25 Best Nonprofit Videos That Inspire & Drive Donations

Marcus Santiago
Feb 27, 2025 7:26:41 AM
Looking to create a powerful video for your cause? The best nonprofit videos don’t just inform—they inspire action. Whether you’re raising awareness or funds, these nonprofit explainer videos showcase how animated storytelling can make your mission unforgettable. In this post, we’ve curated the most impactful animated nonprofit videos that drive real results—from increasing donations to building trust with your audience.

 

A bit short on time? We've got you covered!

Check out our top picks for the best nonprofit explainer videos in this compilation below:

 

But in case you want to see what these videos are really capable of, read along...

You understand better than anyone that your goal to change 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 show them why you can be trusted.

An animated nonprofit explainer video for your organization is the perfect fundraising campaign tool to do everything mentioned!

And I will tell you why non-profit video storytelling is the perfect solution for your marketing endeavors. 

In this article, I'll take you on a tour of the industry's 23 Best Nonprofit Explainer Videos, which use animation to inspire audiences to take action!

Let's begin!

  1. 25 Best NonProfit Explainer Videos
    1. Forest Professionals BC
    2. Jewish Palm Beach
    3. Plastic Change: “Fin City”
    4. PGIO: Problem Gambling
    5. HIAS: For The Refugees
    6. Community Futures: "What If"
    7. Charity Water
    8. Downtown Raleigh Alliance
    9. Wheels for Wishes
    10. Exodus Cry
    11. Cancer Research Institute
    12. Spatial Equity NYC
    13. A Short History of Nightingale
    14. Doctors Without Borders
    15. Great Lakes Cormorants
    16. Bliss Baby Charity: The Impossible Hug
    17. The Girl Effect
    18. Plastic Pollution Coalition
    19. Letters Foundation
    20. UNESCO
    21. Fight for Survival
    22. American Cancer Society
    23. City of Hope
    24. American Red Cross
    25. IRC
  2. Why Use Animated Nonprofit Videos?
  3. Types of Nonprofit Explainer Videos
  4. How Fundraising Videos Inspire Action

25 Inspiring Nonprofit Organisation Videos

This list encompasses some of the best explainer videos for nonprofits you'll ever come across.

1. Forest Professionals BC: One of the Best Nonprofit Videos That Inspires Environmental Action

 

This video boldly breaks the fourth wall, delving into universally relatable emotions. 

Our 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.

In a fictional testimonial video style, it’s another great example of non profit video storytelling and one of the best non-profit organization videos we’ve created to date.

Using powerful testimonials and a compelling story to bring to life a human story and important cause, this one ranks among our top success stories. 

Sure, filming with all those locations, animals, and casts would've cost a pretty penny, but with animation, the sky's the limit—and the explainer video cost does it all!

2. How Storytelling Turned Jewish Palm Beach’s Message Into One of the Best Fundraising Videos

 

Not to brag, but this is a video we made for a non-profit.  

When it comes to nonprofit video production, few examples demonstrate the power of emotional storytelling better than Jewish Palm Beach’s fundraising campaign. This beautifully crafted video shows how sincerity, empathy, and purpose-driven messaging can turn viewers into donors.

We helped Jewish Palm Beach genuinely convince their audience to donate to their cause with this nonprofit fundraising video

At its heart, this project aimed to go beyond awareness—it was about connection. The story centers around community, compassion, and hope, showing how Jewish Palm Beach continues to make a tangible impact in the lives of those in need. Through purposeful narration, heartfelt visuals, and thoughtful pacing, this video delivers a message that doesn’t just inform—it inspires action.

What makes it one of the best fundraising videos is its authenticity. There’s no flashy production or overused emotional tropes—just genuine storytelling that reflects the organization’s mission to create a better tomorrow. The result? A video that not only drives donations but also strengthens the emotional bond between the organization and its supporters.

It’s always a joy to create videos for nonprofits for organizations trying to keep it clean for a better tomorrow.

And what better call-to-action exists than that? 

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!

3. Plastic Change’s “Fin City”: A Masterclass in Nonprofit Video Storytelling

 

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.

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 grizzly murders as a reminder that aquatic life is helpless to solve this problem.

Without needing to drop statistics or facts, the video merely depicts the cruel ways pollution affects life under the sea.

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 just perfect for going viral on social media and more.

The 3D animation had to not only make this underwater world believable but also shine a light on the problem, all without ever mentioning it.

The clear video call-to-action (CTA) is cleverly integrated to make a powerful emotional connection with its target audience, making it engaging and memorable.

4. Breaking the Stigma: PGIO’s Entry Among the Best Nonprofit Commercials

 

The Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario shows just how damaging addiction of any kind can be.

By understanding and showing how gambling addictions can be more than just a lack of self-control.

