First Boulevard Black-Owned Neobank First Boulevard and Terrence J Launch Financial Literacy Initiative For HBCU Student Client First Boulevard: Financial Literacy Initiative Year 2021 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Public Relations Industry Start-Up, B2C Our Approach For this 1-month campaign, we knew it would be best to leverage Terrence J’s brand ambassadorship to bring awareness to First Boulevard’s mission—particularly among publications that cater to Black millennials, HBCUs and breaking news within the Black community. To maximize our efforts we firstly conducted a coverage audit on First Boulevard and Terrence J, analyzing stories within the past 365 in order to determine the best outlet to release an exclusive. Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) Black America has been underbanked, unbanked and underserved for centuries. First Boulevard empowers Black America to take control of their $1.4T+ in annual economic impact while also being fully inclusive and welcoming of all other communities. Specifically, First Boulevard Founders, Donald Hawkins and Asya Bradley, wanted to bring awareness to their Project Tassels campaign with actor, and media personality, Terrence J, who is their Strategic Advisor of Financial Education. Our Impact & Client Milestones In addition to writing and releasing a press release on the wire with the First Boulevard team, our tailored pitches resulted in 19 placements on Rolling Out, HBCU Buzz, BIN.com , Sheen Magazine, Afro Tech, Urban Magazine, Def Pen and Power 105.1, News One, HBCU Connect and more. (73% of coverage included backlinks diverting traffic to First Boulevard's website.) Although not selected as the final outlet to release the exclusive, our efforts did garner interest from The Breakfast Club. Additionally, despite scheduling conflicts which prevented the officiation of the interview, our efforts did garner interest from the Earn Your Leisure podcast. Our Impact & Client Milestones In addition to writing and releasing a press release on the wire with the First Boulevard team, our tailored pitches resulted in 19 placements on Rolling Out, HBCU Buzz, BIN.com , Sheen Magazine, Afro Tech, Urban Magazine, Def Pen and Power 105.1, News One, HBCU Connect and more. (73% of coverage included backlinks diverting traffic to First Boulevard's website.) Although not selected as the final outlet to release the exclusive, our efforts did garner interest from The Breakfast Club. Additionally, despite scheduling conflicts which prevented the officiation of the interview, our efforts did garner interest from the Earn Your Leisure podcast.

City of Bridgeport Driving Community Engagement for Equity in Procurement Client City of Bridgeport Year 2024 Scope of Work Content Creation, Public Relations Industry Municipal Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) The City of Bridgeport, in partnership with Griffin & Strong, P.C. (GS), conducted a Disparity Study to examine potential disparities in municipal procurement based on race and gender. GS sought BRVC’s support to drive local community engagement and public relations efforts to raise awareness of the study and maximize attendance at English- and Spanish-speaking Informational Meetings and Public Hearings. Our Approach BRVC implemented a strategic outreach and public relations plan to promote the Disparity Study and encourage community participation. Key initiatives included: Community Outreach & PR Planning: Created pre-event plans tailored to English- and Spanish-speaking audiences for both the Informational Meetings (September 10–11, 2024) and Public Hearings (November 20–21, 2024). Collaborated with GS and Bridgeport’s Small Minority Business Enterprise office to identify and engage target organizations, networks, and individuals through databases, research, and personal connections. Marketing Collateral Development: Designed transformative English-language flyers for both the Informational Meetings and Public Hearings to connect with the community. Drafted and launched press releases via Cision’s PRWeb, reaching up to 133 media platforms. Distributed press releases directly to local outlets, including CT Post, News 12, Channel 8, Hartford Courant, Patch - Bridgeport, and event platforms like AllEvents.in. Strategic Online Promotion: Secured calendar placements on local platforms like CT Post, Patch, and others to maximize visibility. Adapted outreach for Public Hearings to target construction-related professionals and service providers for broader participation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC’s strategic outreach and public relations efforts successfully amplified community awareness and engagement for the City of Bridgeport’s Disparity Study, resulting in the following impactful outcomes: Increased Visibility: Press releases reached a potential audience of up to 3.8 million, with 260 placements across both events and numerous clicks driving interest. Secured online calendar placements on prominent platforms like CT Post, Patch - Bridgeport, and AllEvents.in, generating thousands of local impressions. Community Engagement: For the Informational Meetings, 83% of contacted organizations responded, with 33% sharing event details through newsletters and e-blasts. Notable participants included Colorful Bridgeport, Connecticut Construction Industries Association (CCIA) + CCIA Divisions/Associated General Contractors of CT, and ABC Connecticut (Associated Builders and Contractors of CT), demonstrating strong community collaboration. Public Hearings maintained participation, with key organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Bridgeport Regional Business Council, and others amplifying outreach efforts and engaging diverse community members. Event Attendance: Recognizable attendees included influential community members and representatives from targeted sectors, particularly construction-related industries, as outreach efforts shifted to better align with audience demographics.

