8 Simple Ideas for Instagram Videos for Your Non-Profit Organization


Instagram revolutionized its popular mobile app by introducing 15-second videos, melding the world of image-sharing and short-form video into one dynamic platform. 


With a staggering 150 million users worldwide, of which 75 million are daily active users, Instagram has become a virtual haven for creative expression and impactful storytelling


Video content has seen significant growth among its vast user base, accounting for 6% of all Instagram posts in a mere six months since its introduction. 

 

The immediacy and share ability of Instagram videos, with approximately 9 out of 10 videos being shared on Facebook, have turned this medium into a potent tool for establishing a deep emotional connection to various causes and initiatives. 


Enterprising non-profit organizations have already embraced Instagram's potential, venturing into the realm of Instagram videos with astounding results. However, before diving headfirst into this visual storytelling journey, thoughtful consideration of a few key questions is crucial: 


  1. What upcoming events does your non-profit organization want to promote? Aligning video content with these events can amplify their impact and reach. 
  2. How can videos effectively showcase your non-profit's services, products, or events? You can breathe life into your organization's offerings by harnessing the video's visual appeal. 
  3. In what ways can video strengthen the bond between your stakeholders and the noble cause you champion? Instagram videos hold the potential to forge a deeper connection between your audience and your mission. 
  4. What compelling story can a short-form video tell? Craft a clear, concise message that resonates with your viewers, leaving a lasting impression. 


From showcasing inspiring exhibits to unveiling the vibrant personalities behind your non-profit's brand, Instagram video offers many possibilities to further your cause. It is a powerful fundraising tool, a vessel to raise awareness, and an educational outlet to enlighten your audience. 


Are you eager to leverage Instagram Video as a transformative marketing tool for your non-profit? Here are eight easily implementable ideas that will breathe life into your organization's first foray into video; 



1. A Glimpse of Your Organization In a Video  

In today's digital age, storytelling has evolved into a captivating blend of visuals and emotions, offering a powerful platform for non-profits to showcase their impact. 


The Best Friends Animal Society serves as an exemplar, ingeniously crafting an emotional Instagram video PSA that tugged at heartstrings and garnered attention. With a compelling pitch at the end, they proclaimed, "Everyone Needs a Best Friend Like Tuna. Let's Save Them All." This single video encapsulated their cause's essence and created a lasting impression. 


While not every video requires the meticulous production seen in Best Friends Animal Society's masterpiece, any non-profit organization can leverage the potency of Instagram to create an impactful 15-second PSA. The key lies in embracing the visual power of this social media platform and deftly combining photographs and videos to weave a captivating narrative that resonates with viewers on a personal level. 


Imagine capturing the heartwarming moments of your organization's endeavors, from heartwarming stories of rescued animals finding forever homes to heartening scenes of volunteers actively contributing to your mission. 

By seamlessly blending photos and videos, you can create a montage that tugs at heartstrings and reinforces the undeniable need for your cause. 


The magic of a well-crafted PSA lies in its ability to evoke emotions, whether empathy, joy, or hope. Showcasing the faces behind your organization, both human and animal, brings authenticity and relatability to the forefront. Viewers are more likely to connect with real-life experiences, nurturing a deeper sense of empathy and encouraging them to support your cause. 


Moreover, remember that brevity can be a virtue. In the world of Instagram, concise storytelling is king. A 15-second window may seem limited, but it challenges you to distill your organization's essence into a potent message that lingers in the minds of your audience. 


As you create your impactful PSA, explore the art of visual juxtaposition. Pair heartwarming images with emotionally charged videos, allowing each frame to complement the next seamlessly. Engage your audience's imagination, immersing them in a visual journey that leaves a lasting imprint. 


Let the PSA be more than a promotional tool; instead, consider it an invitation to join a movement that stands for something greater than oneself. Captivate your audience by vividly portraying your organization's values and dedication to the cause. 


2. Creating Videos for Holidays  

When the holiday season approaches, it brings with it a unique opportunity for non-profit organizations to infuse their online presence with a dash of festive cheer. The San Diego Zoo embraced this spirit wholeheartedly by crafting an instant Halloween classic Instagram video that featured adorable animals delightfully munching on pumpkins. 


This creative and endearing approach captivated viewers and showcased the organization's lighthearted personality. 


You don't need an extravagant budget or elaborate production team to spread holiday joy through video content. Instagram offers a perfect canvas for crafting short yet impactful videos that reflect your organization's unique charm and the festive spirit surrounding the holiday season. 


Think of the moments that define the holiday season for your non-profit. It's the joyous camaraderie among volunteers as they come together to serve a holiday meal. 


Or the heartwarming scenes of beneficiaries receiving gifts and support during these special times. By capturing these cherished moments on video, you can transport your audience into the heart of your organization's holiday celebrations. 

