Heads up!
This is an outdated case study that has been minimally reformatted to fit the current site design. Expect visual inconsistencies while updates are in progress.
Helping Other People (HOPe)
Redesigning a non-profit’s web presence—18 years overdue
Client
Helping Other People (hope-charity.org)
Point of Contact
Maura Kelly
Timeline
Spring 2018
Role
Web Designer
Tools
Squarespace, Photoshop, Illustrator, Google Docs, GoDaddy
Responsibilities
Information Architecture
Web Design
Copywriting & Editing
Domain Transfer & Launch
Overview
Helping Other People (HOPe) is a New York and New Jersey-based non-profit that has worked on a number of projects in developing countries for over 18 years. Unfortunately, it seemed as if their website hadn’t been updated in 18 years.
One of HOPe’s board members reached out to me about redesigning their website for the appropriate decade. This meant more than updating layouts, photos, and text. I had to completely redo the website from the ground up, overhauling the information architecture to simplify navigation and the donation process.
The original site was chaotic:
Misaligned page titles and body text
Outdated or broken links
Tiny, low-resolution images
No clear visual hierarchy or call to action
HOPe had a powerful story—but their website wasn’t telling it. My job was to create a modern, trustworthy site that reflected their mission and made it easier for people to get involved.
The HOPe website as of April 2018. Images courtesy of Wayback Machine.
The Process
Research & Comparative Analysis
Content Inventory & Audit
Revised Sitemap & Wireframes
Image Sourcing
Copywriting & Editing
Squarespace Build & Domain Migration
Project Goals
For the Client
Improve visual appearance
Establish credibility
Promote events
Encourage PayPal donations
For Visitors
Easily navigate website
Learn about the organization’s projects
RSVP to upcoming events
Donate without friction
Constraints
Original vs. Revised Sitemaps
Impact
This project has had a positive overall impact on HOPe’s overall engagement and fundraising. When I requested photos for the About page, the HOPe board took their first set of team headshots since the organization was founded!
Based on site analytics, the HOPe charity website has experienced:
Increased newsletter signups
Increased event RSVPs
Increased donations via PayPal
