Case Study: Connecticut Association of Nonprofits

Seizing an opportunity to offer a unique service to members, the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits found a way to leverage the compelling power of video storytelling to create a popular program, now in its second year, that helps members tell their stories.

Mark Berardi, Director of Membership, Training and Development Services, at CT Nonprofits, reports: “In 2010, we partnered with a professional videographer who offered to help our members, at a deep discount, film short professional videos that might otherwise cost several thousands of dollars. We transformed our conference room into a studio for two days. Members were able to create compelling videos. Some chose to design a video for an upcoming fundraising event, others for use on their websites. The videos really help bring their missions to life.”

Here’s an example of one of the videos created. This program was so successful in 2010, that CT Nonprofits planned two more video studio days for 2011. Members also gave CT Nonprofits permission to use their videos! Members love this program and it’s a way for CT Nonprofits to shine, delivering real value with a unique membership benefit.

Thanks to YouTube and the Internet, your members can easily share compelling stories to capture the loyalty of donors, recruit board members, and even demonstrate outcomes. Here are some tips:

• Purchase 2-for-1 Flip Video Cameras from the Flip Spotlight Program or Techsoup

• Join YouTube’s Free Nonprofit Program

• Learn how to create better videos with See3Communications " Guide to Online Video"

• Blog Post: Nonprofit Tech 2.0: How to Launch a Broadcast "TV" Channel for your Nonprofit