People relate to people, not institutions. That’s why Hillary Webb, the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation’s Fund Development Manager, thinks of fundraisers as not just facilitators of funds but as stewards of stories. In this episode, Hillary shares her helpful and actionable “Five I’s of Storytelling,” advice for sharing sensitive or negative stories, and why she doesn’t see charitable organizations as competitors.

00:41 Guest Introduction: Hillary Webb
03:45 Fundraisers: Facilitators of Funds, Stewards of Stories
06:53 Impactful Example: Sharon’s Story
09:40 The Five I's of Storytelling
13:50 Correcting Perceptions of How Healthcare is Funded
16:07 How Hillary Collects Stories
18:40 Collaboration in Atlantic Canada’s Nonprofit Sector
21:10 Sharing Sensitive or Negative Stories
27:56 The Experience For People Whose Stories Are Told
30:43 Strengthening Social Media Through Trial and Error
34:14 VRHF’s Current Needs and How to Support

Find out more about the Valley Regional Hospital Foundation

VRHF Website: vrhfoundation.ca
VRHF Facebook: facebook.com/vrhfoundation
VRHF Instagram: instagram.com/vrh_foundation

About the Atlantic IMPACT podcast

Atlantic IMPACT is a podcast that helps nonprofits across Atlantic Canada use storytelling to drive fundraising and awareness. Each episode features conversations with people working in community, sharing how story supports connection, impact, and long-term growth. Whether you're part of a nonprofit or simply care about your community, this podcast invites you to listen, reflect, and engage.

Is your organization ready to tell its story? Take the free Storytelling Readiness Quiz at collaborativecause.ca/stories.

The podcast is hosted by Tanya Wall and Michelle Samson, and is produced by Storied Places Media.