Creative Direction

Branding

Production

Strategy

Defy the Odds Event

2024 Global Rescue Dinner Benefit

OVERVIEW.

2024 Global Rescue Dinner: Defy the Odds

As a creative lead for the 2024 Global Rescue Dinner: Defy the Odds, I played a pivotal role in orchestrating an unforgettable event that highlighted the impactful work of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and inspired donors to continue their support. The event, held in New York City, successfully raised just under $9 million, showcasing the generosity and commitment of our supporters.

Key Responsibilities and Achievements

  • Concept Development: Collaborated with an external agency and our internal team to develop the overarching concept for the event. The theme, "Defy the Odds," was chosen to reflect the resilience and determination of the communities the IRC serves.

  • Event Design and Execution: Led the design and execution of the in-person event, ensuring every detail aligned with the theme and objectives. This included creating a visually stunning environment that engaged and inspired attendees.

  • Animated Portraits: Designed and implemented animated portraits throughout the venue, bringing to life the stories of individuals impacted by the IRC's work. These portraits served as a powerful visual representation of the organization's mission and achievements.

  • Celebrity Engagement: Worked with actress Lena Headey, known for her role as Cersei in Game of Thrones, to promote the event and the IRC's work. Her involvement added star power and drew significant attention to the cause.

  • Musical Performance: Coordinated with Sam Smith, the lead musical guest, who delivered a captivating performance for the attendees. This high-profile entertainment element added to the event's allure and created a memorable experience for all.

  • Print and Visual Materials: Produced all print and visual pieces used in the event, including invitations, programs, signage, and digital content. Each piece was meticulously designed to reflect the event's theme and the IRC's brand identity.

  • Donor Engagement: Highlighted the importance of donor support through compelling storytelling and visual presentations. The event emphasized why donors should be proud to support the IRC, showcasing the tangible impact of their contributions.

Impact and Results

The 2024 Global Rescue Dinner: Defy the Odds was a resounding success, raising just under $9 million to support the IRC's vital work. The event not only celebrated the organization's achievements but also reinforced the importance of continued support from donors. The combination of high-profile entertainment, engaging visuals, and powerful storytelling created an unforgettable experience that resonated with attendees and inspired further commitment to the cause.

Through my creative direction, I aimed to create an event that was not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful. The success of this project demonstrated the power of creativity, collaboration, and strategic execution in driving impactful results and fostering a sense of community and support for the IRC's mission.

Look back at GRD 2023:


Available content from 2024 GRD: