5 Tips to Succeed in your Online Fundraiser

Fundraising is a tough task to stay on focus. But, it doesn't have to be impossible. Most of the non-profits that I surveyed, in recent times, have told me that out of all necessary elements, like awareness, volunteers, memberships, and money, they all stated that funding was a big priority. Without it, they wouldn't be able to do what they do best, restoring the broken in our community.

According to the IRS in 2012, 72% of donations came from individual donors. 21% came from grants, and businesses. With the rise of social media networks, organizations are hopping on the train of peer-to-peer fundraising. With the research provided and the success stories heard from Causevox, Charity Waters, and Craigslist Foundation, I came up with 5 quick tips to help your fundraising become another success story.

1. Plan your online fundraising event! This is crucial. You need to have a beginning, middle and end to your fundraising strategy. Most fundraisers start BIG and end BIG. But it is throughout the middle where it lags like crazy and people take their time in giving. So, you also need to know how to stay focused during that time period. Know the length of time the fundraising will last. Plan your online event to take place with another, live event where you have the platform to speak to many people about your fundraiser. The Nonprofit Tech For Good is great place to go and get organized with awesome ideas.

The Projest SOS team: They are really great at planning and organizing. 

2. Create a "story" video for your fundraising event. The power of visual aid will help increase donations to about 45%. People's brain can process visual about 60,000 times faster than simple text. So, simply including a lot of words and no visual substance, would be a loss for you. Either hire an outsource company to do it, or do it yourself. Make sure the audio is in good quality. Also, take your time finding a compelling story to share in your video. Capture more stories throughout your fundraising event. Simply use your smartphone. Need help for capturing great stories? Go to our website (www.namesakepictures.com), google Gary Vaynerchuk, and/or Stillmotionblog.com. Learn to tell a great engaging testimony by going to this blog article: http://namesakesblog.blogspot.com/2014/01/5-ways-to-improve-your-non-profits.html

3. Make the determination to use viewbix.com as you use email to send your fundraising page. Viewbix is an excellent tool that helps embed your video directly into your email to allow the viewers to click and watch without getting directed anywhere else. Its click-through-rate is over 400%. Studies show that for every click made to get to the donate button, you will lose 10% of donors. What Viewbix also does is that it lets you add a "DONATE" button right under the video. Make sure you make the color of the button red. It will outperform any other color by 21%.

ViewBix is a really great tool. Your logo can go on the top left side. Easy Call-To-Action on the bottom.

4. Make your donors feel like they belong in an exclusive community. By that, I mean draw them emotionally to your cause. Win them as evangelists to share the news about your organization. Encourage them to set their own fundraising page, create their own video, and get creative to help partake in your organization's financial goal. Charity Water did a phenomenal job using people's birthday as a day to help them generate more funding. Thank them publicly on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, etc. Offer them rewards for every time they donate a certain amount of money. Treat them like gold, because they are partnering up with you.

Charity Water is one nonprofit that gets fundraising!

5. Make the goal, the objective and rewards as tangible as possible for your donors. When you do, you will be able to see great results. Again, help them process the image much faster than reading the text. Pages with images increases engagement to about 180% more than those without images. For your goal, you can say "$100 will help 2 children get fed in a month". Make your "story" video show the objective. For your reward, take pictures and place them on your page for people to see or get an idea.

Lastly, I will not make this a 6th tip, because it may not apply to every non-profit. But, Google does have a program for non-profits, where you can get a grant for up to $10,000 of advertisement on their search engine. You have to apply to get it, however. That money can go into marketing your online fundraising event. 

I hope this was a lot of help for you. If you need a professional video producer and/or help with your online fundraising for your non-profit, call us for a free consultation. Visit us @ www.namesakepictures.com. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to support the work that we do: https://www.youtube.com/user/namesakepictures. 

Let us help you bring the message of your heart to life! Have a blessed day.

Avoid These Mistakes When Creating Powerful Stories for Your Organization

I have been creating stories for many non-profit organizations for almost 6 years. I have gone through plenty of trial and error. If there are any tips that I can provide to help you avoid some of the headaches I had to face, then reading this post will surely do you good.

Our Justice Coalition 2014 video was one of our toughest challenge to write a script for. Every year, I feel like there are so many hurdles to go through, because of the nature of this organization. The Justice Coalition is an organization helping innocent victims of violent crimes. Often , we interview victims, whose loved ones were either murdered or violated. But, in the end, we always come out champions! Nevertheless, I will go through some of the mistakes I made and how we were able to find the solution, so that you can easily avoid them when creating your own amazing stories.