By exposing the psychological aspects and how they are the ones who can be trusted to deal with victims of problem gambling, this nonprofit explainer video by PGIO wins trust instantly.

The solution being their expert counseling means you are never in the dark as to how they function.

On a technical level, this nonprofit video production is beautifully directed with dynamic color palettes, dramatic animation, and visuals to represent the effects of problem gambling and how they can help people recover.

This restores faith and excites the viewer for the future of this organization through its video content. It’s one of the best nonprofit videos we’ve ever seen.

The CTA is not only meant for donors but for people suffering from problem gambling itself.

5. HIAS’s Emotional Animation Sets a Benchmark for Nonprofit Explainer Videos

 

A nonprofit explainer video that is sure to make you tear up, the charity HIAS uses non profit video storytelling to speak about its mission spanning over a century, to rescue those who don’t have homes in their homeland.

The inspirational fundraising video covers what the organization seeks to achieve and reaffirms the viewer about their long-standing values and principles.

By telling their compelling story about how they help refugees of all sorts, 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.

This great video has stunning 2D animation with a striking color palette, with animation and transitions which make it feel more like an award-winning short film.

The narrator speaks with immense emotional depth in order to show the organization’s impact in rescuing those in need, delivering a clear call-to-action to prospective beneficiaries and potential donors for nonprofit fundraising.

6. From “What If” to Real Impact: Community Futures’ Nonprofit Video Production Success

 

Community Futures does not need to state how boring a world without innovators would be, it simply asks what the world would look like if no one asked: “what if?”

Their non profit videos answer this rhetorical question by showing how lifeless society would be if there weren't advancements made with how we live our lives.

Community Futures wanted to explain how they want to bring life to rural communities and small businesses, and what they’re doing to help make this happen.

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.

7. The Best Fundraising Video Examples Combine Empathy and Action — Charity Water Shows How

 

Charity Water brings the issue of water shortage right to your doorstep.

This powerful charity explainer is one of the best fundraising video examples of how to inspire empathy through simplicity. It doesn’t rely on statistics or lengthy explanations to highlight the struggle of living without clean water — it shows it.

When the video finally introduces hard facts, it does so with precision, comparing unsafe water to other real-world dangers. This clever framing helps audiences grasp just how severe the issue is.

Visually, the animation is bright and inviting, striking a balance between engagement and gravity. Rather than dwelling solely on despair, the film pivots to hope — illustrating the organization’s mission to provide clean water to millions and spark community development.

And, in a standout moment of authenticity, the video invites donors to “believe again.” By transparently showing how every contribution is used, it stands as a benchmark for fundraising video examples that build trust and move viewers from awareness to action.Not enough examples? Check out
5 Animated NGO Videos by TED To Inspire Your Fundraising Campaign!

8. Promotional Videos for Nonprofits That Speak Volumes Without Words — The Downtown Raleigh Alliance Example

 

Check out this whiteboard animation video—no voiceover needed, yet it speaks volumes! 

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.

9. From Imagination to Impact — Wheels for Wishes Perfects Animated Donation Videos

 

Imagine a world seen through the eyes of a child—a place where even the toughest topics get a whimsical makeover. 

In this short animated gem, a kid's perspective turns a tale of illness into a rockstar fantasy! 

With Wheels for Wishes steering the ship, the innocent narration adds an extra layer of humor, highlighting the gap between kid logic and grown-up understanding. 

It's proof positive that a killer explainer video script can turn a video into pure gold.

10. Best Nonprofit Videos That Give a Voice to the Voiceless — Exodus Cry Leads the Way

 

This nonprofit explainer video by Exodus Cry dives deep into the harsh realities of human trafficking and prostitution, posing the question: "Is prostitution really a choice?" 

It delves into how women are often coerced into believing it's their only option. 

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 prostitution.

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11. How Cancer Research Institute Used Animated Nonprofit Video Storytelling to Demystify Immunotherapy

 

Discussing cancer isn't a walk in the park. 

But leave it to the Cancer Research Institute to make it enlightening and entertaining! 

Their animated not for profit video 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.

12. How Animation and Sound Alone Made Spatial Equity NYC a Standout in Nonprofit Video Production

 

Transportation Alternatives nails it by illustrating the significance of spatial equity using only animations, typography, and mesmerizing sound effects

When words fall short, visuals take the lead — and Transportation Alternatives proved this masterfully with their project Spatial Equity NYC. This campaign redefines what nonprofit videos can achieve, using only animation, typography, and immersive sound design to communicate a complex urban issue without a single spoken word.

Created in collaboration with a nonprofit video production company that understands the art of minimalist storytelling, the video turns abstract ideas like spatial equity into something visceral and visually striking. Each frame is carefully crafted to evoke emotion, showing how accessibility, fairness, and city design intersect in the everyday lives of New Yorkers.

