MOTION

DESIGN


Using motion as a strategic communication tool to strengthen brand storytelling, engage audiences, and support organizational goals across commercial and nonprofit organizations.

— PROJECT NAME

Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio (DSANEO) Virtual Sunburst Gala Campaign


— ROLE

Creative Direction (Motion Design)

Motion Graphics

Video Editing

Storytelling

Campaign Design

Social Media Content


— DATE

2020

OVERVIEW

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the annual Sunburst Gala to transition from an in-person fundraiser to a fully virtual event, DSANEO needed a new way to connect with sponsors, donors, and the community. Motion became an essential part of the campaign, helping replace the energy and emotional connection of the live experience.


Working alongside DSANEO’s fundraising team, I led creative direction and produced a series of videos that promoted the event, recognized sponsors, communicated the organization’s mission, and reinforced the impact of donor support throughout the campaign.


RESULT: $190,000+ raised through a fully virtual fundraising campaign that I supported through motion design and creative direction.

THE CHALLENGE

Reimagine the annual Sunburst Gala as a fully virtual fundraising experience while maintaining audience engagement and preserving the sense of community that had traditionally been built through an in-person event.


The campaign needed to:

  • • Promote the annual Sunburst Gala after it transitioned from an in-person event to a virtual fundraiser due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • • Recognize sponsors whose support made the event possible.
  • • Communicate the organization’s mission and impact.
  • • Maintain audience engagement before, during, and after the event.
  • • Encourage participation and support through digital storytelling.


THE SOLUTION

Rather than relying on a dedicated video team or professional production software, I used accessible tools, free creative resources, and strategic storytelling to develop a cohesive motion campaign. Collaborating with leadership and cross-functional team members, I gathered the stories, organizational insights, and campaign objectives needed to shape meaningful content. Each video addressed a distinct communication goal—from introducing the virtual fundraising experience and recognizing sponsors to communicating the organization's mission and promoting fundraising opportunities. Through clear messaging, visual consistency, and purposeful storytelling, I created a connected series of motion pieces that supported the campaign before, during, and after the event while maximizing the resources available.

1. Virtual Gala Campaign Promotion

Introduced the newly virtual Sunburst Gala, establishing the campaign narrative and encouraging community participation in the online format.

2. The Upside of Downs Featuring Jarvis Landry

Used authentic storytelling and the participation of Jarvis Landry of the Cleveland Browns to reinforce the organization’s mission, celebrate the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, and strengthen the emotional connection between the community and the fundraiser in social media.

3. Sponsor Recognition

Created a dedicated recognition piece that celebrated the organizations and businesses whose support made the virtual event possible. The video reinforced the value of community partnerships while providing meaningful visibility for sponsors.

4. Auction Experience Promotion

Developed a promotional video highlighting a featured auction package to generate interest, build excitement, and encourage participation in one of the fundraiser’s key revenue opportunities.

THE STRATEGIC IMPACT & RESULTS

• Supported a virtual fundraising campaign that raised $190,000+

• Produced a cohesive motion campaign spanning multiple stages of the fundraising journey

• Increased sponsor visibility and community engagement

• Demonstrated how strategic storytelling and motion design can maximize impact with limited resources