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As a volunteer who translates letters for a sponsor and children in countries like Rwanda at World Vision, I experienced the power of personal stories. Like the author says, it is true that personal stories move people’s heart more than presenting statistical data, and I believe that it is because people can easily relate to that. Providing a program like exchanging letters between a sponsor and the supported child is even more powerful because 1) it gives sponsors a feeling that donated money is used in a way he/she intended (Transparency) 2) The sponsor sees what changes can be made with donated money 3) And therefore, it gives sponsors a stronger sense of responsibility

However, the hard part is inducing people who have never donated before to the participation. In my opinion, people tend to hesitate to donate because these days donation requires more than just money. One can easily come across someone asking donation on campus, but they usually ask to fill out forms that require personal information such as phone number and email address. And more often than not, they asks for regular donation, which makes the person feel like a burden. In that respect, I believe that is what made Jane Roberts’s activity successful. What she asked was only $1, which is very easy to participate and gives no burden. It even encouraged some people to engage more with her activity. People voluntarily donated more money and actively participated. 

I understand it's urgent and every penny counts, but pushing people to donate can really push them away forever. Volunteer and donation should never be forced. Instead, we should let people know the opportunity to help others and what their little contribution can do.