Who says you need a voiceover to make a statement?

At Broadcast2World, we help nonprofits like Transportation Alternatives transform important missions into unforgettable visual stories—driving awareness, empathy, and measurable impact through the power of video.

13. From Migration to Conservation — A Short History of Nightingale as a Model for Nonprofit Organization Videos

 

"A Short History of the Nightingale" takes you 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. 

Clocking in at over three minutes, this video proves that sometimes longer is better, offering a deep dive into complex topics. 

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.

14. Yemen: Alarming Rise in Child Malnutrition — One of the Best Fundraising Videos That Demand Action

 

While a good voiceover can be the cherry on top of a short video, sometimes the visuals steal the show all on their own. 

But when you're treading into sensitive territory like in this nonprofit video by Doctors without Borders, subtitles become your trusty sidekick, ensuring your message hits home loud and clear. 

This heartbreaking yet beautifully produced film stands as one of the best nonprofit videos ever created to raise awareness about the growing child malnutrition crisis in Yemen. It captures the devastating human toll through raw, authentic storytelling that goes beyond numbers — focusing instead on the faces and emotions of those suffering in silence.

What makes it one of the best fundraising videos is its balance of empathy and urgency. Rather than overwhelming audiences with statistics, it connects on a deeply personal level — driving compassion that converts into tangible action. Each frame carries the weight of a plea for help, motivating viewers to donate and support organizations working on the ground.

Because in the world of visuals, sometimes silence speaks volumes.

15. The Art of Impactful NGO Videos — Great Lakes Cormorants’ Fight for Wildlife Protection

 

Prepare to stun and astonish your audience with the shock and awe marketing technique! 

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. 

It's 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.

16. The Impossible Hug by Bliss Baby Charity: A Heartfelt Entry Among the Best Fundraising Video Examples

 

This nonprofit organization video by Bliss Baby Charity takes a unique approach, starting with lighthearted scenes of hugging and even getting Godzilla in on the action.

But as the story unfolds, this short film delivers a poignant message about the challenges faced by parents of premature babies — a struggle often overlooked yet deeply human.

Clocking in at just 47 seconds, it stands as one of the most moving fundraising video examples in recent memory. The video captures the emotional and financial toll of prematurity, showing how fragile beginnings can reshape entire families’ lives.

What makes it truly powerful is its restraint. With no background music or dialogue, the silence mirrors the delicate environment of neonatal care — where every breath, every heartbeat, and every small victory matters.

This minimalist approach turns the film into more than just a campaign; it’s a moment of reflection. It reminds viewers why fundraising videos hold such power — they connect empathy with action, inspiring audiences to not just feel, but to give.

 

17. Nonprofit Explainer Videos That Inspire Generations — Inside The Girl Effect’s Global Message

 

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 infographic video, they drive home the urgency of empowering adolescent girls to fight poverty before time runs out. 

Clocking in at over 3 minutes, it's a colorful cascade of visuals and music that packs a serious punch.

18. Animated Nonprofit Video Production That Educates Without Preaching — Plastic Pollution Coalition’s Approach

 

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 that’s what Plastic Pollution Coalition did. 

Enter animation—the stealthy superhero of storytelling. 

With a wink and a nod, it dishes out relatable tales with a side of understanding, leaving guilt trips at the door.

19. The Power of Authentic Storytelling in Nonprofit Commercials — The Letters Foundation Example

 

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite nonprofits? 

Take a peek at The Letters Foundation's video! Founded by none other than the Buffet siblings, this organization is all about lending a helping hand to those in need. 

With a style that's as charming as it is easy on the eyes, it's the perfect match for this do-gooder brand. 

Who would have thought that philanthropy could exude such a delightful charm?

20. Promotional Videos for Nonprofits That Connect Humanity — UNESCO’s Inspiring Message


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. 

But 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.

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21. Fight for Survival: One of the Most Inspiring Fundraising Videos That Proves Less Is More

 

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. 

With its clean animation, it's all about keeping your eyes on the prize—no distractions, just the straight-up message.

22. American Cancer Society Shows How Nonprofit Explainer Videos Can Be Both Fun and Informative

 

This animated nonprofit video is 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 a cautionary tale, they're showing 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. 

23. City of Hope: A Brilliant Example of Nonprofit Video Production Using Whiteboard Animation

 

Look how the City of Hope tackles touchy topics and drives home safety savvy.

Whiteboard animation is your secret sauce! 

When it comes to nonprofit video production, clarity and emotion go hand in hand—and City of Hope’s whiteboard animation proves it perfectly. This video tackles sensitive health and safety topics with precision and empathy, turning what could be complex or uncomfortable messages into approachable, actionable lessons.

This sleek and snappy style cuts through the clutter, keeping viewers glued to the goods without any unnecessary frills. 

