Problem

Community foundations have existed throughout the world for years but are relatively new to Alaska. Similarly, Alaskans are not familiar with endowing their assets to serve the greater good for years to come. ACF needed to increase awareness of its services to a statewide audience on a shoestring budget. It was important to convey a sense of the depth of services to numerous audiences in a straightforward manner. As the first communications professional on staff, there were many projects to tackle in the first year.

Solution

Establish a consistent look, feel and tone to all ACF communication from printed product sheets to thank you notes, annual reports and PowerPoint presentations. Graphic standards were established and conveyed to staff and volunteers. A color-coding system meant audiences began to establish colors with the seven types of funds offered. This color palette carried throughout the Foundation’s activities.

Results

The branding pieces combined with some regular communication to key audiences creating more awareness for the Foundation and its role in philanthropy. After the preliminary pieces were completed, a strategic year-round communications plan was designed for additional consistency of message.