Annual report writing season is here. For so many nonprofits this time of the year can be daunting. It happens all too often: a non-profit produces an annual report that is dry, crowded with needless financial data and, sadly, destined for someone’s trash bin. But it does not and should not be this way.

An annual report represents a golden opportunity to communicate directly with donors. It should tell the story of your organization and its people in a compelling way. It should bring your organization’s accomplishments to life. And, ultimately, it should inspire future support from donors, who are, in turn, reassured that their philanthropy is making a meaningful difference in the world — and  who may even share the report with relatives, friends and other prospective donors.

The bottom line is this: do not let your nonprofit’s annual report paint a stale, uninspiring portrait of your nonprofit’s hard work. Follow these 10 steps to create a nonprofit report that sends a powerful message to donors, volunteers and supporters.