%20(3).jpg)
CASE STUDY / NONPROFIT + COMMUNITY
DOWNTOWN
MARION inc.
90 days to turn a misunderstood organization into a mission the community could see, understand, and support.
Brand Strategy / Messaging / Website / Content / Events / Fundraising
+64%
EVENT ATTENDANCE
+48%
sOCIAL ENGAGMENT
RECORD
DONATIONS
5
new BUSINESS PARTNERS
THE CHALLENGE
PEOPLE KNEW THE NAME. NOT THE MISSION.
Downtown Marion, Inc. was doing important work across events, downtown development, business support, and community projects—but much of the public didn ’t understand what the organization actually did. Many even assumed it was part of city government, creating confusion about its role, its impact, and why it needed community support.
.jpeg)
.jpg)
the insight
PEOPLE CAN’T SUPPORT
WHAT THEY CAN’T UNDERSTAND.
The problem wasn’t a lack of activity. It was visibility and understanding. Projects were scattered across platforms, the mission was difficult to explain, and the people behind the work were largely invisible. We needed to make the organization human, make its work easier to follow, and show the community exactly where its support was going.
.png)
THE WORK
01
BRAND +
POSITIONING
Clarified DMI’s role, mission, and value—and separated the organization from the misconception that it was part of city government.
02
MEDIA +
CONTENT
Made the people and projects visible through stronger messaging, storytelling, photography, video, and behind-the-scenes content.
03
DIGITAL +
communication
Rebuilt the website, created a News Blog, and turned social media into an ongoing source for project updates, events, and community impact
04
COMMUNITY +
EXPERIENCE
Repositioned the Christmas Gala with community awards, entertainment, stronger fundraising, and a more compelling event experience.
THE WORK IN MARKET
“Because of Chip's expertise, we were able to completely transform our brand clarity, increase engagement, and achieve a record-breaking Christmas Gala fundraiser. We exceeded our fundraising goals and saw over 35% growth in ticket sales and community engagement in just 90 days. Their website strategy and digital campaigns truly set us apart.”
Allen Wilson, Executive Director, Downtown Marion, Inc.
NEXT CASE STUDY → Julia Neville