Swelly Small Town Artist Gains Buzz for The Release of His Single Featuring an Artist Signed to DJ Khaled Client Swelly: Single Release ft. Multi-Platinum Artist Year 2019 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Public Relations Industry Entertainment Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) A CT artist embraces his humble beginnings, grit, and desire to uplift underrepresented individuals in order to reach new audiences via his single release, connecting with youth in his hometown of Willimantic, CT, and attending Super Bowl LIV weekend. A native of New York’s Washington Heights, independent artist, Swelly, developed a love of music and hip-hop culture from his artistic peers, as well as growing up in Dyckman. Swelly’s music is rooted in his coined saying, “Tryna Get Right” (TGR)—a motto which represents the daily perseverance, built from the rough upbringing he and his loved ones faced. Prior to working with us, his grounded mentality and non-stop hustle granted him the opportunity to share the stage with the likes of French Montana, Lil Durk, Young Ma, and Jim Jones; and earn over a total of 1,000,000 Youtube views on music videos. When Swelly landed a feature with DJ Khaled's We The Best Music Group label signee and multi-platinum artist, Flipp Dinero, he knew it was an opportunity to reach new fans and indoctrinate them into the TGR community. So we went to work: So we went to work: So we went to work: Our Approach To ensure we presented Swelly's relatable story in the most effective and authetnic way, our collaboration started with an audit of his existing brand presence online and production of an elecontric press kit as well as other pitchable materials. Since Swelly had a connection to his home state, New York, as well as Willimantic, Connecticut (a place he called his 2nd home), we launched a 6-month "Better Days" regional campaign that positioned him as a rising talent who uses music as a way to create a life that's better than his circumstances. To diversify the reach of Swelly's brand, we considered traditional and non-traditional visibility opportunities (i.e. Instagram takeovers, collaborating with community organizations and a celebratory event for the single) Our Impact & Client Milestones Within the first 3-months of our campaign, we secured 11 local and regionally recognized media placements (Estimated impressions: 1,776,188) 90% of the news coverage was earned media 55% of the news coverage introduced elements of Swelly's story to audiences via an interview or profile story (instead of only posting his song/music video) The "Better Days" music video premiered on WorldStarHipHop.com--which garnered over 1,000,000 views in less than 48 hours Notable media coverage: WTNH 8 (an ABC affiliate), ItsBizKit, CT Breakthrough, Hip-Hop Vibe, 107.7fm The Edge The WTNH 8 TV interview was shared on the outlet's Facebook page which garnered 858 shares, 333 likes, and 92 comments The increased brand awareness contributed to growth on Swelly's Instagram presence, specifically: 91k+ impressions 16.4k engagement 153 link clicks 57k+ reach Within the first 3-months of our campaign, we secured 11 local and regionally recognized media placements (Estimated impressions: 1,776,188) 90% of the news coverage was earned media 55% of the news coverage introduced elements of Swelly's story to audiences via an interview or profile story (instead of only posting his song/music video) The "Better Days" music video premiered on WorldStarHipHop.com--which garnered over 1,000,000 views in less than 48 hours Notable media coverage: WTNH 8 (an ABC affiliate), ItsBizKit, CT Breakthrough, Hip-Hop Vibe, 107.7fm The Edge The WTNH 8 TV interview was shared on the outlet's Facebook page which garnered 858 shares, 333 likes, and 92 comments The increased brand awareness contributed to growth on Swelly's Instagram presence, specifically: 91k+ impressions 16.4k engagement 153 link clicks 57k+ reach Additionally, we coordinated a collaboration with Windham Regional Community Council's Youth Investment program--which strives to guide youth toward productive interests, develop a sense of self efficacy and make responsible choices and positive contributions to the community. Swelly spent the day with 10+ teenagers, tending to a community garden. While there, he was able to share his experiences traveling back and forth to Willimantic, and pursue a music career despite adversity When Swelly signed to Roc Nation's independent distribution entity--Equity Distribution--a month into our collaboration, we leveraged the news to secure attendance at Super Bowl LIV weekend in Miami, Florida. While there, he attend Boom Cups' Celebrity Basketball game (affiliated acts: Floyd Mayweather, Tory Lanez, Swae Lee, Trey Songz, Dj Clue, Pop Smoke and more). He also attended Miami Super Bowl LIVExperience Rooftop Concert featuring national recording hip hop artist, Trina. By attending both events, we secured an estimated 42,754 from impressions. Notable media coverage: Round Two-The Show, Could Be You TV, Keturah The Host, Carmen Roxanne (work seen in Baller Alert, ONSITE TV and Unwritten Media) and Magazine Muzic.

