THE DON BOSCO CENTERS
This role allowed me to support work that truly mattered by helping provide nutrition, education, and a sense of belonging to the Kansas City community. I began at The Don Bosco Centers in a volunteer position through the AmeriCorps VISTA program. After my year of service, they hired me as their full-time Director of Marketing and Communications. During my time there I brought consistency and heart to every aspect of my job, from event branding and social media to printed appeals and strategic communications. While it eventually became time for me to move on, the experience left a lasting impact on me, and I’m proud of the creative foundation I helped build during my time there.
01
Brand Identity
Guidelines That Guided Growth
Though I didn’t create the original brand, I brought it to life by building comprehensive brand guidelines that ensured every touchpoint looked and felt consistent. This consistency helped establish trust and recognition which paved the way for more partnerships and community engagement. I also worked closely with the board to co-author a new business plan that aligned mission with message.
02
Digital Strategy
From social media content to strategic email campaigns, managing many different platforms was an important part of the job. This type of outreach helped with fundraising, brand awareness, and mission storytelling. I created the content plans, took the photos, wrote the stories, designed the graphics, and clicked send.
A highlight was a Giving Tuesday campaign that surpassed our fundraising goal in just 24 hours, powered entirely by social and email outreach.
Guidelines That Guided Growth
03
Printed Appeals
From Booklets to Big Impact
I reimagined the organization’s print appeals, turning simple booklets and flyers into interactive and impactful customized pieces with intentional messaging. We mailed both spring and end-of-year appeals and supported them with digital campaigns before and after to drive donations. With each iteration, we expanded reach, elevated design, and deepened connection.
04
Events
Four Events, Tons of Fun, and Countless Moving Parts
Each year, I played a central role in planning and executing four major fundraising events. From ticketing and sponsorships to vendor coordination and volunteer logistics, I helped grow these events while keeping them fun and mission-focused. I created promo materials, maps, scripts, and day-of guides to make sure each event ran smoothly from start to finish.
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05
Merch
Branded and in Demand
Our merchandise was more than just swag, it became a statement of support. I helped design and launch items like t-shirts, candles, mugs, totes, notepads, and stickers. Many pieces sold out within a day, thanks to designs that resonated with our supporters and coordinated marketing efforts that built anticipation.
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06
Beyond the Job
The Work That Really Mattered
While my job was to serve the community, the truth is, they gave just as much to me. I spent time with seniors who shared their life stories and wisdom, taught English to resilient students, and delivered fresh produce to families who always welcomed me their homes and lives. My time at The Don Bosco Centers was filled with conversation, laughter, and learning. These relationships shaped my experience more than anything else, and reminded me that the best work is always rooted in connection.
