Empowering Job Seekers in Durham
Client: StepUp Durham
About this Project
Elizabeth Butler knew getting a job after being released from prison was going to be challenging. Even her probation officer doubted her. “I knew without family, without friends, without support, I was going to be at risk of recidivism,” Butler said. But after learning of the StepUp program, she completed their initial, “Jobs Week” training and was quickly hired as a full-time housekeeper at the luxury Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, N.C. Butler remained passionate about StepUp and later joined the staff as an Employment Counselor, helping others through the same challenges she faced.
StepUp Durham provides employment readiness training for people with challenges such as a criminal record, homelessness, time out of the workforce or other issues. They work tirelessly to help people have the means to take care of themselves and their families. Although we were friendly with StepUp before beginning this project, we really got to know the organization, its mission and dedicated staff.
We were commissioned by StepUp to produce a promotional video showcasing their programs and participants for their annual fundraising gala. Our goal is always to highlight those most impacted by an organization and together with StepUp, we uncovered powerful, personal stories from participants that reflect the heart of their work. It was a true creative collaboration, grounded in trust and shared purpose.
After this first project, StepUp commissioned us to produce a video—“Work.Grow.Thrive.”—that focused on the continuing support their provide for their participants. Link below.
Social Media Videos
In addition to the main promo video, we crafted three dynamic short videos—each about a minute long—spotlighting different facets of StepUp’s ]programming. Filmed during the main production, the shorts were designed to extend the reach of the campaign, shared widely across social media, email newsletters, and other digital platforms. It was a smart, strategic way to maximize the impact of our shoot and keep the momentum of StepUp’s story alive leading up—and following—their fundraising gala.
More StepUp Durham Videos
