“The annual report template that Bluestem designed works well for us. Each year we update our information and Bluestem takes it from there. They provide a finished pdf file, which is easy for us to review and print. And it is all done through email and a couple of phone calls, which is great for us in our rural area!”
Linda Kastning
NEHI, Inc.
Allen, Nebraska
Producing Consistent, Cost-effective Annual Reports
Challenge
Create a system to produce concise and appealing annual reports that can easily be updated each year at minimal cost for a small community-based housing organization. The publication is used in a direct mail funding solicitation to vendors, donors and other organizational supporters and in community presentations about the organization’s work.
Activities
- Developed a template for report components including photos, financials, etc.
- Compiled pertinent statistical information into easy-to-read charts/graphs
- Edited success stories from clients and quotes from partners to illustrate organization’s value to the community
- Worked with graphic artist to develop an attractive, print-ready document. See a sample report.
Results
- Previously untapped donors are reached each year through a successful direct mail campaign.
- Staff time spent producing the document has been greatly reduced, allowing more resources to be devoted to program administration.
- County Commissioners are learning more about the organization’s impact each year through a consistent communication tool.