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| This blog covers the best examples of videos for non-profit organizations, from fundraising to spreading awareness on important issues, across a variety of animation and storytelling styles. We examine what makes them work so well, and what you can learn from deconstructing the best examples, and how you use that to create your own unique animated fundraising videos. |
You understand better than anyone that changing the world is not easy, and you cannot do it alone.
Your nonprofit organization is setting out to make millions of lives better.
But people grow cynical by the day and find it difficult to decide who they can trust with their donations.
You need a way to convince the masses of your philanthropic ideals, connect with them emotionally, and why you can be trusted.
A nonprofit video for your organization is the perfect fundraising campaign tool to do everything mentioned and more!
And I will tell you why non profit video storytelling is the perfect solution for your non-profit marketing video endeavors.
Make more emotional connections, raise awareness, and reach out to like-minded people who want to save the world one step at a time.
There’s so many types of nonprofit videos in action in the form of animated fundraising videos or kickstarter explainer videos (and I'm barely scratching the surface here).
Not sure where to start?
Feel like you need some inspiration on how to produce your own video content?
Head on here to look at the 25 Best NonProfit Explainer Videos in the industry!
This list encompasses some of the best examples of successful fundraising videos by charitable organizations you’ll ever come across. Hopefully this list will encourage and inspire you with ideas of what’s possible through the art of animation! Let’s get into it.
When we made this video for charity, we decided to boldly break the fourth wall while exploring universally relatable emotions.
Our fictional protagonist, a young girl, passionately discusses the importance of preserving forests for a brighter tomorrow, shedding light on the vital role of Forest Professionals BC in safeguarding these precious ecosystems.
Why it Works:
Using this fictional testimonial video style is a great way to use storytelling to communicate an important message in a way that’s not preachy or pushy, but natural and emotionally impactful. We’re quite proud of this one!
Sure, filming with all those locations, animals, and casts would've cost a pretty penny. But with animation, the sky's the limit!
Key Takeaways:
Testimonial videos are great. But a fictional character can tell your story with as much authenticity, giving you greater creative freedom through storytelling!
The challenge with donation-driving videos is keeping the same core message feeling fresh and new every time.
We started out this video for Jewish Palm Beach with a gentle introduction, and then smoothly transitioned to a fictional character to serve as the audience surrogate, explaining how and why she donates to this non-profit.
Why it Works:
We understood that this specific target audience doesn’t need to be screamed at for donations when a more calm, steady approach can do the job better.
If you like the video and want something like this for your business, get in touch with our video experts. The team will be happy to help!
Key Takeaways:
Before you write a single line of script, ask yourself where your audience already stands on your cause. If they're warm, turn down the urgency and turn up the warmth. Not every nonprofit video needs to be a tragic rallying cry.
This is one of the best fundraising videos we’ve ever seen, and easily one of the best fundraising video examples out there in our professional opinion.
Without needing to drop statistics or facts, the video merely depicts the cruel ways pollution affects life under the sea.
Starting off with a dark, film noir-inspired world under the sea, Plastic Change’s video “Fin City” is as stylish as much as it is a haunting reminder of humanity’s impact on the oceans.
The nonprofit explainer video uses an absurd storyline of a jaded fish detective trying to piece together grisly murders as a reminder that aquatic life is helpless to solve this problem.
And that truly is enough to convey the severity of the problem. More show, less tell.
The animation ranks among the best nonprofit videos you’ll see when it comes to campaign videos for nonprofit organizations. It’s perfectly suited for going viral on social media, or even YouTube.
The stunning 3D animation had to not only make this underwater world believable, but also shine a light on the problem, all without mentioning it.
The clear call-to-action (CTA) is cleverly integrated to make a powerful emotional connection with its target audience, making it engaging and memorable.
Why it Works:
When it comes to nonprofit animation, fundraising, and raising awareness, the key is to present the same message in a fresh, new way to grab people’s attention to an important issue, even one they might not be interested in at first. And clever, innovative storytelling like this is a fantastic way to make that happen.
