When traditional fundraising events halted, necessity was the key to moving forward again. New Futures, a non-profit dedicated to empowering underserved youth in the Washington, DC region, faced a daunting challenge: raising crucial funds without their cornerstone event. Enter Studio 495, with a vision to replace the event with something equally impactful - a compelling video that would not only ask for donations but also tell the stories not yet told.
New Futures plays a pivotal role for high school and college students in the community of Washington DC, propelling young people through education to rewarding careers. They bridge the gap for those underserved, creating pathways where there were none. In a year fraught with challenges, their mission became more critical than ever, making the need for funding not just urgent but essential.
Covid-19's restrictions meant the impossibility of hosting in-person events, a key fundraising strategy for New Futures. Faced with this unprecedented situation, Studio 495 stepped in. With only two months at our disposal, we embarked on a rapid yet meticulous process of scripting, storyboarding, filming, and editing the 22-minute video. Our mission was clear: to deliver a powerful message on time, within budget, and with maximum impact.
Collaboration was key. Working hand-in-hand with New Futures' Marketing Director, we crafted a narrative that would resonate with their audience. Our strategy wasn't just about producing a video; it was about telling a story that would connect, engage, and inspire action. Our video became the centerpiece of New Futures' online fundraising campaign, hosted on Givebutter. It was a digital pivot that brought their message to the screens of potential donors, harnessing the power of visual storytelling to reach a wider audience than ever before.
This campaign was a testament to the power of adaptability and the impact of storytelling. Studio 495's role was not just as a video producer, but as a strategic partner, helping New Futures navigate through challenging times. Our collaboration highlights the transformative potential of video storytelling in non-profit fundraising, proving that even in the toughest times, a powerful story well told can make all the difference.
Are you looking to make a similar impact with your story? Learn more about Studio 495's services, watch the video that made a difference, and contact us to discuss how we can bring your story to life.