Nonprofit Action Training: The Power of Why
Erica Coyle, Founder of Elevation Strategies and host of “The Power of Why: Sharing Stories that Move Donors to Give” Nonprofit Action Training on March 26.
Conveying your organization’s impact helps donors and your community connect with the work that you do. But did you know that stories–the “why” and “how” of our work–are remembered up to twenty-two times more than just the facts? That means, by showcasing the right stories, your nonprofit will stand out and be remembered. The question, then, is how do we tell our stories in a way that both lifts up the voices of those we serve and helps donors remember your work when it’s time to give?
Join us for a workshop titled The Power of Why: Sharing Stories that Move Donors to Give, presented by Erica Coyle, founder of Elevation Strategies, a nonprofit consulting firm that helps nonprofit and mission-driven organizations grow with purpose, clarity, and trust. In this two-hour workshop we will cover:
How to ethically gather and share your organization’s stories
Storytelling mediums (hint: a picture is worth a thousand words!)
How to use your organization’s stories as a fundraising tool for Give a Hoot
Erica is a former executive director in the nonprofit field and now the founder and principal at Elevation Strategies. Erica’s philosophy is that organizations are most efficient, effective in fundraising, and resilient when they intentionally center the voices of those they serve. She brings over fifteen years of fundraising and leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and loves working with organizations that are ready to take their next courageous leap forward.
The First in a Series to Empower Nonprofits
This workshop is the first in a series of three sessions focused on helping Park County nonprofits prepare for the Give A Hoot community giving challenge in July. All led by Erica, these sessions will equip you to put your organization's best stories forward, support your board in the Give A Hoot fundraising effort, and leverage the contacts made through Give A Hoot into long-term donors and advocates.
Meet Your Presenter: Erica Coyle
Based in Bozeman, Montana, Erica started her nonprofit career in fundraising, working for organizations whose missions ranged from serving underserved youth to a Smithsonian Affiliate museum. She then took her development experience to Haven—one of the state’s leading domestic violence nonprofits—where she guided the organization through a period of remarkable expansion and innovation as its Executive Director.
During her twelve-year tenure at Haven, Erica led initiatives that doubled the number of programs offered, significantly enhancing the organization’s capacity to serve the community. Under her leadership, Haven increased its capacity to meet a 100% increase in the number of survivors served—an indicator of both community need and the organization's growing reach and effectiveness.
Erica’s commitment to equity and systemic change extended well beyond brick and mortar. Aware of the fact that an organization is only as strong as its team, she worked alongside her board and leadership team to create a supportive and inclusive culture centered around equitable practices.
With Elevation Strategies, Erica is ready to help your organization rise to its next chapter—boldly, compassionately, and with purpose.
Nonprofit Action Training:
The Power of Why: Sharing Stories that Move Donors to Give
When: Thursday, March 26, 2026, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Where: PCCF Offices, 104 South Main Street, Livingston, MT
Light snacks and beverages will be served.
Nonprofit Action provides professional development for the staff and board members of Park County’s nonprofits — where nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers come to learn together, support each other, and create the strong, effective nonprofit sector we deserve.
Nonprofit Action is our investment in the organizations that serve Park County’s residents. By supporting the excellence of Park County’s nonprofits, we ensure they maximize their ability to help people thrive and that our donors’ investments are well-placed. Learn more about Nonprofit Action here.
Thank you to our Nonprofit Action Program sponsors M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust and Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.