ProofWall field notes
How nonprofits can collect testimonials
A practical testimonial collection playbook for nonprofits: when to ask, five questions, display ideas and a request message.
The right moment
After a volunteer activity or supporter programme, with a clear opt-out.
Five questions worth asking
- What motivated you to take part?
- What did the activity involve?
- Did you feel supported by the team?
- What would improve the experience?
- What would you tell a prospective volunteer?
Use one question as your wall prompt rather than making every question a mandatory field.
Where to show the answer
Volunteer information pages and programme explainers.
A request you can adapt
Hi {name}, thank you for your recent volunteer activity. Would you share a few honest words about your experience? What motivated you to take part? If you are comfortable with us publishing it, here is our short form: {collection_link}. No pressure, and thank you either way.Permission and fair presentation
Never make services conditional on a testimonial. Safeguard beneficiaries, especially children and vulnerable people.
Follow the FTC Endorsement Guides and EU Unfair Commercial Practices rules where applicable: no fake reviews, and disclose incentives or material connections. Do not condition rewards on positive feedback. Request explicit permission, keep the original meaning and make removal straightforward.
More request templates · Related collection playbook