PROGRAM

When you think about the last time you were moved to support a cause, what was it that led you to take action — the statistics or the story?

In a world drowning in data, your organization's authentic stories can help cut through the noise. When a child's wish journey brings tears to a donor's eyes, when a volunteer's testimony inspires someone to sign up, when your impact statement makes a foundation write that grant check—that's the power of strategic storytelling at work.

For this session, join two experienced story tellers — Megan Stelter and Sara Engelhart — who have helped Make-A-Wish Iowa transform granted wishes into compelling narratives that opened hearts and inspired giving. We will explore practical techniques that have helped organizations raise essential funds through:

• Finding and crafting the emotional core of your mission
• Turning program experiences into inspiring narratives
• Creating story frameworks that work across all platforms

Leave this session with actionable storytelling strategies to elevate your fundraising, volunteer recruitment and community engagement.

your presenters

Megan Stelter
Account Manager, Trilix

With more than 13 years in the industry, Megan is an experienced marketing and communications professional who excels in providing strategic direction for clients, identifying and translating business objectives into marketing initiatives. Megan is a seasoned communicator who values building strong relationships, collaborating effectively with both internal and external teams to develop and execute integrated strategies and plans. Notable clients Megan has worked alongside include Make-A-Wish Iowa, University of Iowa, John Deere Financial, John Deere Power Systems, John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group, UnityPoint Health, International Association for Food Protection and many others within the non-profit, ag, healthcare, and financial services sectors. Outside of work, Megan values community involvement and puts her marketing expertise to good use for several local boards and committees.

Sara Engelhart
Senior Communications Specialist, Trilix

Sara Engelhart is a seasoned communications strategist, storyteller, and Emmy Award-winning video producer dedicated to creating meaningful connections through impactful messaging. Her experience spans corporate and nonprofit sectors, where she played a key role in nonprofit fundraising campaigns, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and cause-driven storytelling. Currently serving as a Senior Communications Specialist at Trilix, she works closely with clients to develop compelling content, strengthen media presence, and bring their stories to life. Passionate about community impact, she has led and contributed to nonprofit success by serving on various nonprofit committees throughout the metro. When she’s not collecting stories, she spends time with her family baking, biking, trying new things, and embarking on little adventures.

location/PARKING:

Note the different location for the April & May meetings. DMARC provides ample free parkingon the north side of the building.

REMINDERS:

As an AFP member, you may bring one guest annually FREE OF CHARGE to an AFP monthly education meeting. If you would like to use your free guest pass, please email Kim at afpcentraliowa@gmail.com. 

MEAL OPTIONS:

We will enjoy catering from In the Bag for this month's luncheon. Please complete this google form to make your choice between: Basic Brown Bag Turkey sandwich, Basic Brown Bag Roast Beef sandwich, Basic Brown Bag Vegetarian sandwich, Autumn River Salad, or Berry Turkey Wrap. Anyone who does not submit a lunch choice by 4/9/25 will receive the Basic Brown Bag Turkey sandwich. 

RSVP DEADLINE:

Please register and submit your lunch choice by noon on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. 

CFRE CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS:

This program is eligible for CFRE credits. To search CFRE credits for past AFP programs please visit: My Education Finder.