What Nonprofits Can Learn from the “First Follower” (Shirtless Dancing Guy) Video

Shout out to my good friend Adam Lemmon, who shared the video below on LinkedIn this week. I had watched it many years ago, but had totally forgotten about it until the reminder.

If you haven't seen Derek Sivers' classic "First Follower" video, take three minutes and watch it (video below).

It's a masterclass in how movements really start—and it's never been more relevant for nonprofits than right now.

In this current climate, facing political craziness, funding cuts, and sometimes even public backlash, it can feel overwhelming to create change, keep your mission moving forward, or launch that new fundraising campaign.

The video is a powerful reminder that you don't need a crowd to get started. You just need the courage to stand up and the willingness to nurture your first few supporters.

Here are a few key takeaways for nonprofits:

• Movements Start Small: Every significant change begins with one person willing to look a little ridiculous and take a stand. In tough times, that might be your organization, a board member, or a passionate volunteer/donor.

• First Followers Matter Most: The first person to join in isn't just a supporter—they're a leader in their own right. They show others how to get involved and help legitimize your cause or campaign. Treat those early adopters as equals and partners, not just "followers."

• Momentum Grows Publicly: As more people join, the risk drops and momentum builds. Make your movement visible—celebrate your supporters, share their stories, and let others see they're not alone if they step up.

• It Only Takes a Few: Don't wait for the masses, especially in challenging times. Focus on finding and empowering your first few champions. They are the spark that can ignite something much bigger.

So, if you're feeling isolated or discouraged in this unpredictable environment, remember that every movement starts with a single step and a handful of brave followers.

Don't underestimate the power of being first—or being the first to join in.

The "first follower" lesson is gold for digital fundraising. Whether you're launching a peer-to-peer campaign or trying to boost the new funraising campaign, your first supporters are everything.

Getting those first fundraisers on board is just like finding your first followers in the video—once people see others stepping up, joining in suddenly feels safer (and more exciting).

This is the power of social proof in action: when potential donors or fundraisers see someone else taking the leap, they're far more likely to get involved themselves. This is why celebrating and highlighting your early adopters is crucial—share their stories, publicly express gratitude, and provide an easy path for others to follow in their footsteps.

And remember, digital fundraising isn't about waiting for the crowd. Start with a handful of champions who are willing to raise their hand, set up a fundraising page, and/or make that first gift. Their visible commitment can spark a movement, turning a trickle of support into a wave.

So, whether you're building a peer-to-peer team or simply looking for your next online donor, focus on nurturing those first few brave supporters. They're the ones who will help you turn momentum into a real movement.

After watching the video, ask yourself:

• Who can I be a first follower for?

• Who might be waiting to follow me?

• How can you use this in your digital fundraising this week?

2025 Nonprofit Tech for Good Survey

Do you work with a nonprofit, charity, or NGO? If yes, please share your knowledge and experience by taking the 2025 Nonprofit Tech for Good Survey!

2025 Email Marketing Statistics for Nonprofits

As you probably know, I feel email marketing is THE best channel for connecting with and nurturing your supporters. A quick review of the stats here will show you why.

Thanks,

Rich Dietz
Founder, Nonprofit R+D

PS – Struggling to make sense of your digital strategy? Need help getting those “first followers”? Let’s chat! Schedule a free call, and I’ll help you focus on what really drives results for your nonprofit.