Key Takeaways:
This video could have taken the route of listing facts, numbers and statistics, with plenty of established science to back it up. And it would be absolutely justified, highlighting the stark reality of the situation. But by choosing fiction and storytelling, you’re bringing the problem home in a whole new and unexpected way, catching the audience off-guard and teasing their curiosity. As a bonus, even people who are not interested in this issue will be drawn in by the story, wondering where this video is taking them, before arriving at a conclusion that is certainly not make-believe.
Not all addictions are purely chemical or substance-related.
The Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario shows just how damaging addiction of any kind can be: by showing how gambling addictions can be about a lot more than just a lack of self-control.
By exposing the deeper psychological aspects and how they are the trusted experts to deal with victims of problem gambling, this nonprofit explainer video by PGIO builds trust from the get-go.
Why it Works:
First, this video works because of the not-so-secret ingredient of storytelling. By taking a problem that affects thousands, and focusing on one central character to represent them, this becomes a personal, intimate story that draws the audience in.
This video also takes full advantage of the benefits of animation, where you can get artistic and abstract in a way that live action would be limiting. The colors, shapes and highly stylized art underscore and amplify the emotions of the story, emphasizing the grip that addictive behavior can have on anyone who falls prey to it.
Key Takeaways:
Artstyles and creativity aren’t just a cherry on top to make your message more interesting. When done right, the art can amplify and communicate your message better than mere words or images can on their own. Consider the colors, shapes and symbolism used to convey the depths of despair and helplessness felt by an addict, and how it harms those around them. The art humanizes the victim, reminding the viewer that this could happen to anyone, and it’s not a moral failure of character to fall prey to addiction. The visuals aren’t just there to give the eyes something to look at while they hear the voiceover, they empower and reinforce the script, bringing it to life on a whole new level of communication.
We keep saying that the real secret ingredient behind any good video is storytelling, more than great animation, visuals or anything else.
This nonprofit explainer video delivers a powerful emotional impact, and for good reason. The charity HIAS has been on a mission spanning over a century, rescuing those who don’t have homes in their homeland anymore.
This inspirational fundraising charity video covers what the organization seeks to achieve and reaffirms the viewer about their long-standing values and principles, paired with stunning and artistic animation that reflects the heavy and serious storylines.
Why it Works:
By telling compelling stories about the refugees they help, a sense of trust is built in the viewer’s mind and heart, in a way that is only possible through animated nonprofit video storytelling.
The narrator speaks with emotional depth to bring to light the organization’s impact in rescuing those in need. The script culminates in a clear call-to-action to potential donors for fundraising.
Key Takeaways:
At the core of a lot of non-profit messaging is humanizing these global problems. It’s difficult for people to wrap their heads around a problem that affects thousands, but when you turn it into a personal story of one person, that problem suddenly has a face, and is instantly relatable to the viewer– as we see demonstrated in this video.
“What if nobody asked ‘what if?’” is the question this video for Community Futures boldly opens with.
This non profit video answers this rhetorical question by illustrating how dull and boring society would be today, if it weren’t for innovation– which is often borne out of plucky startups and small businesses in rural communities. And this innovation wouldn’t be possible without funding and flexible financing.
Which is where Community Futures come in. They connect entrepreneurs, inventors and bright minds with financing solutions that can help them bring their ideas into reality.
So they used this beautifully animated nonprofit marketing video with captivating colors and graphics to underscore and enhance a sharply-written script, all to share their story and vision with the world.
Why it Works:
While the animation is lovely and eye-grabbing, it’s the clever script and structure that really knocks it out of the park. It frames the problem as a story that makes you think, rather than a typical sob story, and subtly culminates in revealing their organization as the solution to this problem, all without being overly emotionally manipulative and avoiding a lot of the usual cliches you’d see in fundraising videos.
Key Takeaways:
Hope is a fantastic foundation to build your message on, and positivity often works better than negativity and doom-and-gloom messaging. Highlighting the problem is certainly important; but presenting the solution gives the viewer a sense of hope and a clear call-to-action on what to do about it.
We don’t tend to think of water as a precious resource, what with 75% of the Earth’s surface covered in it. But the truth is, not everyone has access to safe, potable water, and the problem is getting worse.
Charity:Water brings the issue right to your doorstep.
