As Giving Tuesday and the year-end giving season approach, nonprofit organizations are gearing up for one of the most critical fundraising periods of the year. With inboxes overflowing and social media feeds packed with appeals, video is your way to rise above the noise and move hearts to action.

At Motion Source, we’ve helped countless nonprofits tell their stories through powerful visuals that inspire generosity. Whether you’re a local organization or a national nonprofit, here are our top video marketing tips to help you connect, engage, and convert supporters this giving season.

1. Start With Storytelling, Not Statistics

People give to people, not numbers. Instead of leading with how many meals you served or how many programs you ran, tell a story that puts a face to your mission.

* Feature one beneficiary whose life was changed by your work.

* Use authentic emotion: a smile, a moment of hope, a genuine “thank you.”

* Keep it personal and real.

Pro Tip: In 60–90 seconds, you can take your viewer from awareness to empathy to action.

2. Capture the Spirit of Giving Tuesday Early

Giving Tuesday moves fast, and donors’ attention spans are short. Plan your video content 2–3 weeks before the big day to build anticipation. Consider creating:

* A teaser video: 15–30 seconds that announces your campaign.

* A main story video: 60–90 seconds that captures your impact.

* A thank-you video: Posted after Giving Tuesday to show appreciation and keep the momentum going through December.

Remember: The best campaigns aren’t one-time posts; they’re stories told over time.

3. Optimize for Every Platform

Not all videos work the same way everywhere.

*Instagram & TikTok: Go vertical, keep it short, and hook your audience in the first few seconds.

*Facebook & LinkedIn: Slightly longer videos (up to 90 seconds) with captions work best.

*Email: Embed a video thumbnail linked to your landing page. Including “video” in your subject line can increase open rates by 19%!

*Website: Place your Giving Tuesday video at the top of your donation page to increase conversions.

Tip: Add captions. 85% of people watch videos with the sound off.

4. Feature Your Team and Supporters

Donors love seeing the human side of your mission. Record short clips from your staff, volunteers, or board members sharing why they give or why they care.

You can easily compile these into a heartfelt montage video that builds community and trust.

5. Show Gratitude, Not Just Need

Donors want to feel like they’re part of the solution, not guilted into giving. Use your videos to show impact and appreciation:

* “Here’s what you helped make possible.”

* “Together, we’re changing lives.”

A well-crafted thank you video after Giving Tuesday can increase donor retention and set the tone for the year ahead.

6. Partner With Professionals (Like Us!)

High-quality storytelling doesn’t have to mean Hollywood budgets. Working with a video production partner can help your nonprofit:

* Capture compelling interviews and visuals

* Craft a clear, emotional narrative

* Edit multiple versions for different platforms

We understand nonprofit budgets and timelines and we’re here to help you create impactful content that moves donors from “I care” to “I’m giving.”

Ready to Tell Your Story?

Giving Tuesday and year-end fundraising are big opportunities to inspire generosity. With the right story and visuals, your mission can reach more hearts and make a lasting impact.

Let’s make this giving season your most successful yet.