Program one-pagers condense complex initiatives into single-page overviews accessible to diverse audiences. According to nonprofit communications research, organizations using standardized one-pagers report 45% faster partnership development and more efficient donor conversations than those without concise program materials. One-pagers enable quick understanding for donors, partners, media, and community members.
What 7 Sections Must Every Program One-Pager Include?
Program One-Pager Structure
| # | Section | Length | Key Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Title + Tagline | 1-2 lines | Program name, mission tagline, logo |
| 2 | Problem Statement | 2-3 sentences | Need with local data, urgency |
| 3 | Program Description | 3-5 sentences | What, who, how, when |
| 4 | Target Population | 2-3 sentences | Who served, eligibility, scale |
| 5 | Outcomes/Impact | 3-4 bullets | Measurable results with numbers |
| 6 | Call to Action | 2-3 sentences | How to engage (donate, partner, volunteer) |
| 7 | Contact Info | 3-4 lines | Name, phone, email, website |
Program One-Pager Template
**[ORGANIZATION LOGO]** # Youth Leadership Academy *Developing Tomorrow's Community Leaders* --- **THE CHALLENGE** Only 15% of low-income youth in our county access leadership development opportunities, limiting their potential for community engagement and career success. **OUR SOLUTION** Youth Leadership Academy provides year-long intensive training for 50 high school students annually, including monthly workshops, mentoring relationships, and community service projects. Participants develop public speaking, project management, and civic engagement skills through hands-on experience. **WHO WE SERVE** Students ages 14-18 from families earning below 200% of poverty line across three school districts. Since 2018, we've graduated 300 youth leaders. **OUR IMPACT** • 95% of participants graduate high school (vs. 82% district average) • 80% enroll in college or vocational training • 90% report increased confidence in leadership abilities • Graduates log 5,000+ community service hours annually **GET INVOLVED** We seek corporate sponsors ($5,000+), volunteer mentors (4 hrs/month), and individual donors to expand program capacity. Your investment develops the next generation of community leaders. --- **Contact:** Jane Smith, Program Director (555) 123-4567 | jane@youthleaders.org | youthleaders.org
How to Write Compelling Problem Statements
Formula: Local statistic + who suffers + why it matters
**Example:** "Only 15% of low-income youth in our county access leadership development opportunities [LOCAL STAT], limiting their potential for community engagement and career success [WHY IT MATTERS]."
Keep it brief: 2-3 sentences maximum. Problem creates context; program description provides solution.
Design Elements That Make One-Pagers Work
Design Checklist
| Element | Best Practice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Visual hierarchy | Large headers, consistent fonts | Guides reader flow |
| White space | Generous margins, section spacing | Prevents overwhelm |
| Photos | 1 strong image of participants | Makes abstract concrete |
| Pull quotes | Key stat in callout box | Catches skimmers |
| Branding | Logo, colors match org materials | Builds recognition |
Adapt One-Pagers for Different Audiences
Audience-Specific Customizations
| Audience | Emphasis | Call to Action |
|---|---|---|
| Donors | Impact, ROI ("$1,000 serves 5 students") | Give now, funding levels |
| Partners | Collaboration opportunities, mutual benefits | Sponsor, provide internships |
| Participants | Benefits, eligibility, how to apply | Apply by [date] |
| Media | Newsworthy stats, story angles | Contact for interview |
What to Avoid in Program One-Pagers
- Too much text: If you need 8-point font, you have too much content
- Missing call to action: After reading, people should know what to do next
- Jargon: Test on someone unfamiliar with your work
- Low-quality photos: Blurry or irrelevant images undermine professionalism
- Outdated data: Update statistics and outcomes annually
Frequently Asked Questions About Program One-Pagers
How is a one-pager different from a brochure?
One-pagers are single-page, focused on one program or initiative. Brochures are often multi-page or tri-fold covering the whole organization. One-pagers are ideal for program-specific conversations and leave-behinds.
Should I have different one-pagers for different programs?
Yes—each major program deserves its own one-pager. Create a standard template, then customize for each program. Consistent design across programs strengthens organizational branding.
How often should I update my one-pager?
Annually at minimum, immediately if major changes occur. Update outcome data, participation numbers, and dates yearly. Date-stamp versions ("January 2026") to prevent distributing outdated materials.
What file format should I use?
PDF for digital distribution and printing; keep editable source file (InDesign, Canva, etc.). PDFs maintain formatting across devices. Some organizations also create web-optimized versions for email that load faster.
Can AI help create program one-pagers?
Yes, AI tools like River's Program One-Pager Generator create structured summaries. Input your program details, outcomes, and target audience. The AI generates properly formatted one-pagers with all 7 sections. Add photos and branding, then distribute.
Program one-pagers are versatile tools that condense complex initiatives into accessible summaries. Use River's Program One-Pager Generator to create professional materials that win partners and donors faster.