How do I write a story for my fundraiser?

A good fundraiser story is short, personal and concrete: why it matters to you, what you do, what gifts mean, what you promise.

A good story for your fundraiser is short, personal and concrete: it says why the cause matters to you, what you will do, what gifts mean in practice and how people can help. Write it like a conversation with one person you know, not like a press release. Here is how to build it step by step.

Start with five short sentences

JustGiving advises coming up with five punchy sentences before you start writing. That forces you to the core. Keep your story concise and split it into sections so it reads easily on a phone.

The five parts of a strong story

A strong story has five parts: why you, what you are doing, what gifts mean, images and what you promise.

Why you. Explain why this charity matters to you. One personal sentence does more than three general ones.
What you are doing. Describe your activity or challenge, and be honest if it is scary or hard.
What gifts mean. Make it concrete: what can a given amount make possible? Only use examples you can back up, for instance from the charity itself.
Images. Add a photo in which you or your challenge is recognisable, not a logo.
What you promise. Say you will keep supporters informed with updates and thank everyone.

An example of the structure

Last year my sister spent a week in hospital. The nurses were incredibly kind. On 14 March I am running 10 km to give something back. Every gift goes to the children's ward. Will you follow along? I will post an update every week.

This example is invented, but it shows the structure: who, why, what, when and what you promise. Replace it with your own words.

Make readers part of the story

JustGiving suggests building in milestones, for example at 20%, 50% and 100% of your goal, with a small reward or action at each step. A milestone gives you a fresh reason to share again. Do not forget the ask: end with one clear request, such as 'Give 10 euros or share this page'.

Writing mistakes to avoid

Too long or too vague: readers drop off if the point is missing.
Only figures and jargon: tell them about people.
No photo, or just a logo.
Photos or stories of other people without their consent, especially children.
Promises you cannot keep.

In WeGlow

In WeGlow's editor, Glowie can rewrite your story in three tones: personal, professional or urgent. With 'Keep mine' or 'Use this version' you choose; your original stays until you confirm. You can also add photos, set a target and post updates on your page later.

Frequently asked questions

How long should the story be?

Short enough to read in one go on a phone. JustGiving advises keeping the story concise and splitting it into sections. Start with five punchy sentences and build them out; a few short sections are then enough.

Should I write emotionally?

Not overly. Real, specific words convince more than heavy language. One personal sentence about why the charity matters to you does more than three general ones, and it is better to tell the story of people than to offer only figures and jargon.

Can I use AI?

Yes, as help. Always read the result and make sure it still sounds like you. In WeGlow, Glowie can rewrite your story in a personal, professional or urgent tone; your original stays until you confirm.

How do I start if I do not know what to write?

First come up with five punchy sentences, as JustGiving advises. Use them to answer why this charity matters to you, what you will do, what the gifts mean and what you promise. Then build those sentences out into short sections.

Sources

Checked on 2 October 2026.

JustGiving: structure in sections, five punchy sentences, what to include, photos, milestones at 20/50/100% and keeping donors updated