Background: The organization published a bimonthly newsletter featuring programs, services, key updates, and donation opportunities. To improve accessibility, a Spanish translation option was available through a button linking to the full version. However, as the audience grew, it became clear the single newsletter format wasn’t meeting everyone’s needs.

Challenge: The newsletter was too long and not curated for specific audiences. Spanish-speaking clients primarily needed service updates, while donors were more interested in impact stories and funding opportunities.

Action: I proposed segmenting the communications into two separate newsletters—one for clients and one for donors. To support this transition, I:

- Updated the sign-up form so subscribers could choose their preferred content.Reorganized the backend in Mailchimp to automatically sort audiences.
- Designed a Google Form for directors to submit updates by audience type.
- Drafted clear announcements to prepare readers for the new format.

Result: Although I left before implementation metrics were available, I delivered a clear strategic framework that enabled the team to launch two streamlined newsletters. This approach created more targeted, relevant, and engaging communications—better serving clients while deepening donor relationships.

Newsletters: 

Background: The Forest Grove Senior & Community Center serves the elderly community through programs, services, and volunteer opportunities. Their newsletter was an important communication tool for keeping members engaged and informed.

Challenge: The existing newsletter needed adjustments for accessibility and inclusion. The senior audience required larger text, more spacing, and content tailored to their interests. Additionally, when a Spanish version was requested, it became clear that simply translating articles was not enough—other elements like riddles, flyers, and calendars also needed to be adapted.

Action: I collaborated with another department that managed content, while I handled design, copy revisions, and final production in Mailchimp. Key contributions included:

- Redesigning the layout with accessibility in mind (larger text, increased spacing, age-relevant content).

- Preserving the integrity of volunteer stories by respecting original submissions.

- Clarifying the scope of work required for a Spanish version and preparing the team for added translation needs.

- Calling a meeting to establish clear expectations around inclusion, emphasizing that copy, graphics, and flyers must also be in Spanish.

Result: This alignment led to newsletters being consistently produced in both English and Spanish for print and digital distribution. The framework I helped establish not only improved accessibility for older adults but also set a higher standard for inclusive communication.

Newsletters: 

Background: LatinoBuilt is a nonprofit that helps Latino contractors succeed in the construction industry through advocacy, business development, and leadership opportunities. As part of a short-term contract, they brought me on to support their monthly newsletter.

Challenge: The overall design was already established, but the bilingual format needed refinement to improve readability and help members quickly find information in their preferred language.

Action: I refined the layout by adding a yellow vertical bar at the beginning of the newsletter to clearly distinguish the English content from the Spanish. This visual cue made it easier for readers to navigate the content and move directly to the sections that were most relevant to them.

Result: This small but impactful design adjustment improved the newsletter’s usability for a bilingual audience and aligned the final product with LatinoBuilt’s goal of delivering accessible, member-focused communications.

Newsletter:

Coming soon.

Coming soon.