Haiama Beauty Co. Project 8 Weeks to Marketing Success Year 2023 Scope of Work 60-Day Pow Wow Industry Lifestyle, B2C BRVC is an incredible firm! I attended an 8-week course for SMBs/entrepreneurs and I learned how to use TikTok, how to better reach my target audience and identified attainable marketing goals for the next 3 months. Highly recommend! Allison S. Founder

Future Link Optimizing Processes and Expanding Sustainable Impact for Future Link’s Career Coaching Program Client Future Link Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Non-Profit Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) Future Link sought a program evaluation consultant to assess and provide recommendations on the structure, processes, metrics, and scaling plan for their Career Coaching Program (CCP). The goal was to increase students' college persistence rate, degree completion, and workforce training outcomes that lead to internships and job placements. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked closely with Future Link to evaluate the program and create recommendations aimed at scaling the CCP. Our approach focused on improving efficiency, streamlining processes, and maintaining a human-centered approach while leveraging technology for scalability. Program Evaluation & Process Improvement: We reviewed the current program, focusing on the three-track structure, student life cycle, and career coach life cycle. Based on our analysis, we created three Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Documents to standardize processes for the Career Planners, students, and staff. We also recommended automation to streamline tasks, improve efficiency, and maintain program effectiveness. Metrics Evaluation & Scaling Plan: We conducted market research to assess national benchmarks for career development programs, ensuring that Future Link was measuring the right data points. We also developed a scaling plan that outlined the steps needed to grow the program — including human, technical, and financial resources. Implementation & Automation: We implemented processes using Monday.com for tracking, reporting, and automation. This included designing workflows for all stages of the program and providing a clear, actionable plan for scaling and reporting to key stakeholders, such as the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC helped Future Link build a scalable framework for their CCP, focusing on process improvement, resource development, and data-driven strategies to ensure sustainable growth: Scaling Plan Development: We created a roadmap to expand CCP by focusing on human, technical, and financial strategies. The plan set clear goals to increase student reach to 175 students and secure 65 internships by 2024. We also identified key metrics for success, including graduation rates and financial stability. Process Improvement & Automation: Streamlined SOPs and integrated Monday.com for tracking and automating workflows. This improved efficiency, reduced administrative tasks, and supported the scaling of the program without compromising its personalized approach. Resource Creation: Developed 41 resources, including templates, tutorials, and guides, to aid in program execution and staff onboarding, empowering Future Link to grow while maintaining consistency. Data-Driven Strategy: We aligned the scaling efforts with measurable metrics, ensuring continuous improvement and positioning Future Link for future funding opportunities with detailed reports for stakeholders like the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation.

Lachers Reese Expansion, Here We Come! Lachers Hair By Demand Improves Operations Management Client Lachers Reese: Holistic Growth Year 2018-2019 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Brand Partnerships, Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Team Development Industry Lifestyle, B2C Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) A move to a new salon location in 2018, sparked a determination for brand growth--starting from the inside! Goal & Objectives Update and launch website Create and promote event packages for weddings, event planners, bar & bat mitzvahs, entertainment companies, etc Create and implement marketing/public relations plan that increases client relationships, workshops and strategic partnerships Find opportunities to maximize staff, and overall growth in customers Our Approach To prepare the Lachers Reese brand for the benefits of an aggressive integrated PR/Marketing Strategy & Communications plan, BRVC's collaboration focused on brand development, digital marketing consulting, operations consulting, creative services & preliminary public relations support. Our Impact & Client Milestones Updated website for discoverability, brand identity and consistency purposes. Updates included: biography, images, online booking, special occasion bookings and newsletter subscriptions. The updated website generated incoming inquiries from potential clients (a nearly 50% monthly increase from 2017-2018) Developed messaging & graphics for brochures, which highlighted special occasion bookings Generated a list of state-wide venues, event planners & entertainment/performing arts companies to prepare for an aggressive promotional campaign Brainstormed & created a brand ambassador/influencer program to connect with local influencers Grew salon team to include assistant, receptionist and another stylist that aligns with updated brand goals and company infrastructure Ongoing support: Lead operations management Develop internal processes Improve company culture Host staff meetings Brainstorm salon specials Improve external communication processes & more

