Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region

This campaign encourages simple check-ins during one of the loneliest times of the year while raising awareness of the Distress Centre of Ottawa’s 24/7 mental-health support.

Conceptualization Phase

I chose this nonprofit for my project because its mission resonates with my personal experiences and the losses I've faced. The idea for the holiday campaign came from radio discussions about how loneliness can peak during this season. I aim to create an initiative that encourages people to connect rather than being absorbed in their phones.

Once I decided on the u as our nonprofit partner, I envisioned three key poster designs focused on togetherness and personal connection. While the hotline serves as a critical source of support, I believe it’s important to provide other avenues for reconnection.

To evoke a sense of hope, I selected a bright color palette, ensuring the design feels uplifting and optimistic, rather than somber.

Planning Phase

With a clear vision of my concept, I dove into the illustration process, and the initial idea unfolded beautifully. I experimented with various backgrounds, all the while staying true to my original vision. This process revealed that the core idea I had envisioned resonated perfectly with the overall vibe and essence of the campaign.

During the feedback sessions with my professor, I was thrilled to receive positive comments about my illustrations, particularly regarding text placement and the integration of typography. I dedicated myself to creating a cohesive narrative across all platforms. While I initially planned for my Instagram carousel posts to feature human hands holding a phone, I ultimately chose a more refined illustrated approach that enhanced the clarity and charm of the entire campaign.

The Outcome

In the final mock-up phase, I organized my posters and created my carousel, adjusting the bus design to fit the bus stop. This process was fun, and I can see myself working on more empathy-based designs in the future. I would like to partner with this company to develop cool fundraising ideas.

Along with the poster designs, I submitted some extra materials that they can use at their booths, which they set up at colleges and various events, including a big Gala fundraiser. These materials can help promote their message and ensure they are visible wherever needed.