This charity explainer video doesn’t need facts or figures to point out how life would be difficult without clean water, it just shows the struggle.
When it does go into the hard facts, it clearly states how dangerous a lack of access to water can be, by cleverly comparing it to other forms of real-world violence.
Why it Works:
The animation is certainly colorful and appealing, without distracting from the serious issues of water shortage. But instead of focusing on just the bad, the video provides the viewer with a sense of hope.
It shows how it plans on saving millions of lives across the world who are deprived of water. And in terms of building trust, the video goes above and beyond to ask its donors to “believe again”.
Note how they encourage donations no matter how small, but also explain how they use these funds in specific, real-world ways.
Key Takeaways:
Access to clean water is one of those issues that is particularly hard to explain to the public, because it’s a surprisingly complex one. After all, 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered in water. So it’s a challenge to explain why it’s still a problem– the world may be covered in oceans but we can’t drink seawater! But animation, when done right, can do an amazing job of breaking down heavy and abstract concepts like this into simple, easy to understand beats.
This whiteboard animation video doesn’t even need a voiceover to speak volumes. With beautifully simple art and an upbeat soundtrack, it draws you in easily without having to scream for attention.
With the loss of third spaces, urbanites are learning how important it is to maintain downtown areas and walkable town squares, where the spirit of a city really lives and breathes and communities are created.
But rather than platform the problem with doom and gloom, The Downtown Raleigh Alliance celebrates these important spaces with a sense of joy and liveliness.
Why it Works:
We always say “less is more.” And clocking in at just one minute, it's a masterclass in concise communication.
By the time it wraps up, you're not just enlightened about Raleigh's scene but feeling a surge of civic pride if you're a local.
It is indeed one of the best videos for nonprofits in the list.
Key Takeaways:
Whiteboard animation has a unique superpower in that it looks deceptively simple and minimalistic, but it can do a lot with very little. It’s a naturally visual way to help an audience grasp complex ideas easily. This video uses it to great effect, paired with hope and positivity to keep it light and draw the viewer in.
The challenge with non-profit / fundraising messaging is keeping it fresh every time, so it doesn’t sound like you’re asking for a handout.
Wheels for Wishes went the storytelling route, using the perspective of a kid to explain what they do in a refreshing, fun and cheerful take. Not only does this disarm the viewer and draw them in, it simplifies the message while giving it a lot of heart too.
Why it Works:
With Wheels for Wishes steering the ship, the childlike narration adds an extra layer of humor and heart, bridging the gap between a kid’s logic and a grown-up understanding of the world.
It's proof positive that a killer explainer video script can turn standard nonprofit organization commercials into pure gold.
Key Takeaways:
When raising awareness about the needy and less fortunate, it’s all too easy (and cliche) to go the doom-and-gloom route. And while many of these issues are important and serious, there are many ways to lighten the mood and inject some positivity into your message. We see that in this video, where it goes for a lighthearted and cheerful vibe to communicate its message.
This nonprofit explainer video by Exodus Cry dives deep into the harsh realities of human trafficking, posing the difficult question: “Is prostitution really a choice?”
It delves into how women are often coerced into believing it's their only option.
It’s a tricky and taboo topic, but this video handles it perfectly.
Why it Works:
With a powerful score and intricate animation, it weaves a compelling video narrative that urges viewers to take action and advocate for these women.
This proves that animation can be just as impactful as live-action, offering versatile storytelling and seamless transitions.
Ending with a resounding call to action, it's a reminder that we must speak up and spread awareness about the truth of human trafficking.
Key Takeaways:
This video works so well because it avoids a lot of the cliches when it comes to human trafficking and prostitution, while also handling the issue with the weight and seriousness it deserves. It strikes the right balance, highlighting the magnitude of the problem, but also brimming with hope and resilience.
Discussing cancer isn’t a walk in the park. And it’s the kind of topic most people don’t really like to think about much. And on top of that, it’s also a pretty complex and confusing subject.
But leave it to the power of animated storytelling to make it enlightening and even entertaining!
Why it Works:
Their animated not for profit video for The Cancer Research Institute effortlessly breaks down the differences between immunotherapy and chemotherapy, all without drowning you in technical terms.
