This session explores how a background in graphic design and creative direction for e-commerce companies can strengthen nonprofit communications and deepen mission impact. Drawing on more than a decade of experience creating social media and content for corporate brands, Theresa shares how those same creative skills translate—and where they must change—when working in the nonprofit sector. Designed for communications staff, nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and creatives, this talk breaks down the real differences between selling products and advancing a mission. Participants will learn how to adapt brand-driven storytelling for values-based audiences, and use design thinking to support fundraising and program goals. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for aligning visuals, messaging, and platforms to communicate clearly, authentically, and with purpose in a nonprofit setting.

What you’ll learn:

• Adapt corporate-style design and content strategies to better serve nonprofit missions and values
• Apply design thinking to support fundraising, program storytelling, and organizational goals
• Evaluate social media and content success using impact-focused metrics rather than purely commercial ones
• Pivot their career trajectory from e-commerce corporate grind to mission-driven storytelling