Mistake #1:

BE AWARE of your customer's competition. I have been making video for the Justice Coalition (JC) for almost 4 years. Part of the many things they do in Jacksonville, FL is to provide Victims' Advocacy in the courtrooms. The organization was started by a local BBQ restaurant owner about 20 years ago, after he and his staff were robbed at gun point 7 times. Because this man took a stand against crime and started the organization, I was convinced that it was the only victims' advocate agency in town, but that wasn't the case. Others began to spring up through out the years that are state and individually funded. The question for me now remains, "Why should a donor contribute to the Justice Coalition as opposed to the other agencies?" Here's the answer: While the other agencies provide an 8-5 service, the Justice Coalition works around the clock. So, making sure that we pointed the viewers to services that the Justice Coalition offered, other than what transpires in the courtroom, was highly needed.

SOLUTION to #1:

One of the ways to help the viewer see how the Justice Coalition team gets involved outside of the courtroom with their client was to re-enact a scene where Ann Dugger, Execute Director of the organization, is at a press conference offering a cash reward to find the murderer of her client's wife (based on a fictional story). That scene played a very powerful visual. Not only do we show the JC team along the side of the victim before they ever step foot in the courtroom, but we see the law enforcement agents endorsing the organization by standing along Ann's side.

Mistake #2:

NEVER EVER assume that you are only working with one individual in the organization. Sometimes, you need a larger team to get the creative juices flowing. When I started doing videos for the Justice Coalition, I would only interact with Ann Dugger, because I knew that she was the visionary in the organization. But, as time went by, I got to meet the rest of her staff team and learn more about what they knew regarding their organization/ donors/ clients.

SOLUTION #2:

Meeting the rest of the team got me to learn more about Rebecca Dugger, director of business development. When she joined the creative team, I was clearly able to see the different approach she brought to the table. While Ann Dugger, a sweetheart of a woman, brought the compassion to the story through the testimonies of the victims, Rebecca brought the sensitivity of the major donors, who are comprised of men and women in the political and governmental realm. Our last two videos had the presence of law enforcements, senators, and state attorneys to help enhance the credibility of the organization. Rebecca knew that even though it is great to see the testimonies of the victims, the video also needed to carry the support of highly esteemed influencers of the city, who can look into the camera and agree about the impact the Justice Coalition is making.

Mistake #3:

ALWAYS go into details with your customer concerning the script. This is the area, where I fell the shortest in. When I started Name Sake Pictures, organizations would simply hire me to tell their story at a very low cost. But as my rates increase, so does the responsibility and accountability to make sure that I stay on track with the story. That is just perfectly fine with me! My team and I love a good challenge. So, making the vision clear to my customers is now critical. At one point, it wasn't. But now, it is. Because I let this transition slip under me, I ended up re-writing the script 4 times.

Solution #3:

The solution to this mistake really goes back to the first two. Because I wasn't aware that there were other agencies in town similar to the Justice Coalition, I needed to include a scene, like the "press conference", to show the viewers of the other areas that the Justice Coalition helps with. Although I completely agree that we should include stories of powerful testimonies, I had to realize that having endorsements from strong Jacksonville leaders is just as crucial for these types of videos. Having a staff member, like Rebecca, can help you work through the details and into a compelling story.

Life is a learning curve of experience. For the most part, it is trial and error. But, if I can facilitate that trial in your life, man, would that make my day! :) So, if you like what you read, like my company on www.facebook.com/namesakepictures, and share this valuable information in social media group! Thanks again for reading.

7 crafty ways to reduce the cost of your video

Let me start off by saying that most of our customers are recurring customers. They also consist of non-profit organizations. Every year, they hire us to make videos that target the heart of the organization and can deliver a good call-to-action at the end. This shouldn’t be any different for small companies that want the same results, more money.

So here we go!

7 things to help keep your video cost low:

1.) Help with the script. Content is important. Both you and your video producer need to be on the same page when it comes to the message. Tell him/her your vision and write down some of the narration. Keep in mind of the story structure: beginning, middle, and end.

2.) Keep the filming to one location ONLY. Yes, I capitalized the word ‘only’. This will help reduce drive and set up time.

3.) Keep your interviews to a max of two people. I make exceptions to the rule for my long-term customers…because I value them tremendously. We do not take a long time filming, and it lowers the risk of having untrained people in front of the camera for too long.

4.) Offer someone in your team, with a great voice, to do the voice over. I often choose the one with the most passion, because the emotion is projected better in the recording. This will prevent you from hiring a professional voice person.

5.) Get a 2-min video versus anything longer. This will cut down on edit time drastically.

6.) Recycle previously used music. This will prevent your editor from searching for new ones and will reduce the purchase of one.

7.) Provide your editor with pre-recorded, visual content, for b-roll and all. This may be tricky, because they may not match your video’s resolution or aspect ratio. Perhaps, photos would work best. I have to be frank in saying that we don’t do that at Name Sake, because we prefer to keep the same style of filming and the same video configurations. Though, we certainly welcome pictures.

