FUNDRAISING FILMS

Emotionally compelling fundraising videos grounded in proven donor psychology.

Since 2005, I have blended storytelling craft with deep fundraising strategy, co-authoring Secrets to Big Money Fundraising with my father, renowned campaign consultant John C. Shimer. My videos don’t just tell stories—they build trust, evoke emotion, and drive meaningful giving.

By focusing on the fundamentals—clearly defining the need, presenting a solution, showcasing results, and inspiring action—these videos help nonprofits move donors through 3 of the 5 stages of development: awareness, interest, and participation. Designed for maximum impact in minimal time, the content delivers a strong return on investment by powerfully communicating an organization’s mission and case for support.

5 STAGES OF DONOR DEVELOPMENT

AWARENESS

My potential donors know my organization exists.

PARTICIPATION

There is an exchange of information with my potential donor around my organization's case.

INTEREST

I identify my potential donor's hot buttons, their potential motives for getting involved with my organization.

INVOLVEMENT

I ask my potential donor to accept resopnsibility in some meaningful way for the success of my organization.

COMMITMENT

My potential donor is in a frame of mind to share personal resources with my organization.

5 Stages of Donor Development

PORTFOLIO

12:30

07:19

09:53

What You're Paying For (vs. a Generic Videographer)

Service Component

Fundraising expertise

Donor psychology strategy

Nonprofit sector fluency

Capital campaign alignment

Transparent flat-rate pricing

Script, shoot, and edit

Christian Shimer Provides

✅ 20+ years, co-author of Secrets to Big Money Fundraising

✅ Built-in to storytelling & structure

✅ Specialized in 501(c)(3) campaigns

✅ Videos structured to support major asks

✅ No surprises

✅ Full-service

Typical Videographer

❌ No fundraising background

❌ Rarely considered

❌ Generalist or commercial focus

❌ May not understand donor journey

❌ Often hourly + add-ons

✅ / ❌ Sometimes split roles

OPHELIA PROJECT

BEYOND BATTEN DISEASE FOUNDATION

$3K Mission Mini Package

Flat rate: $3,000 — No surprises, just storytelling that works.

What’s Included

1. Pre-Production

1-hour story strategy call
Script/outline based on core messaging
Shot planning and logistics
Access to my proven case statement framework (if fundraising)

2. Production

Up to 2 shoot days on location (up to 8 hours)
Professional camera + audio + lighting package
Direction of interviews and b-roll
On-set producer (me)

3. Post-Production

1 professionally edited video (3–5 minutes)
Includes music licensing, light motion graphics, lower-thirds
Up to 2 rounds of revisions
Delivery in HD (YouTube, website, and social formats available)

4. Final Deliverables

Main video file (.mp4 or .mov)
Optional 30-second cutdown for Instagram/Facebook
Thumbnail or social still frame
Rights for unlimited online use (no expiration)

TESTIMONIALS

SUSAN FRANCIS - CEO - THE OPHELIA PROJECT

"Ophelia Project is so fortunate to have found Christian Shimer when we did! We were at a critical time in our fundraising and awareness development – and he made all the difference for us! What a pleasure it has been to work with Christian. He is a consummate professional. As producer of all our ‘case statement’ videos, Christian not only provides filming and production excellence, he has professional expertise as a consultant in donor development. Our non-profit organization has benefited greatly from his rare combination of skills, experience and dedication. In addition to all he brings to the table, he is a genuinely nice guy. Thank you Christian for all you have done for Ophelia Project, for our organization, for our staff and board, and for me."

Call to start a conversation

(619) 333-0552‬

Secrets to Big Money Fundraising Using Video