Checkmarks
Project
Community Advocacy
Campaign
Roles
Brand Strategy, Creative Concepting, Program Development, Copywriting
Owensboro, KY is facing a real problem: almost half of young students arrive at Kindergarten unprepared. It only gets worse from there, as those same kids are much less likely to reach reading proficiency by 3rd grade. When a study revealed that only about 20% of kids and families in the community were taking advantage of early childhood services, the city knew something had to be done.
As the lead strategist on this project, I performed research and compiled case studies to identify best practices and areas of need and opportunity within Owensboro. Based on these findings, our team set out to create an interactive educational initiative that was fun, accessible, and simple for families to take advantage of. In collaboration with educators and activators in Owensboro, we developed Checkmarks: a free community-wide program to ensure kids grow up Curious, Healthy, Engaged, Confident, and Kindergarten-ready.
I was instrumental in developing the name, story, structure, content, and rollout strategy of the Checkmarks program. The twofold launch plan targeted public spaces in Owensboro that families already frequent. The first phase raised awareness of the importance of early childhood development and built anticipation for the program via yard signs, posters, and a website. In phase two, a flood of inviting activities began popping up at parks, schools, community centers, and social media, with additional resources on the way for kids and their families to enjoy together at home.
Challenge Examples
Community Mural Concept
Activity Wall Mural Concept