There you have it. These tips will help you save hundreds of dollars. If no other production company is willing to come down on their rates using these, then contact us. Videos are fun to make. The stories you can tell are endless. Whatever content you decide to work on, get it done! Plan ahead to measure the results you are wanting your video to do for you.

Visit us online: www.namesakepictures.com and contact us for a FREE consultation.

5 Ways to Improve Your Non-Profit's Video Interviews

It is not always easy interviewing people, who may not be used to the cameras. Let's be honest, not every person we interviewed were eloquent in speech or have the 'celebrity' look. What they do have is the heart for the organization they are advocating. So, here's the question. What happens when you don't have the 'status quo' person to interview?  With the following steps, you should be able to get the best interview conversation from any person you interview.

These are the steps:

1.) Have a phone interview, before you do the filming. This helps break the ice between you and your interviewee. He or she will become used to your voice that leads to confidence in your directing. You will also be able to get more out of the phone conversation, because in their comfort, they may say something that can help add to the appeal of the story. This pre-interview will help you plan to get the perfect story. That way, you can navigate throughout the interview, by asking precisely for what you want, and not rabbit trail so much.

2.) Set the mood by selecting a place to film without much interference. Know what works for your interviewees. Set up the interview in places that would not require much of their attention, from their family or staff members. Choosing the correct location can help remove any tension. The camera easily picks up on stressful emotions. Most of our interviews take place in either their homes or place where they received the help. As long as these locations do not take away from the content of your story, it will do no harm.

3.) Make them feel confident throughout the shoot. Kindly, ask them what is their best side to take pictures. Yes, this may sound weird, but you do not want to make them feel subconscious about their look throughout the shoot. Also, let them speak from their heart and do not script everything out for them. Use the phone interview to ask them questions about what you want to include in the video.

4.) Encourage them. Let them be aware of how good they are doing, despite of the little details. They are taking time away from their busy lives to pay you their undivided attention. In other words, encourage them because you are grateful for them. Sometimes, it takes explaining the bigger vision to get them to see beyond their self-esteem. The interview is not about them, and it is not about your organization, either. It is way bigger. It is about rescuing people from broken situations, and changing an entire community for the better. 

5.) Ask the heartfelt questions. "How did it feel?" questions are always good to ask. Get them to explain the transformation that took place from before their experience with your organization to what happened after. Include intro and outro sound bites. Offer a small glimpse of the happy-ending-to-come at the beginning of your video. That way, it leaves people curious, looking forward to the rest of the journey. In the outro, use words that would encourage donors to give, like "This is why I'm so thankful for (your organization's name here), because they did this…." (More to come on actual content.)

This may add a little more time in post-production, but think about the end result. You got hired to create a video that has the right message to increase the possibilities of giving to the organization. Until next time, friends. Have a blessed and happy week. Don't forget to share this information. Like us on Facebook.

Grown Men Do Cry...

 It was 94 degrees on a Thursday afternoon, with no AC in my vehicle, as I was driving to Baker County, an hour away from home sweet home. I would be departing for 4 days, which included Father's Day weekend. The reason: to visit a bunch of inmates at the Baker Correctional Institution with the men from the Kairos Prison Ministry.

In all honesty, I had my share of doubts volunteering for this prison ministry. For once, when I attended the training, I realized that I was the youngest in my team. Most of them were gray-haired retirees. Being 33 would make that a compliment. But, not used to it. I even begged my friends to come and join. Knowing the Lord wanted me there, I just kept showing up.

So, as I kept driving on I-10 West, I really didn't know what to expect. I got to my hotel and into the front desk, where I rang the bell.

“Hold on a minute. I'm working on something here.” said a raspy voice.

“Sure,” I replied.

This tall woman appeared, with a serious look. “What do you need?”

“I need my room, please. Name is Mauricio Belgrano with the Kairos Prison team.”

“Oh. That's right.” She handed me a sheet. “Sign here for me.” I noticed another name under the same room number.

“I get to room with...John.”

“Yes. Need his key too?”

“No. I don't even know the man.” She gave me the concerned look. I continued with, “Well, if this man turns out to be a serial killer, then at least I'll be meeting Jesus this weekend.”

I made her smile. She gave me my key and I left to my room. The place was no Ritz Carlton or King David's Citadel in Jerusalem, where I'd stayed at before for business purposes. The bathroom smelled like mold. I kept smelling myself after showering in the bathroom, just to make sure it wasn't me. At least, the bed was quite cozy.

I received a phone call from the person, who was supposed to take me to the prison. He was running late, and couldn't take me there anymore. Great, I just took a cool shower! I have to get back into the mobile sauna, again. I was prepared with directions in case something like this happened.

When I got there, things just weren't going according to plan. The name tags weren't made. The leader didn't show up on time. They seemed to be under a lot of stress. I understood the pressure of running a ministry with people “volunteering”. I led one, myself. So, I offered to help with the name tags to ease their burden.

