From Caricatures to Nonprofit Copywriting
I started my freeelancing career drawing caricatures at corporate and private events.
Back then, I was broke, booked maybe three gigs a month, and had no idea how to stand out.
So I turned to something most artists avoid like the plague: Direct response marketing.
Thats when I discovered and learned how to write effective copy. I studied it like my income depended on it... because it did.
And when I applied what I learned? Everything changed.
I went from three gigs a month to fifteen-plus. In less than 100 days.
Word got out. Other entertainers asked for help. I rewrote websites. I fixed email copy. I found my zone.
That’s how I became a copywriter.
And eventually, I found my way to nonprofits.
Why Nonprofits?
Because it’s one thing to write words that sell. It’s another to write words that save lives, feed families, protect animals, and fight injustice.
Copywriting became more than conversion—it became contribution.
I’ve spent 15+ years helping mission-driven teams cut through the noise with messaging that’s clear, emotional, and built to move people.
Nonprofits like:
Big Brothers Big Sisters
United Way
The Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer
Operation Blankets of Love
Whether you need a donor appeal that pulls in urgent gifts or a website that finally says what you’ve been trying to say for years— I help you say it better, faster, and more persuasively.
Why Clients Trust Me
I write for action. My words aren’t just nice—they work. They pull people in and push them to act.
I know this space. I’ve written for major nonprofits and scrappy startups alike.
I write for donors, not departments. I focus on the emotional hooks and human connection that actually drive giving.
"Lou was incredible to work with. He understood exactly what we needed and delivered messaging that got results. You’d be lucky to have him on a project!"
— Ellie M., Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters
A Bit More About Me
I live in Seattle with my wife, Ruthann, and our smart, sweet, and lovable 13-year-old Schnauzer mix, Gunther.
When I’m not elbow-deep in nonprofit writing projects, I’m usually:
Watching movies or listening to film scores
Reading books and graphic novels
Training in martial arts
Exploring cocktail menus and neighborhood food spots
Sketching caricatures for fun (yep, still)
Rewatching James Bond movies (don’t judge)
I believe curiosity fuels great writing—and great writing fuels impact.
Want Words That Move People?
Your nonprofit’s mission deserves more than recycled language and corporate-speak.
It deserves copy that connects, converts, and creates momentum.
Let’s make that happen.
📩 Reach out here or email me at lou@thewriterfornonprofits.com
