Keep Telling the Same Story—Curiously

One story told seven ways builds trust, not repetition.

Hey there, fundraiser friend — how’s your end-of-year campaign going?

If you’re feeling the pressure to pull together more stories, more emails, and more “new ideas,” take a breath. You don’t need more. You just need to keep telling the same story—with curiosity.

The Short Version

A tiny story is enough to remind donors to give seven times.

You can (still) do that this year.

SVA can help in a quick, free chat—or we can be your team for hire next year.

Contact us here!

The Foundation: One-to-Many Fundraising

At SVA, we call the group messages you send—your emailed or mailed appeals—one-to-many fundraising. It’s the broad, foundational layer that makes one-to-one major gifts fundraising possible later.

That’s where the real joy and generosity flow from: strong community, shared stories, and donors who already feel connected because you’ve been talking to them all along.

So, how do you do one-to-many asks better than ever?

The Seven-Touch Rule (and Why It Works)

We’ve all heard it takes at least seven touches before someone truly hears your message.

In over 50 years of collective fundraising experience, we’ve seen it play out again and again: people need a lot of reminders to act on their intention to give.

That’s why we coach clients to plan a series—one to two letters and five to seven emails—to tell one story across multiple channels.

Instead of thinking of seven asks as a bunch of potentially annoying follow-ups, think of them as seven invitations to deepen one micro-story, offered in small, digestible bites for your busy community.

And here’s the kicker: it actually means less work and better results.

Start with a Tiny Story

Here’s one we love, paraphrased from a real advocate we’ve worked with (name changed):

“Sharing my story as an advocate let me meet others who’ve been through what I’ve been through—and reminded me I have power to change a system that isn’t working for many people.”

— Jaclyn

That’s it. Just two short phrases.

Your curiosity is what can turn that one quote into a seven-part, relational series of appeals.

How to Tell One Story Seven Ways

Use curiosity to “turn” the same story gently—each time revealing a new angle, emotion, or insight.

1.      Start with connection

Introduce Jaclyn and her realization that she wasn’t alone. Invite donors to make that possible for others.

2.      Lean into empathy

Reflect: “Many others we meet tell us the same thing—healing starts with being seen.” Invite donors to see your community through giving.

3.      Show the next step

“Now, Jaclyn’s advocacy helps inspire others to share their stories.” Invite donors to support that ripple effect.

4.      Name what’s broken

“Together, advocates like Jaclyn are speaking out about a system that leaves too many behind.” Invite donors to help change that system.

5.      Show the shift

“Their stories are shaping how local leaders think about change.” Invite donors to power that evolution.

6.      Celebrate collective impact

“Each voice added makes the movement stronger.” Invite donors to join the community of givers.

7.      Close the loop

“Your support keeps the circle of advocacy for change growing.” Offer a clear call to give by your campaign deadline.

That’s seven authentic, curiosity-driven ways to tell the same story—without forcing yourself to start from scratch.

Curiosity Is the Super Skill

If you’ve ever said, “I just don’t have enough stories!” — we get it.

But here’s your gentle reminder: thinking you don’t have enough to make a strong ask is a scarcity trap.

There’s no shortage of stories about homelessness, food insecurity, or environmental care—only a shortage of noticing.

Instead of asking your program staff or volunteers for “more stories,” try this:

“What has our mission taught you lately?”

“What was a cool part of your work on our mission this week?”

With consent, you can run with whatever they share. Because even a tidbit or two can power a whole year of one-to-many fundraising.

There’s Still Time to Do This

If you haven’t built your end-of-year appeal series yet—or you’re only planning to send one appeal—there’s still time!

Here’s your quick plan:

1.      Choose one short story (just a few sentences).

2.      Write seven variations—each revealing a new layer, emotion, or question.

3.      Let curiosity be your guide.

4.      Blend your letters and emails into one consistent rhythm (1–2 letters + 5–7 emails).

You’re not repeating yourself. You’re deepening the story and reminding donors their gifts matter.

If you’re worried about over-asking, add this proactive note to your signature:

We aim to send giving requests like this only if we haven’t seen your gift yet. If you’ve already made your gift or plan to, thank you! If you’d prefer to talk about your gift or adjust when and how you get reminders, just reply here. We appreciate knowing your preferences—your support means so much to our mission.

Anyone who replies to that note? They might just be ready for your major gifts portfolio.

You Can Do This Without Exhaustion

You can do end-of-year, one-to-many fundraising without burning out.

We’re always here for a quick talk or a free 15-minute power boost session—and yes, we read and reply to every response to our Community of Care emails, too. Are you signed up?

And if you’re wondering who’s going to help you make your fundraising happen—or make it more effective—next year, reach out.

We offer everything you’ve just read here (and more) as a done-for-you service. It’s like having your fundraising team in a box:

• perfect for transition moments,

• onboarding new leaders, or

• adding extra hands for your next big push.

Executive Fundraising packages start at $3,000 per month, with a 40% discount for BIPOC-led organizations.

Contact us to make a plan!