What better way to express the spirit and power of philanthropy than through the magic of storytelling! This intriguing event not only shared the success stories of five outstanding nonprofit professionals, but underscored the unparalleled power of storytellingin touching the hearts and minds of those who support the 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States. In an age where many funders have placed an ever-increasing emphasis on data and metrics, it is eye-opening to learn that science indicates inspirational stories are far more likely to motivate generosity than numbers. Studies of the brain have shown that compelling narratives light up the brain making potential donors highly receptive to stories that move the heart and provide a genuine struggle with which to identify. In the end, for fundraisers it’s a balancing act—providing the data that many funders require, while never forgetting that if you are seeking to ignite the spark of philanthropy—it’s all about the stories!