A case statement, also called a case for support, is a concise, persuasive document that tells a nonprofit organization’s story— why it’s needed, how it’s making a difference, and why people should be excited to support it. We often think of case statements serving a limited purpose, perhaps being a presentation of your work to major funders. However, a case statement has the potential to fill many gaps and meet multiple needs for your organization.
A case statement is a powerful tool that helps nonprofit organizations raise funds, build relationships, develop programs, and fulfill their mission. It serves as a vital component of a successful fundraising strategy and is a valuable asset for any organization. In this article, we will outline what a case statement is and identify the top three benefits of a strong nonprofit case statement.
What is a case statement?
A case statement should inform and convince, which is a practice dating back centuries. Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle is credited with establishing how to effectively make an argument using ethos, logos, and pathos in his treatise Rhetoric (4th century BCE). These three tools are effective devices to persuade an audience, and they come in handy when developing a case statement (Grant Prose for Grant Pros Workshop, 2022). Ethos, referring to ethics, is the establishment of authority or credibility. This is the nonprofit’s opportunity to encourage the reader to trust them by showcasing their qualifications. Logos, referring to logic, is an appeal to the audience’s reason. What data can you use to persuade your audience? Pathos, referring to emotion, is the chance to appeal to an audience’s feelings.
With these tools in mind, a case statement answers the questions:
- Who are you? What is your organization’s origin story? What is the purpose of your work?
- Why are you needed? What specific community need does your organization address? Why is this need critical and urgent?
- How do you do your work? What methods do you use to meet this community need? How is your organization uniquely qualified and situated to address the need? What is different for individuals and the community because of your work?
- Where are you going? What is your vision for the next 5-10 years? Why does the community need you to carry out that vision?
- What can people do to support you? Why you and not another organization? What can you do with more support? What can’t you do without more support?
A well-written case statement following these principles can help the organization inspire individuals to donate their time or money and build relationships with other nonprofits, corporations, and government agencies that share similar goals.
Why is a case statement an essential tool for your organization?
With time and expertise, a well-rounded, convincing case statement will benefit your nonprofit organization extensively for years to come. Here are just a few reasons why.
Benefit #1: Strengthen your communications. A case statement…
- Creates shared language. A case statement provides a singular location to gather talking points for an organization related to what they do and why they do it.
- Establishes a template. Use a case statement to craft language that can be seamlessly edited to tell your organization’s story within grant applications.
The Milk Bank enlisted case management services from Hedges. With a mission to: “save infant lives and improve health outcomes by providing access to safe human milk,” The Milk Bank benefitted by creating a case statement. The Milk Bank’s Chief Executive Officer Freedom Kolb said:
“Having a thoughtful, robust case statement has been incredibly impactful for The Milk Bank. The organization originally wanted to build a strong statement of support to assist in external communications. This has been incredibly useful in quick, compelling preparation for grant proposals and media responses. However, it has also resulted in unexpected gains with internal communication. Leveraging Hedges expertise resulted in more concise talking points for the organization that then informed goals, board education, and staff onboarding. We especially love having all our commonly referenced impact stats and citations in one accessible place!”
Benefit # 2: Tell your story to attract resources and people. Your case statement…
- Establishes your credibility. A strong case statement builds trust and credibility with potential donors, volunteers, and partners, showing that the organization is well-managed, effective, and committed to its mission.
- Clarifies your impact. A well-crafted case statement clearly articulates the organization’s work and the positive outcomes it delivers. This helps potential donors, volunteers, and partners understand how their contributions will make a tangible difference.
- Demonstrates your need. It highlights the urgent need for the organization’s services and the gap it fills, inspiring potential donors, volunteers, and partners to support the cause.
Benefit #3: Align and focus your organization internally. Your case statement…
- Guides strategic planning. Developing a case statement forces the organization to define its mission, vision, and goals clearly. This ensures that everyone within the organization is working toward a common purpose.
- Informs decision-making. A case statement provides a framework for board members and staff to make informed decisions about resource allocation, program development, and fundraising strategies.
- Fosters unity. It creates a shared sense of direction and purpose, motivating staff and volunteers to work together effectively.
No stranger to the benefits of a strong case statement, Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) partnered with Hedges to develop a case statement. ICAN is a nonprofit organization that “advocates for independence and opportunity by facilitating partnerships between people and dogs to unleash possibility.” ICAN’s President Jillian Ashton shared:
“I believe a well-crafted case statement is such a powerful tool to align everyone who interfaces with your mission. It ensures board members, staff, volunteers, and donors all have a clear and unified understanding of who we are and why it is important we exist. It casts vision and declares impact. It fosters collaboration and strengthens the overall effectiveness of the organization as it informs all internal and external communications. It’s the one document we should all agree upon!”
Case statements can take a nonprofit organization to the next level, enhancing communications, financial strength, clarity, and morale. By making the creation of this essential document a priority, you will help your organization to thrive well into the future.
Interested learning more about partnering with Hedges to create your organization’s case statement? Visit our nonprofit page here or email us directly. Hedges has many other excellent resources too, like our Mini Assessment to evaluate your organization’s readiness to begin applying for grant funding. Download this free resource.
Alexis Kollay D’Ettorre
is a Senior Consultant at Hedges. Prior to joining the team, Alexis gained experience in leadership and curriculum development for higher education organizations. She holds a Master of Education from North Carolina State University and has dedicated her career to serving diverse nonprofit organizations. Alexis is a Grant Professional Certified (GPC), known for her expertise in building consensus and fostering collaboration, empowering each individual to engage their unique passions for greater impact.