The Arc of San Antonio wanted its annual gala films to do more than deliver testimonials. The organization needed an emotionally honest way to show how its programs support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the family members who care for them.
Service
Nonprofit video production
Format
Two-part gala film series
Focus
Fundraising and disability advocacy
The Challenge
The Arc provides day programming, vocational training, case management, and family support. That breadth can be difficult to explain from a stage. The gala audience needed to understand the organization’s impact in the rhythms of everyday life—both for participants building independence and for caregivers balancing work, family, and responsibility.
Our Approach
Key Ideas created two connected documentary portraits. The first follows James through a day at The Arc, showing learning, recreation, relationships, and growing independence. The second centers Jocelyn, a mother and caregiver whose ability to work and manage family life is strengthened by the support The Arc provides.
What We Delivered
- Story strategy for a two-film gala presentation
- Participant and caregiver interviews
- Early-morning documentary filming
- Two companion fundraising films
- Editing, sound, and color finishing
- Year-round presentation-ready content
The most persuasive fundraising stories make impact visible through the rhythms of everyday life.
The Outcome
The films drew strong audience attention at the gala and, according to The Arc, helped support a 10% increase in donations compared with previous years. The organization also gained two stories it could continue using in presentations and fundraising throughout the year.
