Nonprofit Impact Reports: The Ultimate Guide to Surveys

Creating and disseminating effective surveys is crucial to nonprofit impact reports. Often, though, nonprofits don’t know what their purpose is, or whom to send them to.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a few types of surveys, and the benefits of each.

What is an impact survey?

One of the most basic parts of running a nonprofit organization is showcasing impact. Donors want to know that their contributions are making real change. This impact is often measured quantitively and qualitatively.

Surveys are a great way to measure that qualitative impact. With lots of questions—multiple choice, short answer, etc.— geared toward the stakeholders, nonprofits can harness a wealth of information.

Why are they important for nonprofit impact reports?

Impact surveys allow nonprofits take to make data-driven decisions. And, they allow them to emotionally appeal to their stakeholders.

With feedback about their organization, nonprofits can plan for the future. And make improvements. Plus, nonprofits can use emotional responses from stakeholders in marketing materials.

Where do you showcase the results?

The results of an impact survey are perfect for annual and impact reporting. And, quarterly updates, event recaps, and board reports. In these, nonprofits can showcase impact through infographics, well-design quotes, or even videos.

Types of surveys for nonprofit impact reports

For donors. When creating a survey for donors, consider including questions that speak to their connection to your mission. Why do they donate? What about your organization means the most to them? What are they hoping their money will do? Why should others donate to the cause?

For beneficiaries. Surveying beneficiaries is one of the best ways to show impact. By sending these communities questions, you’ll have evidence of your progress and impact. Ask beneficiaries about how your organization has helped them, and in what way.

For volunteers. One of the best ways to entice new volunteers is by showcasing the benefits of volunteerism. Networking, friendship building, and free event attendance are a few appealing perks. In your volunteer survey, ask volunteers why they enjoy contributing to your organization. And how it makes them feel. What benefits have they experienced from participating? Why should others volunteer their time?

For partners or sponsors. Sponsors are an enormous part of a nonprofit organization. When surveying them, be sure to ask why they like supporting your cause. What benefits have they received? Why is it important?

For event attendees. Event attendee surveys are perfect for nonprofit event recaps. Ask your attendees what they liked about the event, and what they’re looking forward to most at the next one. Consider asking why they attended in the first place, and what the mission means to them.