Imagination and creativity are the true stars of holiday-themed Instagram videos. Consider using stop-motion techniques to craft playful scenes that showcase your organization's mission in a heartwarming and entertaining way. 


Showcasing the dedication of your team as they prepare for holiday events or highlighting the impact of your organization's initiatives during the season can strike a chord with viewers. 


Additionally, a dash of humor and playfulness can go a long way. Use clever captions, animated stickers, and festive music to complement your holiday-themed video. The goal is to evoke positive emotions, spreading smiles and warmth to your online community. 


One of the most significant advantages of Instagram videos is their ability to leverage the holiday hype. Timely posts leading up to and during the holiday season can foster a sense of anticipation and excitement among your followers. Whether a countdown to a special holiday event or a series of heartwarming snippets, each video can contribute to your organization's holiday celebrations narrative. 


As you embark on your holiday video creation journey, remember to keep your audience at the heart of your content. Tailor your videos to resonate with the emotions and sentiments that define the holiday season, tapping into the shared experiences that unite us. 


3. Providing Support for a Campaign  

In August, a remarkable collaboration between The Case Foundation and the National Society of High School Scholars unfolded, igniting a back-to-school #BeFearless Instagram campaign. 



This dynamic partnership sought to celebrate courageous role models and share invaluable life lessons, empowering individuals to embrace fearlessness. 


The campaign's premise was elegantly simple yet incredibly impactful. Participants were encouraged to create videos, sharing the inspiring stories of those who taught them to be fearless. With hashtags #BeFearless and #NSHSS, these empowering stories were unleashed on Instagram, creating a ripple effect of courage and inspiration. 


Supporting a campaign on Instagram can be a powerful way for non-profit organizations to rally their community, foster meaningful connections, and amplify their message. 


By tapping into the collective power of storytelling and user-generated content, your organization can ignite engagement and raise awareness about the cause you champion. 


When embarking on a campaign support strategy, encourage your followers to share their personal experiences, highlighting how your organization's mission has impacted their lives. Prompt them to create heartfelt videos or share heartwarming anecdotes, each carrying a message that aligns with the campaign's theme. 


Utilize the full potential of Instagram's interactive features to boost engagement further. Conduct live Q&A sessions where your organization's representatives can address questions and provide real-time insights. Incorporate interactive polls, quizzes, or challenges that encourage your audience to participate and contribute to the campaign's momentum actively. 


Moreover, take the time to acknowledge and appreciate your community's contributions. Respond to comments, messages and share with genuine gratitude, fostering a sense of inclusivity and belonging. By recognizing their efforts, you inspire a deeper level of connection, transforming passive followers into passionate advocates. 


Remember, the success of campaign support lies not only in its execution but also in its ability to instill a sense of purpose and unity among your audience. Use Instagram to celebrate the collective impact achieved through your community's efforts, reinforcing that every individual can make a difference. 


Weave a consistent and compelling narrative throughout the campaign, tying it back to your organization's core mission. Showcase the tangible outcomes of the campaign's success, demonstrating how every contribution plays a vital role in realizing your shared vision. 


4. Celebrating Milestones and Achievements  

Every milestone and accomplishment in non-profit organizations represents a triumph of dedication, passion, and unwavering support from a united community. These defining moments are not merely statistics or accolades; they symbolize the very essence of progress and change brought about by those who rally behind a noble cause. 



One exemplary non-profit that has masterfully commemorated its significant milestones and achievements is the "Rise Together" Foundation. Through their tireless efforts, this organization has been dedicated to providing education and empowerment opportunities to underprivileged children in rural communities. 


The "Rise Together" Foundation recently reached a momentous milestone of constructing its 100th school in remote areas nationwide. This remarkable achievement was more than just another building; it was a beacon of hope and progress for thousands of children with access to quality education. 


To celebrate this significant moment, the foundation created a heartwarming Instagram video that showcased the joy and gratitude of the children attending the newly inaugurated school. 


The video featured testimonials from teachers, parents, and students, each expressing their heartfelt appreciation for the organization's positive impact on their lives. 


Through skillful storytelling, the "Rise Together" Foundation brought to life its transformative journey. They highlighted the challenges they faced, the unwavering support of their donors and volunteers, and the profound difference they made in the lives of countless young minds. 


The video also featured a compelling call to action, inviting their audience to join hands in furthering their mission. By sharing this celebratory moment, they inspired new supporters to be part of their journey, ensuring that their 100th school was only the beginning of even greater achievements. 


What makes this example truly remarkable is the authenticity that shines through in every frame. Instead of merely boasting about their accomplishments, the "Rise Together" Foundation recognized and celebrated the collective progress made possible by their supporters and advocates. 


