A large rock formation in the ocean, with smaller rocks nearby, under a pink and purple sky during twilight.

Fundraising microsite design and integration for UUSGS.

Unitarian Universalist Society of Greater Springfield

Screenshot of the Unitarian Universalist Society of Greater Springfield website homepage featuring a main banner with hands and the text "The World Needs You!" and a purple "Donate Now" button.

Project Overview

The Unitarian Universalist Society of Greater Springfield (UUSGS) is embarking on a capital campaign to raise funds for vital development projects.

As a web developer, I was entrusted with the task of integrating a microsite into UUSGS's existing online framework while ensuring consistency in both design and content.

What is UUSGS?

UUSGS is a vibrant, intergenerational, open-minded, and artistic spiritual community committed to celebration, liberation, and love.

Governed democratically and served by gifted leaders, their core values include: belonging, creativity, transcendence, and justice. Their mission is to foster unrestricted development of the human spirit, for the good of all.

Logo of the Unitarian Universalist Society of Greater Springfield featuring a purple circle with a stylized yellow flame and text in black and white.

My Objective

How might we provide a seamless means of educating users about the campaign that encourages them to donate using an online platform?

By developing a microsite for UUSGS's capital campaign, I hope to effectively communicate the purpose of the campaign efforts, inspire support from donors, and ultimately raise the necessary funds for church improvements.

Design Process

In approaching the design process for the microsite, I aimed to create a visually compelling site that stayed true to UUSGS's existing design language while also pulling in inspiration from other successful campaigns.

I began by studying their website design elements including color schemes, typography, and overall visual aesthetics. I gained invaluable insights into their preferred design language and user experience expectations which enabled me to maintain consistency through their online presence.

Screenshot of a website interface for AGILE TECHNOLOGY, displaying a sidebar menu with icons for Dashboard and Logout, and a main section to add widgets including heading, text, button, container, icon, icon section, image, menu, progress bar, separator, spacer, accordion, lead generation, form, booking, member login/registration, quiz/survey, and sales options such as checkout, store, donation, order summary, and a vertical toolbar with a plus button, hamburger menu, paintbrush, and eye icons.
Screenshot of a website header with the logo 'AGILE TECHNOLOGY,' a navigation menu labeled 'My Sites & Funnels,' and a red button labeled 'Builder'.

Overcoming Challenges

Initially unfamiliar with the hosting platform utilized by UUSGS, I began a journey to acquaint myself with it's components. As I delved deeper into its functionalities and features, I gained the necessary proficiency to implement my designs.

Content Strategy

I conducted research and found that the most effective capital campaign sites include the following points:

  1. Campaign Purpose

  2. Campaign Goals

  3. Clear Call to Action Button

  4. Frequently Asked Questions

  5. Progress Tracking

  6. Testimonials

  7. Thank You

  8. Photo Gallery

A group of people participating in a pride parade or event, holding a sign that reads 'LOVE IS LOVE', with some wearing rainbow-colored accessories and waving. The setting appears to be outdoors in a park or street.

Responsiveness

Ensuring the site would be responsive and optimized for various devices and screen sizes was crucial. The hosting site provided the option to hide specific elements on smaller screens and changes were automatically implemented across each interface.

Results and Impact

Working with UUSGS's director was such a pleasure as I learned more about their goals and found my own ideals aligning with their values. It was easy to work with my client because of our clear communication and outlined goals.

The campaign is still active and users have been flooding to the site to donate for this amazing cause. Specific numbers are unavailable in this early phase of the campaign, but I'm eager to see their progress in the coming months.

Learnings

After reflecting on my experience working on this project, I've realized just how easily information hierarchy can be implemented on an omnichannel site such as this. I also gained insights on how to effectively collaborate with clients and stakeholders during an ongoing project, ensuring goals have been met throughout the process.