Before the right words, the right stories

logo of StoryGardening by Rachel Zant over green-overlaid image

For 20+ years I've written heart-led fundraising copy that moves donors and raises more money. Now I help organizations like yours uncover the stories behind it, through StoryGardening.


Your best stories, gathered with care.

Introducing StoryGardening

The most effective appeals I've written over the decades have all depended on one thing: a real story from a real person.

And time and again, I've seen that the best stories are already inside your organization, waiting in the lives of the people you serve and support.

What I’ve also found is that most teams don’t need more material; they need help uncovering the stories that already exist, tending them until they're ready, and sharing them in a way that inspires support.

That's why I created StoryGardening.

What StoryGardening can bring you

A well-stocked story bank, ready to use across appeals

A process of story gathering that feels calm, not frantic

A culture of storytelling and donor appreciation

Stronger connections with your supporters