Every nonprofit starts with a purpose. But in today’s fast-paced world, even the most powerful mission can get lost in the noise. That’s where public relations (PR) comes in.

PR isn't just about media mentions or press releases. It’s about creating trust, showing your impact, and building lasting relationships with supporters. Whether you’re planning nonprofit events or simply want to connect better with your audience, a solid PR strategy can help you grow, thrive, and change more lives.

At Givease, we’ve worked with countless mission-driven groups. We’ve seen firsthand how smart communication turns interest into action. Here are 8 real-world PR strategies that actually work.

1. Share Real Stories That Make People Care

People remember people, not numbers.

Instead of saying, “We served 10,000 meals,” tell the story of a single mother who got a warm meal after losing her job. Paint a picture. Use their words. Let readers feel the impact.

• Use direct quotes (with permission)
• Include first names and photos
• Highlight transformation, not just struggle

You can include stories in newsletters, blog posts, social media, and during live nonprofit events. Real people bring your mission to life in a way data never will.

Why this works: Emotions drive decisions. A powerful story makes people take action—donate, volunteer, or share.

2. Build Relationships with Local Media

Getting covered by national media is great, but often hard to secure. Your local community media, however, is more accessible and often more loyal to local stories.

Start by researching reporters who cover community, education, or human interest stories. Introduce yourself by email. Keep it short and genuine. Share who you are, what your nonprofit does, and how it benefits the local community.

Next time you host nonprofit events, notify them early. Send a short press release with:

• A catchy title
• The date, time, and location
• Who’s involved
• Why it matters

Hot Tip: Offer interviews with people directly helped by your organization. Reporters love human-focused angles.

Once you’re featured, say thank you publicly. Tag the reporter or publication on social media. Gratitude keeps doors open.

3. Collaborate With Mission-Aligned Partners

You don’t have to do it all alone.

Look for other nonprofits, small businesses, or influencers who care about similar causes. You can team up for events, campaigns, or content. This helps you tap into each other’s networks and gain new supporters.

For example:

• A local grocery store might sponsor your food drive
• A local youth group might co-host one of your nonprofit events USA
• A mental health nonprofit might guest post on your blog

Be clear about shared goals. Keep branding consistent. And promote each other across all channels.

Why this works: Collaboration builds credibility. When trusted partners support you, people are more likely to believe in your cause.

4. Stay Consistent (and Real) on Social Media

Social media is one of the most powerful PR tools when used correctly. But you don’t need to post five times a day. What matters more is being clear, consistent, and genuine.

Start by picking 2–3 platforms your audience already uses (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or even TikTok).

Post content like:

• Behind-the-scenes from your latest events
• Short videos from beneficiaries or volunteers
• Staff spotlights
• Impact graphics (e.g., “$10 = 1 week of meals”)

Keep your tone conversational, warm, and personal. Don’t use big words or heavy terms. Talk to your audience like a friend.

• Reply to comments
• Thank donors publicly
• Use stories and reels to show real-time updates

Tip: Add purpose-driven tags like #NonprofitEventsUSA or #GiveBackTogether to get discovered by new supporters.

5. Turn Volunteers Into Ambassadors

Volunteers are more than extra hands. They are your most trusted voices.

People believe their friends more than they believe any ad. When your volunteers talk about your mission, it carries real weight.

Here's how to turn volunteers into brand ambassadors:

• Encourage them to post photos 
• Share their testimonials on your site or social pages
• Feature them in newsletters (“Meet Anna, who’s helped us every weekend for 3 years…”)
• Let a volunteer “take over” your Instagram or Facebook for a day

Provide them with simple captions, hashtags, and graphics to use. Make it easy and fun for them to promote you.

Why this works: Word-of-mouth is the most trusted form of PR. It builds community and long-term support.

6. Be Fully Transparent About Your Impact

Trust is fragile. One unclear statement about finances can turn people away.

That’s why it’s critical to clearly show where donations go and what they accomplish.

Instead of saying, “Funds support our programs,” break it down like this:

• $10 = clean water for a family for 1 week
• $25 = art supplies for 3 students
• $100 = one month of shelter for a homeless individual

Use visuals like pie charts or “Your Gift = Real Impact” sections in donation pages and brochures. Add these breakdowns to your press releases and nonprofit events signage.

Also: Share failures and lessons learned. Donors appreciate honesty.

7. Use Email Marketing With a Personal Touch

Think email is dead? Think again.

Email is still one of the most effective ways to stay connected. But you need to use it right.

Segment your list so people get messages that match their role:

• Donors get impact updates and thank-you notes
• Volunteers get event reminders
• Partners get collaboration opportunities

Keep each email short, warm, and purposeful. Use first names. Avoid formal or robotic language.

Examples of subject lines that work:

• “You made this happen, Carla!”
• “Want to see where your donation went?”
• “One family. One story. One thank you.”

Include one clear call to action (donate, RSVP, share). Don’t overload with links or buttons.

Why this works: Personalized emails feel human, and they drive higher open rates and engagement.

8. Make Events a PR Opportunity

Events do more than raise money—they tell your story in real time.

Each event should have a media and content strategy. Whether it’s a virtual fundraiser, a cleanup drive, or a gala, here’s how to make it PR-ready:

Before the Event:

• Send press releases to local news
• Announce on social media
• Invite community leaders and influencers

During the Event:

• Take photos and videos (get consent)
• Share real-time updates via Instagram/Facebook stories
• Interview volunteers or attendees on video

After the Event:

• Post a photo album or thank-you video
• Share how many people attended, how much was raised, and the outcome
• Email attendees a recap with a link to donate again

Highlight these stories on your homepage, social channels, and PR materials.

If you're running nonprofit events, make sure the messaging always ties back to your mission and impact.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple. Keep It Human.

PR doesn't have to be complicated. At Givease, we've learned that the most effective strategies are the ones rooted in honesty, clarity, and empathy.

You don’t need flashy ads or a big agency. You just need to show up, tell the truth, and make people feel like part of the mission.

Whether you’re planning local fundraisers or managing large-scale events, these strategies can help you create deeper connections, grow your support base, and turn awareness into action.