Things moved slowly through out the rest of the day until we met with the inmates. The Kairos men and I formed two lines, facing each other to welcome the inmates, as they entered the chapel with enthusiasm. That's right! Enthusiasm. They weren't begrudging, serious, bored, nor angry. They were...happy. They walked in peacefully, acting like...well, brothers in the Lord. They shook my hand and welcomed me with a hug. Then, we were divided into our table teams. There I was...sitting in front of 6 inmates: Willie (Will-I-Am), Rex (T-Rex), David (Cookie Monster), Ryan Word, Shelton, and Russell.

We put in about a 12-hr shift. By the time we got done, some of us went to eat at Ralph Klein's house, a rustic home found in the middle of the woods of Glenn St. Mary, where bears stroll around. Ralph was a 60+ year-old man, very jolly. He reminded me of a short, Santa Claus. The food was amazing! And, I got to know the men better. They were a funny mix. Sitting around the large, country-style table, I looked at their hairy ears, big noses, and balding heads. The whole scene reminded me of The Hobbit movie. We didn't get to our rooms until ten and I didn't get to bed to about midnight. The longest hours I slept one day was 6. My energy level was not the best, but I kept pressing forward.

We spent most of the time learning from each of the table leaders. My table leader was a very loud, yet kind-heart man, named Jim Corbett. You can assume that he's been in the military by his assertive attitude and firmness in leading the pack. He was quite encouraging. He told me how I was very good at engaging conversation with the boys, and making them feel comfortable. With all the crazy dancing during worship, mocking the old Bishop, who reminded us of the old man in Pixar's “Up”, and my surfer “Californians” impersonations, I just wonder why they would?!

“Just keep in mind to lead by example. They will follow your lead. Not sure if you are doing this, but don't get up during the sessions, unless you really need to go.” he said.

“I really did needed to go...all 29 times.” Of course, he laughed. I...was serious.

The food in prison was repulsive. Everyone dreaded to go to lunch and dinner. The place we ate in smelled like a wet mop that swept over the dirtiest part of the NYC sewer system. It was hot and humid there, making the smell five times worse. But, because the inmates thought it to be an honor to “break bread” with us, we did it. That had to be agape love. Seriously. The only tasty things were the fruit and vegetables. The rest of the food looked like processed roadkill-to-go. It's edible, but without seasoning. So, when Saturday came, and we surprised the inmates with BBQ meals, they were excited...so was I. After eating a lot of cookies that the ministry provided and giving us constipation, it was time for a dietary change. David devoured most of our cookies on the table (hence: the nickname, Cookie Monster).

“You know how certain smells trigger your memory?” asked T-Rex. We all nodded our heads nibbling on bones. “From now on, when I'm eating BBQ, this is what I will remember. Agape Love, that the men of Kairos showed me.” I just stared at him, really thinking about what he said. Really, think about it. One common meal just impacted someone for as long as he lives.

Then, came time to share the letters. It was time for all the volunteers to exit the room.

I asked myself, “Why?” They just wanted to give them privacy. In case they needed to cry. I sneaked back in to see what was going on.

One of the leaders stopped me, “Get back over there.”

“Just making sure this wasn't a FEMA camp... That's all.”

When we gathered together again, they were of few words. So, I thought to myself, “The letters were a bit too much!” Who was I kidding? Near the end of the retreat, the men had the opportunity to share comments in front of the podium after receiving their certificate for attending the retreat. The guys in my team, St. Stephen, went up and talked, followed by the rest of the men. Most had tears running down their eyes. As I turned around to look at everyone in the audience, I ran across more tears. They praised everything we did for them, from the cookies, the BBQ, and, even, the letters. Yes, the letters. Most of the volunteers brought their families to experience the transformation that the Lord had made on that weekend. With 70% of men in prison without a father, it was no wonder these men felt the power of affirming from the Kairos men, young or old. The Lord led me to encourage the two younger guys, Rex and Willie. I walked up to them, and I said, “I'm so proud of you, guys.” We shook hands and gave a hug. They asked me if I would be back at the follow up weekend. I gave them the polite Christian answer, “I'll pray about it.” I then laughed and told them that I would. So, I'm keeping my word. I will be back in a couple of weeks.

Sometimes, it does take sacrifice to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Nevertheless, as I began to set foot outside of Baker Correctional, I looked back at the men and saw no difference between us, except for the blue uniforms they wore. We all laughed...we all learn. We all carried secrets to confess. As I looked forward, I saw the men at Kairos, getting into their vehicles.Most of them were fathers, giving of their time, energy, finances, and talent. Definitely, a sacrifice that if most Christians did, would impact this city in its entirety. I challenge you to make that sacrifice. 

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