Branding and event design

EqualityToledo, LGBTQ+ non-profit

During my time serving on the Board of Directors for Equality Toledo, I chaired a variety of committees, ultimately serving as board chair. One of my first assignments was to chair the Resource Development committee. Our group decided to introduce a flagship event to our fundraising portfolio. Designed to be held at the landmark Toledo Loves Love wall, a mural on the side of a gay bar, Love Fest needed branding that tied the colorful nature of the event and locale together.

We held the first Love Fest in 2017 with an audience of 600+ poised to show their support in light of acts of violence against the LGBTQ+ community on the rise.

Produced annually, the event has become the year’s biggest fundraiser for Equality Toledo and helped to nearly quadruple the organization’s operating budget. Outside of funding, the event also helped to elevate our professional presence and skill set. Board members ran the event, coordinating volunteers, performers, and logistics. This event set up future successes for Equality Toledo, including the opening of a Community Pantry and the establishment of a physical location for the first time in the 10+ year history of the organization.