I was tasked with developing the full design plan and visual collateral for a non-profit organization’s annual 5K Walk/Run. This is one of their most important fundraising and community building events of the year. Because this event brings together supporters, families, and participants of all ages, it needed a cohesive visual identity that felt energetic, welcoming, and true to the foundation’s branding. My goal was to create a system that would not only inform, but also inspire and leave attendees with something memorable to take home.

I began my process by creating a comprehensive mood board to define the tone, recurring design elements, and emotional direction of the event. From there, I refined the typography and established a color palette rooted in the foundation’s primary brand colors to ensure consistency and recognition. After receiving client approval, I designed the invitational flyer, carefully organizing event details into a clear, engaging layout that balanced information with visual impact. I then expanded the identity systems into the day-of-event collateral, including the finish line banner, event t-shirt, and medal lanyard. For the lanyard, which in my opinion is the most personal keepsake of the event, I developed a dynamic triangle pattern using the brand palette, creating a bold, celebratory design that felt energetic without overpowering the brand. I carried that over into the finish line banner, and other sponsor banners to unify the design collateral.

The final deliverables formed a cohesive and spirited visual experience from first announcement to finish line. Participants didn’t just attend an event, they became a part of a thoughtfully branded movement. The t-shirts and lanyards were worn with pride, extending the foundation’s visibility beyond race day and reinforcing a sense of unity among attendees. Through intentional design choices and attention to detail, I helped transform a community fundraiser into a visually memorable experience that reflected the heart of the organization it represented.