With a soothing voiceover and clever storytelling, it's the perfect blend of education and engagement.
Key Takeaways:
This video works because it speaks with a quiet building authority on the subject, while also not overwhelming the viewer with too much dense scientific jargon. This approach disarms the viewer; breaks down complex issues; but most importantly, builds a deep sense of trust with the audience.
Who needs words when you’ve got visuals, beats, and a dash of creativity?
Transportation Alternatives nails it by illustrating the significance of spatial equity using only animations, typography, and mesmerising sound effects.
Why it Works:
This video is the quintessential example of the minimalist rule “show, don’t tell.” Rather than deliver a tedious lecture with abstract facts and figures to flesh out the problem, it simply shows you the issues faced in any densely populated metropolis like New York City. And it does this by showing people dealing with these issues as they go about their daily routines– which makes it immediately personal and relatable, even to viewers who don’t experience these issues daily.
Key Takeaways:
This video is proof that with storytelling, the “less is more” rule is key. Rather than dive deep into statistics and numbers, this video cuts through to the heart of the problem, delivering a message through emotion as well as practical reality.
"A Short History of the Nightingale" takes us on a captivating journey through the world of bird migration, showcasing the evolving understanding of these feathered travelers.
It's not just a tale of a songbird; it's a testament to how science shapes conservation efforts.
Why it Works:
Clocking in at over three minutes, this video proves that sometimes longer is better, offering a deeper dive into complex topics without boring the viewer.
So while short may be sweet for some, there’s beauty in the details when it comes to educated audiences and animal conservation.
From mystifying migrations to scientific breakthroughs, the nightingale’s story reminds us of our duty to protect the natural world.
Key Takeaways:
While a lot of nature conservation videos focus on the consequences we’ll have to deal with for throwing nature out of balance, it’s an equally important message that we need to fix nature because quite simply, we’re the ones who broke it in the first place. And in this video, through carefully scripted science and case studies like the nightingale, the abstract nature of the problem is broken down into tangible, real-world issues the audience can grasp and appreciate. This is why it works so well.
Doctors Without Borders is one of the boldest, bravest non-profit organizations out there, famously sending its workers to the most dangerous places where other charities refuse to set foot.
And while a good voiceover can be the cherry on top of a short video, sometimes the visuals steal the show all on their own.
Why it Works:
Once again, we see the power of storytelling at work. This video blends non-fictional storytelling elements with real-world news events that are still unfolding.
When you’re diving into sensitive territory like in this nonprofit video, subtitles become your trusty sidekick, ensuring your message hits home loud and clear. An added bonus is that it’s easier to make subtitles for multiple languages than multiple voiceovers, especially when it comes to charity animation and messaging to a broad and global audience.
Because in the world of visuals, sometimes silence can speak volumes.
Key Takeaways:
Another example of the less-is-more rule, this video cuts through the noise because of its creative vision and storytelling, becoming more art than documentary. It skips the dry facts-and-figures lecture and focuses on the emotional core of the message. And that’s why it’s effective.
Here’s a video that goes for shock and awe.
Great Lakes Cormorants pulls no punches in its nonprofit promo video, starting off with serene visuals of these majestic birds in their element, only to hit viewers with the grim reality of hunters endangering their population.
Why it Works:
This video is a wake-up call that grabs attention like a bear snatching a picnic basket.
But remember, while shock tactics can be effective, tread carefully to avoid alienating potential supporters with overly graphic content.
It's all about finding that fine line between grabbing attention and keeping it. And this video pulls it off perfectly, while making it look easy.
Key Takeaways:
This video is carefully crafted to attack the question “why should I care?” by quickly framing the history behind this issue, then explaining the problem, and ending on a clear and simple call to action. And it does this all within a minute, without feeling rushed or hysterical. It’s a perfectly tightly packaged message wrapped in beautiful animation that’s guaranteed to grab and hold the viewer’s attention.
This nonprofit organization video by Bliss Baby Charity takes a unique and humorous approach, with scenes of hugging, even getting Godzilla in on the action.
But as it unfolds, it reveals a poignant message about the challenges faced by parents of premature babies.
