Case Studies
Case Study
The Veterans Life Center
The Veterans Life Center (VLC) in Butner, North Carolina, provides critical, life-saving support to at-risk veterans facing substance abuse, homelessness, and severe mental health challenges. Through a unique model that integrates housing, therapy, peer support, and job readiness, VLC offers a path to reintegration for those who might otherwise end up incarcerated or worse. While the organization had transformed hundreds of lives, its public image and donor outreach hadn’t caught up to the scale of its impact.
In 2023, we partnered with VLC to close that gap. Despite strong outcomes on the ground, VLC lacked the brand clarity and visibility needed to attract broader donor engagement and institutional funding. We approached this as a mission-first brand overhaul, redefining VLC’s messaging around redemption and second chances, while crafting a more modern and empathetic visual identity. The goal was to reflect the urgency and humanity of the work VLC was already doing.
Our strategy was to focus on storytelling. Through digital and broadcast campaigns, they shared real stories from the veterans and staff who make VLC what it is. These emotionally grounded narratives were paired with redesigned donation platforms and donor journeys that made giving more personal. The result wasn’t just more attention, it was a deeper connection. VLC’s story found its voice, and donors responded with renewed energy and generosity.
Case Study
Raleigh Park Bond Referendum
NAK Strategies was engaged to help develop a public relations campaign advocating for the passage of the Raleigh Park Bond Referendum. The initiative aimed to secure funding for vital park improvements amidst significant opposition from community factions concerned about increased taxes and budget allocations. NAK Strategies recognized the need for a bold approach to convey the value of parks as essential components of a vibrant, healthy city, positioning them as vital for community well-being and economic vitality.
To address the challenge, NAK Strategies crafted a comprehensive campaign that included strategic messaging and creative advertising. We produced two 30-second ads and two 15-second ads that emotionally connected residents to their public spaces, showcasing diverse community members enjoying parks and sharing personal testimonials. A
The result was a resounding success, with the Raleigh Park Bond Referendum passing with over 60% of the vote.
Case Study
Thayer Coggin
NAK Strategies was approached by Thayer Coggin, an iconic North Carolina-based furniture brand, to create a custom short film that would celebrate its heritage and showcase the legendary mid-century modern design philosophy championed by renowned designer Milo Baughmann and his visionary partner, Thayer Coggin. The client sought a longer-form narrative that not only highlighted the aesthetic appeal of their furniture but also encapsulated the story behind its creation, focusing on the artistry, innovation, and craftsmanship that defined an era.
To achieve this, NAK Strategies developed a visually stunning short film that intertwined rich storytelling with breathtaking cinematography. The film featured interviews with design historians, behind-the-scenes footage of the manufacturing process, and captivating visuals of the furniture in beautifully styled settings. The narrative paid homage to Baughmann’s groundbreaking designs while illustrating Thayer Coggin’s unwavering dedication to quality and innovation. In addition, NAK produced 30-second and 15-second ads cut from the film, allowing Thayer Coggin to leverage the content across multiple platforms and reach a broader audience. These advertisements maintained the film’s artistic integrity while delivering concise, impactful messages that captured the essence of the brand.
The campaign has not only garnered accolades and industry awards but continues to elevate Thayer Coggin’s brand image in the competitive furniture market. This project exemplifies NAK Strategies' ability to fuse artistry with strategy, proving that great storytelling can transcend time and space, just like the timeless pieces designed by Milo Baughmann and Thayer Coggin.