CommUnity, formerly The Crisis Center, was expanding services across the state of Iowa and nationally and wanted to increase potential funding sources (grantors, community funding, and private donations) to reflect the communities it was now serving. It’s former name was creating some friction in new grant applications.
Meld was asked to help determine whether this beloved and longstanding organization should change its name or keep it. Meld facilitated a full-day discovery session with staff, volunteers, Board members, and donors to gather insights and perspectives.
Meld conducted additional research and provided recommendations related to new names and later new logo designs, which were ultimately selected and approved by the volunteer Board of Directors. A comprehensive roll-out plan was developed by Meld, including recommended timing and key communication points for different stakeholder groups.
The new name and brand was released in February 2019, including an event with close to 90 attendees and coverage from eight different media outlets.
“Meld did the impossible for CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank when we hired them to rebrand our nonprofit organization. The culture of our name was deeply embedded in our agency among our volunteers, staff and also in the larger community. Meld led a successful discovery with our community stakeholders and staff and helped us create, embrace, and launch our new brand.”
Becci Reedus
Executive Director (retired 2021)