Emulating such an approach, non-profit organizations can turn milestones and achievements into powerful storytelling opportunities. By acknowledging the invaluable role played by their community, they can reinforce the notion that each supporter is an integral part of the success story. 


With their visual and dynamic impact, Instagram videos offer an ideal canvas to share these moments with the world. A well-crafted video can evoke a genuine emotional response from the audience, inspiring them to become active contributors to the organization's ongoing journey. 



5. Bringing In and Educating Stakeholders  

For non-profit organizations, fostering meaningful connections with stakeholders is essential for driving awareness and support for the cause. One organization that masterfully brought in and educated its stakeholders through Instagram videos is the "Green Earth Alliance." 


As a non-profit dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainable practices, the "Green Earth Alliance" recognized the importance of engaging stakeholders and showcasing the impact of their initiatives. To achieve this, they turned to Instagram's video platform, employing 15-second videos to educate and inspire their audience. 


At their annual sustainability summit, the "Green Earth Alliance" invited prominent scientists and environmental experts to present their research and insights. During the event, they filmed short but compelling video clips of these experts passionately discussing their projects, discoveries, and environmental impact. 


These Instagram videos provided a glimpse into the groundbreaking research and created a sense of inclusion and participation. Using the event's hashtag, #GreenEarthSummit, they extended the reach of their educational content to both attendees and a global audience. 


To further enhance the educational experience, the organization supplemented the videos with captivating captions that summarized the key takeaways and encouraged further exploration. They also leveraged Instagram's Stories feature to create engaging highlights, allowing stakeholders to access the content beyond the event's duration. 


In the spirit of continuous learning, the "Green Earth Alliance" also encouraged their audience to share their thoughts and questions about the research presented. Through interactive Q&A sessions, they nurtured an environment of open dialogue and collaboration, deepening the connection between their organization and stakeholders. 


Beyond conferences and events, the "Green Earth Alliance" consistently utilized Instagram videos to showcase ongoing projects and initiatives. They provided behind-the-scenes glimpses of their conservation efforts, illustrating the dedication of their team and volunteers to preserving natural habitats. 


By creatively using 15-second interviews with field researchers, they brought stakeholders closer to the impact of their support. Through these videos, viewers experienced the tangible results of their contributions, motivating them to become even more engaged in the organization's mission. 


6. Creating Anticipation for an Event  

As a non-profit, events serve as vibrant milestones that bring communities together and amplify the impact of their mission. When creating anticipation for an event, Instagram emerges as a potent tool to spark excitement and curiosity among attendees and potential participants. 



Drawing inspiration from renowned institutions like The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and The MFA Houston, non-profit organizations can leverage Instagram videos to set the stage for their upcoming events and celebrations. 


Imagine the scenario of a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through educational initiatives. As they approach their annual "Education for All" gala, they seize the opportunity to craft an energetic Instagram video that encapsulates the essence of the event. 


In this captivating video, snippets of previous galas are artfully woven together, capturing the joyous laughter, heartfelt speeches, and uplifting moments shared during past celebrations. The video's background score sets the tone with excitement and nostalgia that resonates with the organization's audience. 


Accompanying the video is a compelling caption, inviting viewers to be part of a transformative evening that celebrates the power of education. Using hashtags such as #EducationForAll and #GalaGlam, they extend the reach of their message, encouraging followers to share their excitement and anticipation. 


Moreover, they harness Instagram's interactive features to build a sense of engagement leading up to the event. They conduct live Q&A sessions with key speakers and guests, providing a sneak peek into what attendees can expect. Through polls and quizzes, they involve their audience in decision-making aspects of the gala, fostering a sense of shared ownership. 


Similarly, non-profit organizations can create buzz around time-sensitive events like art installations or limited-time exhibits. Leveraging Instagram videos, they provide a visual teaser of the upcoming spectacle, leaving viewers intrigued and eager to witness it firsthand. 


For instance, an environmental conservation organization could use a 15-second Instagram video to showcase the magnificent landscapes in an upcoming photography exhibition. The video transitions from one breathtaking shot to another, accompanied by captions that reveal the event's date and location. 


As the event draws near, the organization builds anticipation through Instagram Stories, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of the preparation process and exclusive interviews with the photographers. They use the "countdown" sticker to excite followers, reminding them of the approaching date. 


7. Fundraising Assistance  

Fundraising is a vital cornerstone that fuels non-profit missions and sustains their noble efforts. Instagram emerges as a powerful ally, offering a platform for creating impactful video appeals that resonate deeply with supporters and potential donors. 


One outstanding example of this fundraising prowess is showcased by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids, an HIV/AIDS fundraising and grant making organization. 


