phonathon raised more than $150,000!

What You Can Do

Ask your beneficiaries to record a quick video talking about how your nonprofit has changed their lives. In the video, they should ask donors to support your organization so that people like them can continue to benefit from the services you provide.

Share these videos with your donors during your fundraising campaigns. After all, the best way to provide evidence of how donations helped is for donors to hear it directly from those you serve.

These videos don’t have to look perfect. Pilgrim Pines’ beneficiaries mostly shot their videos on their phones and webcams. The message was the most important part of the video. So long as beneficiaries speak from the heart, their message will reach your donors.