The Problem
Weaver Child Development Center (CDC), a Reggio-inspired preschool in Canton, OH, needed a clear and professional way to communicate their story during fundraising conversations.
Their mission, philosophy, and goals were strong but lived across multiple touchpoints. There wasn’t a single source of information that could guide conversations with donors, partners, and families.
The Solution
We created a custom fundraising folder that organized Weaver CDC’s story.
The piece includes a half folder with staggered inserts that breaks down complex information into easy to navigate content.
Instead of overwhelming readers with everything at once, the structure allows Weaver CDC’s story to unfold step-by-step:
- Who Weaver CDC is and their mission
- The Reggio Emilia philosophy and approach to learning
- How they teach and support student development
- The journey from toddler through primary grades
- The role of donor support in sustaining and growing their mission
Built for real conversations, the folder serves as both a leave-behind and a tool to help Weaver CDC’s team communicate confidently in meetings, tours, and fundraising events.
Action Steps
1. Audit and Align
We started by reviewing Weaver CDC’s existing collateral and meeting with their team to identify what to keep, improve, and expand.
2. Build the Structure
We organized all content into three core buckets that created a clear framework to guide both messaging and design.
- About Us
- Weaver Way
- Stages of Growth
3. Develop the content
From there, we wrote content for each section that is clear, approachable, and in Weaver’s CDC’s voice.
- About Us: Mission, Purpose, “Protecting Childhood”, and The Three Teachers
- Weaver Way: Reggio-philosophy, The Hundred Languages, How We Teach Reading, 5 Pillars of Literacy, The Atelier, and Outdoor Space
- Stages of Growth: Grades, Scholarships & Tuition, Donations, and The Weaver Way
4. Design the Folder
Once the content was finalized, we created a full set of custom inserts. Each had its own layout, imagery, and hierarchy using Weaver CDC’s brand colors and visual style.
We also designed a custom half folder that brings the entire piece together
- Tree drawing by a Weaver CDC student on the cover
- QR code, contact information, and disclosure of the back
- Interior layout featuring Weaver CDC’s logo, Reggio principles, and branded elements
- Dedicated pockets for a business card and donation card
- Background design incorporating The Hundred Languages poem
5. Refine and Finalize
We collaborated closely with Weaver CDC’s principal to ensure every detail was aligned and intentional.
6. Produce and Deliver
Once approved, we prepared final print files, coordinated production, and delivered the finished folders in time for a key fundraising event.
Results:
- A professional fundraising resource
- A tool that supports donor conversations and builds trust
- A physical piece that reflects the care and intention behind Weaver CDC’s brand
Let’s Build Something That Works
Not every message belongs in a digital campaign.
Sometimes, the most effective way to tell your story is through something tangible. Something designed to be shared, discussed, and remembered.
If you need help organizing your messaging, or creating tools that support real-world conversations, contact Ladderside Marketing today!
