Volunteer Design: Animated GIFs

I recently wrote about a SXSW panel that inspired me to use my design skills to make a difference in the world. In my research regarding how I could help, I discovered Catchafire, a platform designed to connect nonprofits in need with various creative talents.

One project that caught my eye was designing a series of animated GIFs for Haven for Hope, which would be used as advertising in an online news publication.

Haven for Hope serves clients experiencing homelessness in San Antonio. They offer a place of hope and new beginnings by providing, coordinating, and delivering an efficient system of care for people experiencing homelessness in the area. The organization wanted to create awareness about its work and build continued community support for its mission.

I applied for this volunteer position because I deeply aligned with their stated core values: Radical Compassion, Servant Leadership, Driven by Hope, and Pursuit of Excellence.

After submitting my online application, I was invited to a consultation call with the Director of Communications. During that call, I discussed my passion for helping others and what drew me to this project. My contact provided more insight into the organization and the creative needs.

I was provided brand guidelines, previous examples of online advertisements, and supporting documents outlining the organization’s mission, needs, and key statistics. With a few basic guidelines, I was given full creative freedom to develop the most compelling message and visuals to engage readers, grab attention, and tell a powerful story with extremely limited real estate in a few seconds.

The organization had multiple goals and CTAs it wanted to address, including seeking financial support and clothing donations. I was asked for three unique animated GIFs that could provide different messaging and give the organization enough variety to support a many-month-long online advertising campaign. Ultimately, I delivered four distinct GIFs.

I was able to help the organization save an estimated $4,454 in creative service fees, allowing them to use their limited funds to focus on other strategic projects.

I received the following feedback upon completing the project:

“Stephanie was great to work with! She understood our needs and was extremely responsive. I would highly recommend Stephanie for any graphic design or website project!” – Terri B., Director of Communications, Haven for Hope

View the complete impact statement here. You can view the creative assets below.