Inside Our Services: Three Annual Reports Worth Sharing

Many foundations are questioning the value of annual reports, wondering if a print version is worth the expense and whether digital has any impact. At Cause Communications, we advise our clients that annual reports offer high return on investment if approached strategically. Nobody likes a gray, boring annual report, least of all in the nonprofit world where inspiration fuels support, engagement and donations. But a report that tells a story both visually and narratively adds value beyond the numbers, giving a voice to your cause and using design to creatively express your priorities. Here are three annual reports worth sharing.

California Community Foundation: 2014 “Land of Dreams”

Print and digital formats brought out the best in each other for CCF’s 2014 annual report, which was built around vivid, relatable images of our fellow Angelenos in recognizable environments, accompanied by their personal “Stories of Impact.” This eye-catching publication exudes optimism with its bright photography, while infographics translate data quickly and clearly. The beauty and professionalism of the print version reinforces the effectiveness of the design, helping it to stand out in a sea of mail. The digital version presents the content in an accessible, engaging format for maximum impact for the web. The audience can read the content in bite-sized pieces and share a particular narrative that resonates with them—interactivity that also expands the foundation’s audience. By utilizing visual components from the printed version in the digital report the two pieces work together as well as independently.

California Wellness Foundation: 2013 “Wellness Evolution: Experience Ignites a New Grantmaking Chapter”

When selecting a creative concept for the California Wellness Foundation’s annual report, HCC sought to create an effective tool for conveying the organization’s progress over time in addition to reporting the events and outcomes within the specific year. Our solution, a visual representation of a wheel/burst signified the igniting of a new grantmaking chapter for CalWellness. From the unique die-cut cover design to the graphic depiction of the foundation’s grantmaking evolution, the 2013 report proves that good design can capture your year and captivate your audience.

From the archives: Liberty Hill Foundation: 2005 “Face of Giving, Face of Change”

We couldn’t resist highlighting an annual report from 2005 that illustrates how strategic positioning can forecast things to come. For the 30th anniversary issue, HCC’s concept was to highlight Liberty Hill’s role as incubator, via a strong photographic essay depicting some of the movers and shakers that Liberty Hill identified early and helped guide toward civic leadership. The future stars highlighted in the report included now Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and First Lady of Los Angeles Amy Wakeland; Principal Deputy for Policy and Strategy for LA County Supervisor Sheila Keuhl, Torie Osborn; U.S. Rep. Karen Bass (D. – Los Angeles); and Los Angeles City Council member Marqueece Dawson.

At Cause Communications, we’ve designed award-winning annual reports for a range of nonprofit organizations and foundations. We bring together strategic components like those highlighted in this article that make certain your report resonates with key audiences: Breakthrough creative that best illustrates the concepts selected; intimate familiarity with a variety of print and digital formats; and a plan that fits your brand and your budget. From design concept to content development to photography, we guide you through every step to ensure your annual report is a source of pride and an important resource for attracting new donors and partners.

Contact us to learn more about how we can make your next annual report your best yet.