Chicago non-profit Shriver Center creates virtual event series tackling racial equality and justice in 2021.

Fig and Shriver partnered to create a four part virtual event series that culminated in a virtual fundraising gala in 2021. The series tackled equity topics in healthcare, economics and racial justice using art, activism, conversation and music to connect and inspire to action. The fig team crafted full event show flows, custom art and logo reels, pre-recorded interviews and live Djs.

Shriver Center's mission to build a future free from poverty and racism aligns with fig's core values. We believe that art and activism are powerful allies to build movements. For the Road to Recovery 2021 series, the fig team worked closely with Shriver to curate conversations in virtual spaces that reflected the ongoing work. The Three part series talked about racial justice and equity.

Part One: Building an Economy That Works for Everyone

Part Two: Ending Racial Disparities in Healthcare

Part Three: Real Change for Communities of Color

Fig artist Alvin Black created an overarching illustration to be used throughout the series that ties in Shriver's theme and brand. Brent Rolland lead the creation of each show and directed the live portions. Film director Melissa Fox spearheaded the direction of pre-recorded conversations with executive directors James and Michele Gustin.

The result is content that informs and inspires communities to action while supporting the work of Shriver. The events are recorded and then used throughout the year in smaller bites for further advocacy work, making the initial investment a prosperous one.

The culminating event, a virtual gala, featured Chicagoan and Author Heather McGhee discussing the cost of racism on all of us. Important, poignant and straight to the point, the conversation warrants repeat listens.

TEAM

Executive Producers : James Gustin, Michele Gustin

Producer: Melissa Fox

Graphics + Art : Alvin Black

Live Virtual Event Show Director: Brent Rolland

Tech Director: Alvin Black

Fig DJ: Marcus Prince

Challenges

• Three part series with cohesive art, branding feeling and tone.

• Fast turn around on pre-recorded materials to stay fresh.

• Virtual event planning and systems to limit technical mistakes.

• Keeping content tight to combat screen fatigue.

How our services were used

• Virtual Event Services

  • Show Flow Creation

  • Graphic Design for Invitation

  • Show caller

  • 3 Rehearsals

  • Technical Director

  • Virtual Recording and editing of pre-recorded panels.

  • Events are used in social media throughout the year and cut into smaller bites.