During December, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids harnessed the power of Instagram to create a compelling series of fundraising video appeals. Collaborating with renowned Broadway actors, they ingeniously crafted videos that touched the hearts of their audience and inspired a surge of support for their cause. 


Each video featured a Broadway actor passionately articulating their connection to the organization's mission. Whether it was sharing anecdotes of how the cause impacted their lives or expressing gratitude for the organization's tireless efforts, the videos painted a poignant picture of the impact that fundraising can achieve.

 

To further engage their audience, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids incorporated captivating visuals, showcasing the organization's initiatives and the people they served. They wove together a narrative of hope, resilience, and unity, emphasizing that each contribution played a significant role in making a difference in those affected by HIV/AIDS. 


In their captions, they artfully included compelling calls to action, urging their followers to join the movement and become part of the change. Using hashtags like #SupportHIV/AIDS, they extended the reach of their videos, fostering a sense of community and collective purpose. 


Emulating this approach, other non-profit organizations can draw upon the enthusiasm and dedication of their supporters to create equally impactful video appeals. Imagine a children's shelter that embarks on a fundraising campaign to provide better education and care for their young residents. 


They could feature heartwarming videos of children enthusiastically expressing their dreams and aspirations. These videos, accompanied by narratives of their journey at the shelter, showcase donations' transformative power in shaping these vulnerable children's future. 



Additionally, the shelter can collaborate with influential community figures, like teachers or local celebrities, to share their heartfelt testimonies on video. By weaving together diverse perspectives and experiences, the shelter's video appeals cultivate a shared sense of responsibility in improving the lives of these children. 

 

As the fundraising campaign gains momentum, the organization can use Instagram Stories to provide regular updates and milestones achieved. They may use stickers like "donate" or "swipe up" to facilitate ease of contribution, making the giving process seamless and accessible to their supporters. 



8. Influencer Partnerships  

In today's digital landscape, influencers hold the power to reach and engage vast audiences, making them valuable allies for non-profit organizations seeking to amplify their message. By forging strategic partnerships with influencers and advocates, non-profits can leverage their reach and impact to create a profound and lasting effect. 



One outstanding example of a non-profit that effectively harnessed influencer partnerships on Instagram is the "Hopeful Hearts Foundation." This organization is dedicated to supporting families affected by congenital heart defects, providing them with resources, advocacy, and emotional support. 


To expand their reach and raise awareness about congenital heart defects, the "Hopeful Hearts Foundation" collaborated with a prominent fitness influencer, well-known for their commitment to charitable causes. Through this partnership, the influencer lent their voice and platform to spread the foundation's message to their substantial following. 


The Instagram collaboration involved a heartwarming video in which the influencer shared the story of a family touched by the impact of congenital heart defects. They spoke passionately about the challenges faced by these families and the vital support provided by the "Hopeful Hearts Foundation." 


The video also showcased glimpses of the foundation's initiatives, illustrating the tangible difference made by donations and community involvement. The video resonated deeply with the audience by crafting a compelling narrative and leveraging the influencer's authenticity, evoking empathy and inspiring action. 


The partnership extended beyond the initial video, as the influencer continued to share Instagram Stories featuring interviews with families supported by the foundation. They encouraged their followers to join the cause and contribute to the foundation's efforts, turning their platform into a catalyst for positive change. 


To enhance the impact of the influencer partnership, the "Hopeful Hearts Foundation" encouraged their community to participate actively. They launched interactive challenges, urging followers to share their stories of resilience and hope. Using hashtags like #HopefulHeartsTogether, they curated a sense of unity and camaraderie among their supporters. 


In addition to influencers, the "Hopeful Hearts Foundation" collaborated with renowned medical professionals and experts in the field of cardiology. Instagram Live sessions featuring these experts allowed their audience to have their questions answered and gain valuable insights into congenital heart defects. 


Emulating this approach, other non-profit organizations can identify influencers whose values align with their mission. By co-creating content that blends authenticity with the organization's message, they can build an emotional connection with their audience and foster a shared purpose. 


Moreover, non-profits can expand their influencer partnerships beyond individual posts or videos. They can establish ambassador programs, inviting influencers to be long-term advocates for their cause. 


There Are Several Instagram Video Ideas For Your Non-Profit 

There are several exciting Instagram video ideas for your non-profit organization. From capturing a glimpse of your organization in action to celebrating milestones and achievements, Instagram's dynamic platform offers endless possibilities to engage and inspire your audience. 


Embrace the power of simplicity and variation in your videos. Remember to tap into the energy of holidays, create anticipation for events, provide fundraising assistance, and collaborate with influencers to amplify your message. 


With creativity, enthusiasm, and a friendly tone, you can make a significant impact and foster a community of dedicated supporters on Instagram. 


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