Case Study
Hope Academy
An urban school transforming educational outcomes, launching and completing a campaign generating $30M+.
We partnered with Hope Academy to build the campaign story behind a $39.2 million fundraising goal—“Realize the Remarkable,” an invitation for donors and families to see themselves as part of the school’s mission, and a campaign that ultimately reached 100% of its target.
Inflection Point
After partnering with Open Book for a successful rebrand in 2017 that helped fuel next-stage growth, Hope Academy reached a threshold moment: they needed space for a high school, and the building next door was suddenly available for purchase. But this would require moving quickly and raising significant capital ($39M!)—and growth couldn’t come at the expense of reinforcing their core.
Story Solution
Open Book provided leadership to build a compelling campaign story that could also serve as a compounding story—one to inspire participation, mobilize new and existing audiences, and spark meaningful investment. We built a cohesive strategy and suite of materials around the core concept of “Realize the Remarkable” to help Hope Academy meet this moment with lasting impact.
Bringing the Story to Life
Anchored in the story and brand of “Realize the Remarkable” we developed the campaign video, activation package, and website to invite people to be part of co-creating this big vision.
Campaign Video
This video was a joyful expression in communicating the power of realizing something new—and inviting people to be part of it.
Organization Website
After the Campaign, an Organization-Wide Brand Elevation & New Website
Our new school website has been a HUGE hit with all stakeholders and feels much more like ’us.’ Thank you for the beautiful new digital front door to help facilitate this massive phase of growth!
Director of Admissions, Hope Academy
Outcomes
- A powerful campaign story
- That inspired donors to give generously
- A “full house” at the launch event
- And strong engagement in subsequent gatherings
- $39.2 million
- fundraising goal achieved—exceeding expectations
- Beyond the campaign
- The Hope Rising Campaign materials lived beyond the campaign and informed a comprehensive revamp of the larger Hope Academy brand and website.
- On-going growth
- The new Hope Academy website has been well-received by stakeholders and been a tool to drive ongoing growth—and soon national expansion of their model.
