Case Study: Illuminating Hope and Impact with La Rabida Children’s Hospital
Project Overview
We collaborated with La Rabida Children’s Hospital to create a four impactful films, each showcasing a different facet of the hospital’s mission, values, and community partnerships. These films were designed to connect emotionally with diverse audiences, inspire action, and honor the people and organizations that make La Rabida’s work possible. By blending cinematic visuals with personal narratives, the series brought La Rabida’s story to life in a way that brings the essence of it's community to life. From whimsical storytelling to personal reflections and community-driven impact, each film played a crucial role in celebrating La Rabida’s mission and fundraising goals. We've honed the method for creating the magic in our films over years of study, practice and artistry - centering community first. Everything is co-created to ensure authenticity and care. We are so proud of the results!
Why It Works
Personalized Storytelling
The stories dance off screen. Each film is co-created with its subject or subjects—whether introducing La Rabida, celebrating an individual, or honoring a foundation. This personalized approach ensured authenticity and emotional resonance.
Visual and Emotional Variety
Every inch of the building is alive with hope. We wanted our audience to feel that. By blending childlike whimsy, personal reflection, and community-focused storytelling, the series captured the breadth and depth of La Rabida’s mission and give everyone who watches them the same feeling and desire to want to join.
Collaborative Creation
From crowdsourcing community content to involving stakeholders in filming, the project was a true collaboration, amplifying the voices of those closest to La Rabida’s mission. We engaged community at all levels and that gives the community a stake in seeing themselves represented with care. This means they are more likely to be excited and share the project, expanding its reach.
This magical place is full of stories.
“I was absolutely blown away by the video of me you produced for the Gala. Thank you so much for doing such a great job, I really appreciate it. As importantly, I really enjoyed the whole process. The whole thing was just great.” ”
“Chicago is full of amazing humans doing the hard work to make our city equitable in the face of systems that continue to hold communities back. These stories feel like inspiring secrets that depending on where you land in our system - you may never hear. La Rabida is one of those magical secrets that I feel like the majority of Chicago has no clue it exists. Tucked away on the lakefront, on Chicago’s south-side, there is a medical community doing wondrous things to serve the most vulnerable among us in a part of our city that is often forgotten. I wanted our audiences to feel just as “wow’d” as I was by the stories taking place within its halls.” - Director, Melissa Fox
Let’s Tell Your Story
With expertise in crafting community-driven, trauma-informed narratives, we help nonprofits like La Rabida inspire action and amplify impact. Whether it’s a single film or a comprehensive storytelling suite, we’re ready to bring your vision to life.
Ready to create something meaningful? Let’s connect.
Executive Producers: Michele Gustin, James Gustin
Producer: Brent Rolland
Writer, Director, Editor: Melissa Fox
DPs: Brian Carey, Codi Palm