Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Clear Case Statement
- Sheree Cannon
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: May 14
How a strong case for support builds donor trust, internal alignment, and confident fundraising
Sheree Cannon | Nonprofit Strategist & Consultant | Author
© Sheree Cannon. All rights reserved.
Introduction
Most nonprofit leaders understand that their organization needs money to grow—but fewer understand what’s needed to invite that support effectively. That’s where the Case Statement comes in.
A Case Statement isn’t just a fundraising tool—it’s a clarity tool. It’s how you communicate your mission, why it matters, and what you’re asking donors or partners to do about it.
This white paper explores why every nonprofit needs a strong, updated Case Statement—and how it can shift your development strategy from reactive to rooted.
What Is a Case Statement?
A Case Statement (also called a Case for Support) is a foundational document that clearly explains:
Who you are
What problem you’re solving
Why your work matters
How you’re making a difference
What support you need right now
It’s not a grant proposal. It’s not a brochure. It’s the clear, compelling language that unites your leadership, inspires your board, and invites donors to act with confidence.
“If your team can’t clearly articulate your case, your donors won’t be able to either.”
Why It Matters—Now More Than Ever
Donors are thoughtful. Boards are busy. Fundraising teams are stretched. If your messaging is unclear or inconsistent, people will fill in the blanks—or walk away.
A strong Case Statement:
Builds donor trust and connection
Clarifies your message across staff, board, and volunteers
Makes fundraising asks more confident and consistent
Serves as a foundation for campaigns, events, and appeals
Helps you attract aligned partners, not just any donors
It saves time, reduces confusion, and creates alignment where it’s needed most.
What Happens Without One
When nonprofits don’t have a Case Statement—or have one that’s outdated or vague—they often experience:
Conflicting or inconsistent messaging
Staff or board unsure how to talk about the mission
Fundraising efforts that feel scattered or reactive
Missed opportunities to secure larger or long-term gifts
A lack of clarity during grant applications or strategic partnerships
Without a strong case, fundraising becomes about convincing people to give—instead of inviting them to join something meaningful.
A Case Statement Is More Than a Document
It’s a leadership tool. A culture builder. A fundraising compass.
The process of creating or refining your case helps surface:
Your real impact
What differentiates you from others
What you most need from donors
How you talk about success, growth, and need
And once created, your Case Statement should live everywhere—in appeals, board conversations, slide decks, staff onboarding, and development meetings.
What Makes a Case Statement Strong
A good Case Statement is:
Clear (no jargon or vague generalities)
Compelling (it tells a story and invites action)
Honest (it names both the urgency and the vision)
Aligned (it reflects your mission, values, and current needs)
Adaptable (easily tailored to different audiences or formats)
It should reflect you—your voice, your mission, your work in the world.
Conclusion: A Case That Carries the Mission Forward
You don’t need more polished language—you need aligned clarity. A strong Case Statement creates that alignment.
It helps your board speak with confidence.It helps your staff make clearer asks.It helps your donors feel part of something that matters.
And when your case is clear, consistent, and current—your fundraising becomes more than strategy. It becomes a shared invitation into impact.
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