animals in translation

geneva, il

Response/Solution

The salient focus, fiscal prudence, was achieved through a series of transition videos highlighting how donations are used and behind-the-scenes footage (intake, enrichment, medical care, fosters, adoptions or release as in the case of wildlife).

Wildlife conservation, ever the hard sell to the public, was represented by an onsite Virginia Opossum.

Known for her insight and sound logic, prominent author and speaker on both autism and animal behavior, Dr. Temple Grandin, was secured as a guest speaker and the event quickly sold out.

Outcome/Results

This Gala remains the client’s most powerful fundraiser to date yielding record-breaking attendance, profit, and numerous new attendees/donors and corporate sponsors for ensuing events.

The relationship with Dr. Grandin helped secure the 2025 Guest Speaker, Dr. Kwane Stewart CNN’s 2023 Hero of the Year and Founder of Project Street Vet.

Challenge/Opportunity

Having navigated two years wrought with challenge, this event represented an opportunity to leverage renewed trust in the organization and grow donor giving.

We wanted to showcase the ability to do amazing things on a sound budget.

To convey good stewardship and financial solvency, a mid-tier venue was chosen. The unstated theme of this gala was trustworthiness.