Clocking in at just 47 seconds, it's a powerful reminder of the emotional and financial toll of prematurity.
With no music to distract, it's a quiet but impactful tribute to the silence needed in neonatal care.
Why it Works:
When it comes to non-profit videos, it’s all about making the message fresh and finding new and innovative ways to get your target audience’s attention to your cause. This video pulls it off using cute and cheeky humor, rather than the usual doom-and-gloom messaging. This draws the viewer in with curiosity, wondering where this story is going, before landing an impactful and heartfelt reveal and conclusion. It’s sincere but not heavy-handed either, and stands as an excellent example of humor.
Key Takeaways:
This video works because humor is an invaluable and underrated tool for supercharging your messaging and winning your audience’s attention and hearts, especially when done just right. It’s also important not to make light of serious issues, so striking the right balance is key.
Global poverty is no joke, but The Girl Effect isn't afraid to tackle it head-on with their media programs in Asia and Africa.
In this typographic video, they drive home the urgency of empowering adolescent girls to fight poverty before time runs out.
Why it Works:
Clocking in at over 3 minutes, it's a colorful cascade of text-based visuals and music that packs a serious punch. It’s another example of storytelling, where we follow the journey of a young girl from birth to adulthood, and the many hurdles she must jump through because of poverty. This personalizes the message, giving us a heroine to root for, even if she’s just represented as a symbol.
Key Takeaways:
This video wins because it follows the storytelling rule of “the power of one.” Rather than focus on a large demographic group, you can make your message more personal and intimate by focusing on a single representative member of that group instead, and create a story around them.
In the world of nonprofits, cozying up to your audience is key since donations keep the lights on.
But here's the kicker: you've got to stir them to action without dumping guilt on their doorstep. And here’s how The Plastic Pollution Coalition pulled it off.
Enter animation—the stealthy superhero of storytelling.
Cleverly paired with humor, it dishes out relatable tales with a side of understanding, leaving guilt trips at the door.
Why it Works:
When you want to raise awareness on something like plastic, it’s easy to take the guilt-trip route and make the viewer feel bad. But this video avoids that and goes the route of humor with a storyline of a person “breaking up” with plastic like the end of a relationship. This disarms the viewer and teases curiosity, with the humor making it entertaining and lighthearted, while still delivering the message.
Key Takeaways:
Humor and hope are a powerful combination for delivering a message on an otherwise serious and depressing topic. The secret is artistry with your script and video to craft the perfect package around your cause. And we can see it work to perfection in this video.
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite nonprofits?
Take a peek at The Letters Foundation’s video. Founded by the Buffet siblings, this organization is all about lending a helping hand to those in need.
Why it Works:
With a style that’s as charming as it is easy on the eyes, it’s the perfect match for this wholesome nonprofit brand.
Who would have thought that philanthropy could exude such a delightful charm?
Key Takeaways:
There’s a reason why brand storytelling works so well. We love stories about plucky, maverick visionary founders like Steve Jobs and Henry Ford creating corporate empires from their genius. But this video proves that when done right, that can work just as well for nonprofits, illustrating the hearts and minds of the people behind organizations that fight for a noble cause.
We live in such a huge world that it seems difficult to convince people that we’re all interconnected, and our individual actions can and do affect the world at large.
It’s why action movies focus on one solo hero in battle, rather than the squadron, or the entire army as a whole.
Why it Works:
Thanks to the power of animated storytelling, even big-picture complex concepts like the entire world’s population, can be simplified and explained easily to even the casual viewer. Through clever and lively visuals and a soothing but dramatic voiceover, these abstract ideas can be made clear and urgent by UNESCO.
Key Takeaways:
This is one of those nonprofit advertisements we point to as a great example of how animation can bring even the most abstract, nebulous concepts to life, with artistry, symbolism and slick transitions. Here, the video element isn’t just eye candy or decoration, it’s integral to the message, amplifying it into something that’s easy to understand and enjoy.
Talk about beauty in simplicity! This nonprofit explainer video's like a pocket-sized masterpiece by Flight for survival, rocking an animation style that'll make you do a double-take.
Clocking in at just 30 seconds, it's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it glimpse into the world of Every Mother Counts, leaving you hungry for more.