Through sleek, hand-drawn visuals and straightforward storytelling, the animation captures attention immediately and keeps it. Each frame is designed for maximum clarity, ensuring viewers not only understand the message but remember it. There are no unnecessary frills—just clean lines, purposeful pacing, and messaging that sticks.

It's like delivering a message with laser precision—clean, crisp, and totally unforgettable.

At Broadcast2World, we help mission-driven organizations like City of Hope amplify their impact through strategic video storytelling. Whether it’s awareness, education, or fundraising, our nonprofit video production team ensures your message lands with authenticity and purpose.

24. How the American Red Cross Created One of the Best Fundraising Videos on Sickle Cell Awareness

The first example in our list of the best fundraising videos comes from the renowned nonprofit organization, American Red Cross.

It takes a medical animation route to bring awareness about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Rather than relying on complex data or emotional appeals alone, the Red Cross uses clear visual storytelling to help viewers understand the condition and the urgent need for blood donations to support patients living with SCD.

What makes this one of the best nonprofit videos is its simplicity and sincerity. The narrative avoids technical jargon or overcomplicated explanations, instead focusing on empathy, education, and hope.

The visuals are purposeful and human-centered, allowing viewers to connect with the cause on a personal level.

Through this video, the American Red Cross demonstrates how the right blend of animation and emotion can turn awareness into action — inspiring people to donate blood and make a tangible impact in the lives of those affected by Sickle Cell Disease.

25. Nonprofit Videos That Go Beyond Donations — Lessons from the IRC’s Afghanistan Story

The next example on our list of the best fundraising videos comes from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) — a nonprofit dedicated to helping people whose lives have been shattered by conflict and disaster.

This remarkable piece of storytelling takes viewers straight to Afghanistan, offering a first-hand glimpse into life after the Taliban takeover in 2021. What makes it stand out among other nonprofit videos is its unfiltered honesty — using real testimonials from teenage girls in Kabul who share their fears, hopes, and everyday struggles under the new regime.

But what truly elevates this fundraising video is its responsible use of animation. By using animation to visualize these girls’ experiences, the IRC managed to tell authentic stories without revealing their identities, ensuring their safety while maintaining emotional depth.

This thoughtful approach not only builds empathy but also reinforces trust — a key ingredient in effective nonprofit video storytelling. It shows that the IRC’s commitment goes far beyond raising funds; it’s about raising awareness and advocating for human dignity.

Through its blend of realism and compassion, the IRC’s campaign stands as one of the best fundraising videos of its kind — a powerful reminder that honesty, sensitivity, and purpose-driven storytelling are what make nonprofit videos truly impactful.

Why Use Animated Nonprofit Videos?

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. 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.

Types of Nonprofit Explainer Videos

Nonprofit explainer videos come in a variety of styles—each tailored to communicate your mission clearly and connect with your audience emotionally. Here are some of the most effective types:

  1. Mission Explainer Videos
    These videos tell the story of your nonprofit’s purpose, values, and the impact you’re creating. Perfect for homepages and awareness campaigns.
  2. Fundraising Explainer Videos
    Created to drive donations, these videos highlight specific campaigns, show real-world impact, and include clear calls to action for supporters.
  3. Volunteer Recruitment Videos
    Simplify the sign-up process and motivate people to get involved by showcasing the experience and outcomes of volunteering.
  4. Animated Impact Reports
    Turn complex data and results into engaging visual stories that show donors exactly how their contributions made a difference.
  5. Advocacy & Awareness Videos
    Use these to break down policies, raise awareness on social issues, or mobilize your audience to take action.

No matter the goal, nonprofit explainer videos help simplify your message and inspire your audience to support your cause.

How Nonprofit Fundraising Videos Inspire Action

The best nonprofit fundraising video examples do more than just ask for donations—they tell compelling stories that move audiences to act. These videos highlight real problems, show the tangible impact of support, and emotionally connect with viewers through strong visuals and narratives.

Whether it’s showcasing a child’s journey in an education program or revealing the effects of a disaster relief effort, these videos help potential donors understand why their support matters. By combining storytelling with a clear call to action, fundraising videos create urgency and trust—two key factors in driving conversions.

If you want to turn interest into impact, look no further than animated nonprofit fundraising videos that inspire belief and action.

Create Your Own Nonprofit Animation Video

Ready to turn your mission into a message that moves people?

A well-crafted nonprofit animation video can help you explain complex issues, build emotional connections, and drive real impact. Whether you're raising awareness, boosting donations, or recruiting volunteers, an animated explainer video can do the heavy lifting—visually, emotionally, and effectively.

At Broadcast2World, we specialize in creating custom animated videos for nonprofits that not only tell stories but spark action.

👉 Let’s bring your story to life. Book your free video strategy call today.

 

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