We’ve often discussed the need to tell the stories behind your cause.  We know how effective the tale of an individual can be when donors are considering whether or not to take action.

One of the best tools you can use to tell a story is the video.  It puts a human face to the tale and allows the person to speak directly to the viewer.

You have probably seen some of the videos throughout social media, especially on Facebook and Tumblr, which have gone viral simply because the story they hold really touches us.  We can’t help but be moved and want to help the person we’ve just shared some time with.

The power of the video will work for your not for profit, and if the story is strong enough, your camera skills won’t be a factor. Yes, there goes that excuse.

One example of a powerful video lies in the Invisible People campaign.

“Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on Invisible People and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.”

Watch the story of Lisa and Lexus, a homeless mother and child.  Watch Brion, who is homeless after his mother kicked him out for not giving her money for drugs.

When you’ve watched the videos you will understand how powerful they can be.  The stories are simple and honest, and there is no fancy editing.  The focus is on the person and their story.  They are the people who will encourage viewers to donate and they don’t even ask for money.

What are the stories behind your cause?  How could you tell them through video?