Why it Works:
With its neat and clean animation, it's all about keeping your eyes on the prize—no distractions, just the straight-up message. It’s clear, focused and effective.
Key Takeaways:
You don’t have to throw everything at the wall to make your video work. Sometimes, quiet minimalism stands out better than loud clutter, as in this video. Pair that with an intimate, personal approach with a universal central heroine figure that represents all expecting mothers worldwide, and you’re saying a lot with very little, and making a much bigger impact.
This animated nonprofit video from the American Cancer Society, who’s turning serious business into a laugh riot with their quirky animated series on skin cancer prevention.
With a bright and bubbly style that’s more cartoon caper than cautionary tale, this nonprofit animation shows nonprofits how to keep it light without skimping on the substance. This, and the short length of this story video, also make it perfect for your social media marketing strategy.
Why it Works:
Humor is a powerful storytelling tool, grabbing attention, entertaining, and disarming difficult topics to be more digestible and easy to follow.
Key Takeaways:
Once again, we see an animated video that strikes the perfect balance between celebrating levity and delivering a serious warning. It’s not casual about skin cancer, but doesn’t go the fearful doom-and-gloom approach, either. This is because hope and humor work better than fear and hopelessness.
Check out how this video for the City of Hope grabs the viewer’s attention on a topic that would otherwise be boring. Whiteboard animation is the secret ingredient here, making the mundane interesting and attention-grabbing.
Why it Works:
This sleek and snappy style cuts through the clutter, keeping viewers glued to the goods without any unnecessary frills. The script is crisp and straight to the point, not wasting even a second on filler.
It's like delivering a message with laser precision—clean, crisp, and totally unforgettable.
Key Takeaways:
The Covid pandemic saw an explosion in media worldwide, teaching the public how to avoid infection. This lovely whiteboard animation is a great example of how key facts are broken down and emphasized with clever minimalist visuals to deliver an important message easily.
Check out this dynamic duo of Cause Story in the nonprofit world!
They swoop in to save the day for fresh-faced organizations, handling all the nitty-gritty logistics while leaving the fun stuff to the dreamers.
Why it Works:
With an animation style that's sleek, straightforward, and straight-up irresistible, they're proving that less is more when it comes to delivering the goods.
Key Takeaways:
This video works because it avoids cliches, uses strong storytelling, and is backed up by beautiful visuals to underscore every point. It’s a powerful and nimble package that lands its message strongly.
CV Humanitarian Travel stands out because, while not a typical nonprofit themselves, they’re like the ultimate wingman for those doing noble selfless nonprofit work around the world.
They’re like a travel genie for humanitarian heroes, hooking them up with discounted airfare and smoothing out the trip planning wrinkles.
Why it Works:
This animated video is slick, cute and stylish without being pretentious or cluttered. Paired with a friendly and natural voiceover, the one-two punch of storytelling and animation delivers a neatly-packaged message that lands with its audience.
Key Takeaways:
Even if your message may be simple, boring or technical, you can still bring the heart of it to life and grab attention through creative storytelling and slick animation, like in this video. Once again, we see that animation isn’t just visual filler to give the viewer something pretty to look at while the voiceover delivers its message; rather, it’s a powerful blend of the visuals with its message, where each play off each other to create a whole that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Animated nonprofit videos are one of the most effective tools for mission-driven storytelling. Unlike traditional formats, animation helps simplify complex causes, evoke emotion, and connect with viewers on a deeper level—without the high costs of live-action production.
Whether it’s raising awareness, attracting donors, or explaining how your nonprofit makes an impact, animated videos are versatile and engaging. They can also be supported by channels such as email marketing for nonprofits, helping organizations extend their message through thoughtful, ongoing communication. You can visualize data, tell stories without borders, and customize every frame to match your branding.
For nonprofits with limited budgets and big goals, animated videos offer a scalable way to drive visibility, trust, and support—across websites, social media, and fundraising campaigns.
Your message doesn’t have to end up lost in the white noise of the internet.
Team up with a good video production company and find out what’s possible. Reach your audience, make sure your voice is heard, and grow closer to changing the world for the better.
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