National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) Transforming Internship Programs: Streamlining Recruitment, Onboarding, and Alumni Engagement for Long-Term Growth Client National Museum of African America History & Culture Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Event Planning Industry Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) The National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) needed assistance in transforming its internship and workforce development programs. Specifically, BRVC worked on simplifying the recruitment process, streamlining onboarding, and fostering long-term alumni engagement. This was crucial for enhancing the museum's internship programs while supporting a high volume of applications and candidates. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked with NMAAHC to evaluate their current systems, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions that improved efficiency and scalability. Our services included project management, systems implementation, administrative assistance, and event planning. Auditing Current Systems: We started by auditing NMAAHC’s existing databases, resources, and workflows to gain familiarity with their program. We identified key bottlenecks and areas of improvement, especially in tracking internship applications and maintaining alumni connections. Creating SOPs and Workflows: To address the identified challenges, we created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to document best practices and ensure consistency. We also developed workflows using Asana, which streamlined communication, task management, and follow-ups. Additionally, we implemented a timelining system to ensure that the application process and intern onboarding remained on track. Implementing Systems: We leveraged automated tools to enhance data tracking, manage tasks efficiently, and ensure timely responses. These systems allowed NMAAHC to reduce manual effort while increasing the scalability of their processes Our Impact & Client Milestones Streamlined Recruitment: Through the implementation of efficient SOPs and workflows in Asana, we helped NMAAHC manage 1,300+ applications , reduce processing times, and ensure that candidate inquiries were promptly addressed. This led to record-high application volumes and reduced internal bottlenecks in the recruitment process. Improved Alumni Engagement: By reconnecting with 75+ alumni through surveys, newsletters, and networking events, we successfully launched a new alumni initiative. This kept alumni engaged and turned them into advocates for the program, further enhancing the museum's reputation and community connections. Efficient Onboarding: The redesigned onboarding process for over 60+ interns provided a structured, stress-free experience. By creating easy-to-follow workflows and helping with logistics like background checks and IT support, interns started their roles with confidence, and supervisors saved valuable time. Operational Efficiency & Future Planning: Our work laid the foundation for scalable growth in NMAAHC’s internship programs. With automated workflows, clearer processes, and a stronger alumni network, the museum is now better positioned to continue expanding its reach and improving participant experiences in future cycles.

Town of Waterford Town of Waterford Takes Action Towards Supporting Small Businesses Impacted by the Pandemic, Launches Grant Program Client Town of Waterford Takes Action Towards Supporting Small Businesses Impacted by the Pandemic, Launches Grant Program Year 2022-2023 Scope of Work Project/Program Management | Administrative Assistance Industry Municipal Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) Using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, the Town of Waterford wanted to develop and administer a Small Business and Assistance Program that would provide pandemic relief to small businesses. This was the first program directly supporting Waterford small businesses, and First Selectman Rob Brule along with the Economic Development Commission requested assistance. Our Approach We understood that facilitating a program that adequately supports the unique infrastructures, cultures and processes found within small business models requires many interconnected pieces. We took a well-rounded, innovative and customized approach to implementing operations management services that thoroughly assessed the specific needs of Waterford’s small businesses in order to: ensure the shared grant materials align with legal requirements grant information is clearly communicated and promoted to prospective applicants the application process is conducted as seamlessly and fairly as possible facilitate communication so that all relevant parties can be kept knowledgeable on awardees implement administrative support to upkeep maintenance and reporting Our Impact & Client Milestones Our Operations Management support enabled us to build the Town of Waterford's first Small Business program, from end-to-end and specifically: Ensure it followed federal/ARPA policy Facilitated community listening via a survey that gathered quantitative and qualitative data from over 50 small business owners, which was not only useful for the creation of the program but also for long-term use by the Town Curate and host a virtual round table discussion between Town leaders and small business impacted by the pandemic, to de-mystify any concerns about the application process Built a user-friendly submission process, which resulted in 9 complete applications Created a user-friendly application rubric for the EDC to award $78,500 in total funding to all 9 applicants As of January 2023, BRVC is working with the Town of Waterford to facilitate the second cohort for the program, with the remaining $105,000 ARPA funds.

