Last month I was among thousands who helplessly watched a country fall to its knees. The graphic images that were being played nonstop across my television screen of Haiti, hours after the earthquake, were heart wrenching. Seeing family members searching for loved ones and trying to pull survivors from piles of concrete rubble are scenes that I will remember for the rest of my life. The outpouring of support from not only our country, but nations around the world, was unprecedented.

As the week went on, I realized why the general population was feeling the impact of the earthquake on such a profound level, giving millions of dollars in donations in just a few days to help in the relief effort. With television stations reporting hourly on the events taking place in Haiti and giving us a first hand look at what it was like for the Haitians as the hours passed, the reporters were able to put a face on the suffering. As we sat in the comforts of our home, we put ourselves in the Haitian’s shoes and imagined how it would feel if it was our own son or daughter that was injured or lost and in need of medical assistance and basic supplies.

Working with non-profit organizations, I continually stress the importance of telling a story and putting a face on the organization and events. I realized last month that the Haiti earthquake was a perfect example of how powerful sharing the stories of the people you are helping and the vital roll it plays in drawing in necessary donations.

As you promote your cause, make sure to share the stories of the positive impacts that have been made due to the efforts of your organization. As volunteers go out to solicit donations, have them tell a story about how they personally were motivated to join as a volunteer and how the money that the donor is contributing has helped someone live a fuller life. On your website, share a video testimony of someone who has been impacted by your organization. By doing all of these things, the donors will feel your cause on a more personal level and will be able to see first hand the way their donation has helped someone.

The earthquake in Haiti was a tragedy, but from the ashes I feel that we can all learn a lesson. In times of need people will rise to the occasion. Share your message and story so that you can continue to provide the services and support that help make this world a brighter place.

Jenny Winchell is Co-Founder and CEO for JenSea Solutions, a strategic fundraising firm. She can be reached at Jenny@JenSeaSolutions.com and for more information visit http://www.info.jenseasolutions.com/.