Hi — I’m Shawn Reeves.
I help nonprofits and mission-driven organizations tell their stories in ways that move people to care, to give, and to act.
For more than 20 years, I’ve worked at the intersection of writing, strategy, and storytelling — translating big ideas, complex programs, and ambitious visions into clear, persuasive language. My focus has always been on helping organizations explain not just what they do, but why they do it.
Most of my work lives behind the scenes: donor proposals, cases for support, impact reports, leadership messages, and the communications that build trust and momentum. I’m equal parts editor, strategist, and collaborator — comfortable in a brainstorming session, working with other creatives, or deep in the weeds of a draft when it counts.
If you need someone who can take scattered ideas and turn them into compelling narratives that advance your mission, you’re in the right place.
Services
I specialize in communications that help nonprofits raise money, build relationships, and strengthen their voice.
Campaign Cases for Support
Every successful campaign begins with a powerful story. I develop clear, persuasive cases for support that articulate vision, impact, and urgency — giving donors a reason to believe and invest.
Donor Reports & Stewardship Communications
Impact reports, annual reports, gift acknowledgments, and customized donor updates that show gratitude and demonstrate real-world results. I help turn outcomes and data into narratives that feel meaningful.
Major Gift Proposals
Thoughtful, strategic proposals tailored to individual donors and foundations — written to align with their interests, priorities, and values.
Editorial Strategy for Nonprofits
I help organizations think more clearly about messaging: what to say, who to say it to, and how to build a narrative that’s consistent across channels and campaigns.
Story Development & Feature Writing
Profiles, program stories, and leadership communications that bring your mission to life through real people and real outcomes.
Editing & Message Refinement
High-level editing that strengthens structure, sharpens voice, and makes the message land with confidence and clarity.
Voice & Style Guidance
Lightweight style guidance and voice alignment for teams who want communications that sound cohesive and unmistakably “you.”
Clients
I’ve partnered with a wide range of organizations working to improve lives and communities around the world, including:
Emory University
CARE
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Habitat for Humanity International
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Women in Digital Transformation
I frequently collaborate with development teams, executive leaders, and designers to ensure the final product is both strategically sound and beautifully presented.
Samples
Here are a few recent examples that reflect my approach to storytelling, editorial structure, and mission-focused narrative:
True North – Emory School of Law Feature
Strengthening Community – Emory Magazine
Improving Human Health – Emory Magazine
Ask me about other samples and publication types not included here.
References
What colleagues say about working with me
“Shawn is a true writer’s writer. He respects the power of words and knows how to use them to full effect for good. Shawn proved time and again that I had done myself a great favor in hiring him.”
— Jill Claflin, Communications Consultant
— Jill Claflin, Communications Consultant
“Always flexible, pragmatic, and at the base of it all, a brilliant writer. What really sets Shawn apart is that he is simply a wonderful colleague — ambitious, intelligent, loyal, and inspiring.”
— Brett Boatright, Creative Director, Georgia Institute of Technology
— Brett Boatright, Creative Director, Georgia Institute of Technology
These reflections capture how I approach every project: with craft, collaboration, and a commitment to helping organizations communicate at their very best.
Additional references and work samples available upon request.
Let’s Talk
Every organization has important stories waiting to be told. I’d love to help you tell yours.
Shawn Reeves
Editorial Strategy & Nonprofit Communications