Overview

Nonprofits are navigating increasing pressure around how they communicate. Whether responding to public scrutiny, shifting funding landscapes, or questions around what can and cannot be said. 

This session creates space to step back and think more intentionally about how organizations communicate in this moment. Together, we will explore how brand and storytelling can support clarity, consistency, and connection, while staying grounded in the communities organizations serve. 

Through discussion, examples, and an interactive brand archetype exercise, participants will reflect on how their organization shows up, how messages are shaped, and how to navigate communication decisions in a changing environment. 

 Topics of Discussion

• Explore how to approach communications in uncertain environments, including navigating public perception and funding-related sensitivities 
• Distinguish between messaging and storytelling, and how each shape how organizations are understood 
• Reflect on organizational brand and how it connects to the communities served 
• Engage in a brand archetype exercise to help identify a clear and consistent communication approach 
• Consider how communication practices can support connection and alignment across organizations, rather than working in isolation 

Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for nonprofit professionals looking to strengthen how their organization communicates in a rapidly changing environment. 

While open to anyone involved in communications, storytelling, or public engagement, it will be particularly valuable for: 

• Communications and Marketing Staff looking to strengthen messaging and better connect brand and storytelling 
• Executive Directors and Organizational Leaders navigating how to communicate during uncertainty, public scrutiny, or funding shifts 
• Development and Fundraising Professionals working to strengthen the connection between communications and donor engagement 
• Anyone involved in shaping or delivering organizational messaging, especially those balancing multiple roles without a dedicated communications team 

Facilitators

Mel deVivar (she/her) – Founder and Design Director, Designing with Mel  

Mel is on a mission to make marketing and communications feel more accessible, approachable, and real. She works alongside mission-driven nonprofits and BIPOC entrepreneurs, helping them share their stories with clarity and confidence. 

Before stepping into the design world, Mel spent 15+ years in higher education creating learning experiences rooted in equity and inclusion. That foundation continues to shape her work today as a user experience designer. 

She knows firsthand that design—like education—can be shaped by power and gatekeeping. That’s why she believes in co-creating with her clients, building with them (not just for them) in ways that feel empowering and aligned. 

A Bay Area native, you can find Mel at live shows, trying new restaurants, or deep into her latest K-drama. 

 

Mike de Vera (he/him) – National Marketing Director, Project by Project 

Mike is a content strategist, where he helps organizations and small businesses leverage their target audiences to craft tailored and compelling social media engagement strategies. Mike has a wealth of experience in higher education, producing digital content (video, newsletter, live programs) for computer science online students across the country. 

He also leads marketing campaigns across three cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York) for Project by Project, a nonprofit focused on philanthropy, volunteerism, and leadership in the AAPI community. Lastly, he is the founder of Lil Nomad Productions, which offers video services to nonprofits and small business entrepreneurs. When he is not working, he is on his way to another country, trying a new restaurant, or meeting other creatives. 

COVID Protocols

Masks are not required at this time, but we ask you to be considerate of fellow attendees’ health and comfort and practice mindful social distancing. If you are exhibiting any signs of cold or flu symptoms, please stay at home. We are monitoring developments around COVID-19 and will adjust event guidelines accordingly.