Hope Is An Ineffective Word
You launched your nonprofit (or you are dreaming about launching one) because you saw a problem and felt the need to do something to solve it. You are fueled by passion, dedication, and a deep sense of HOPE for a better future. But, when it comes to communicating with clarity, especially in the early stages of your nonprofit journey, relying on “hope” isn’t cutting it… in fact, it can hinder your growth.
The Trouble with “Hope”
We talk about “hoping” to make a difference, “hoping” to change a life, or “our programs provide hope to someone in need”. While those words sound warm and fuzzy, “hope” provides a significant challenge in communication:
It’s Not Measurable: How do you count it? How much hope did you generate last quarter? How do you report on your “hope” delivery to a potential donor? You can’t because hope is an aspiration – not a result.
It’s Subjective: What “hope” means to you might differ vastly from what it means to a donor, a volunteer, or your board. Less clarity = weakened messaging.
It Lacks Credibility: Volunteers, partners, donors, etc. are all looking for impact. They want to know WHAT you are achieving, not what you wish to achieve. “Hope” is not a plan.
Shift Your Language
Moving beyond hope means translating your passion into language that demonstrates real world progress and potential. Instead of talking about hope, focus on:
1. Specific Actions: What are you doing?
§ Instead of: “We’re sharing hope with the homeless in Denver.”
§ Say this: “We’re distributing 500 meal kits every week to families who are at risk of going hungry.”
2. Clear Outputs: What are the immediate results of your actions?
§ Instead of: “We hope to educate children in our county.”
§ Say this: “Our after-school reading program increased the reading level of 75 elementary students by 2 grade levels this semester.”
3. Measurable Outcomes: What is the change you are creating? (This is where the GOLD is)
§ Instead of: We hope our community is inspired to care for our greenspaces…
§ Say this: Following our 6-week community restoration workshop, 17 acres of empty community lots have been converted to greenspace and neighborhood playground parks.
Why Clarity Wins
Focusing on measurable impact through clear communication means tangible benefits for your nonprofit:
Builds Trust and Credibility: Demonstrating concrete, measurable results shows that you are accountable and effective.
Attracts Major Givers: Donors and foundations invest in organizations that can prove their impact. Clear metrics make a compelling case.
Engages Supporters: Volunteers and partners what to see that their time and effort is actually making a difference. Getting specific is really motivating!
Informs Strategy: Tracking measurable goals helps you understand what is working, and what isn’t and where to focus your limited resources.
Better Stories: Specific achievements strengthen your nonprofit’s narrative, making it more compelling and memorable.
Your passion and desire to see the world be a better place is the heart of your nonprofit. But to build a sustainable organization that truly achieves its mission, you need to communicate with clarity, focusing on the measurable impact you can create. Let your results speak for themselves… they are far more powerful than hope alone.