If you need more reason to ditch the print-outs and the snail mail, this is it. Being environmentally conscious with your annual report is a win-win—the earth will thank you, and so will your nonprofit. When you switch to a digital-only report, you show your supporters that core values drive your business, you’re focused on cost-efficiency, and you’re creative where it counts—the demonstration of each will entice both veteran supporters and potential new audiences.
Core values
The essence of a successful nonprofit usually centers around creating or aiding positive communal impact, either globally or locally. A nonprofit’s values, and the integrity they bring to their work, shouldn’t be limited to the pursuit of their cause—when you skip the paper copies of your report, you’re reminding your supporters of those core values. People want to support organizations that take action and make change—no matter how small. In return, you’ll build trust and reputability.
Cost-efficiency
Donors care about where their money is going (hence, why an annual report is often so crucial!). Most, if not all, want to know that the majority of their contributions will fund the cause, and not administrative or operational costs of business (though some of that might be inevitable). When you go green with your annual report, you’re showing donors that you too care about where their money is spent and a digital annual report—distributed by email or social media—can be much more cost-efficient than printing and marketing via snail mail.
Creativity where it counts
Lastly, when you go digital and start incorporating new, inspiring visual elements to your reports (think testimonials, heartfelt stories, and more), you’re showing your supporters and stakeholders that you handle storytelling with care. It shows donors and partners that you’re abreast of new and improved ways of meeting your goals, and are at the forefront of progress—your organization is one worth investing in. In truth, it’s often the small things that add up to make a difference to both your supporters and the communities you serve.
By going green with your next digital report—a seemingly small but incredibly impactful change—you’ll keep key constituents on your team.