Alexi Paraschos Singer & Songwriter Pays Tribute to the Virtual Weddings of the Coronavirus Client Alexi Paraschos: Video Tribute to Virtual Weddings Year 2020 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Public Relations Industry Entertainment Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) An album release during the beginning of the pandemic lockdown wasn't ideal, yet award-winning artist, Alexi Paraschos' music celebrated love in the midst of challenges. Called "blue-eyed soul for the 2ist century," Alexi Paraschos is an award-winning soul, R&B, and pop singer/songwriter based in Philadelphia. He is known for his smooth tenor voice paired with original, catchy melodies, which give him his unique and captivating sound. Inspired by a trip to his father's homeland of Greece in 2018, Alexi wanted to bring awareness to his project, "Love Odyssey" which pays homage to his Greek heritage, and his subsequent wedding engagement to his longtime partner. Our Approach In a 3-month "Love Odyssey" campaign we worked alongside influencer and social media marketing agency, DRTR Agency, to craft a compelling narrative that would not only make R&B fans aware of Alexi, but also listen to the album. To lead our strategy, we leveraged Alexi's existing accolades (i.e. awards, playing at SXSW Music Festival, and successfully kickstarting an East Coast Diner Tour) and notable album features (hip hop veteran, Jadakiss; Grammy-award winner, Chrisette Michele, Natalie Stewart from Floetry and more) to push the leading single, "Mine." Since the release was at the beginning of the pandemic lockdown which halted all performances, music videos and in-person opportunities to generate awareness, we suggested that Alexi (whose wedding was pushed back for the unforeseeable future), spotlight couples who had virtual weddings for the release of the single's video. Our Impact & Client Milestones In addition to a press release, our tailored pitches earned 7 placements on local, regional and national platforms (Estimated impressions: 38M+). 29% of coverage were music reviews, 57% were profiles or features highlighting Alexi's brand story The "Mine" music video featured 30 newlyweds representing sixteen states, six countries, and four continents. Notable media coverage: New York Times, Philadelphia Magazine, ThisIsRnB, and Soul Tracks. The story was also picked up by NECN (an NBC affiliate).

Tina Turtle x Steve Madden Boosting Tina Turtle’s Brand and Revenue Client Tina Turtle Year 2024 Scope of Work Branding, Influencer Marketing, Influencer Management Industry Lifestyle Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach Over the past 8.5 months, we focused on solidifying the packaging and presentation of Tina’s brand to elevate her as a go-to collaborator for brands looking to connect with Gen-Z and millennial women who live confidently, appreciate nostalgia, and aim to make the most of life. Branding & Strategy: Updated social media bios and created a streamlined brand kit and one-sheet to establish a consistent and clear brand identity. Marketing & Communications: Defined partnership goals, conducted market research, and analyzed past efforts to identify strategic opportunities. Set up a Brand Correspondence Tracker to manage inbound inquiries. Operations Management: Managed inbound inquiries with response templates and directed to Tina’s management. Pitched outbound to relevant brands, securing partnerships and increasing revenue. Our Impact & Client Milestones Revenue Growth: From October 4 to December 20, Tina's revenue nearly doubled compared to the previous 1.5-month period, and almost tripled compared to the first 4 months of the partnership. This demonstrates a significant increase in both the average deal size and overall revenue performance. Social Media Milestones: Tina reached 100k+ followers on Instagram, significantly expanding her reach and influence. Brand Partnerships: She attended her first festival, the Broccoli City Music Festival, with travel compensation. Tina became the face of a summer campaign with Paper Planes, which resulted in ongoing engagement with the brand. After participating in gifting campaigns, Tina secured her first paid Steve Madden deal and a paid partnership with Adore Me, showcasing her ability to leverage event content into paid collaborations. Gained partnerships with Fashion Nova, Readyhubb, Kenner, Nike, PUMA and more. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator.

Tina Turtle x Steve Madden Boosting Tina Turtle’s Brand and Revenue Client Tina Turtle Year 2024 Scope of Work Branding, Influencer Marketing, Influencer Management Industry Lifestyle Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach Over the past 8.5 months, we focused on solidifying the packaging and presentation of Tina’s brand to elevate her as a go-to collaborator for brands looking to connect with Gen-Z and millennial women who live confidently, appreciate nostalgia, and aim to make the most of life. Branding & Strategy: Updated social media bios and created a streamlined brand kit and one-sheet to establish a consistent and clear brand identity. Marketing & Communications: Defined partnership goals, conducted market research, and analyzed past efforts to identify strategic opportunities. Set up a Brand Correspondence Tracker to manage inbound inquiries. Operations Management: Managed inbound inquiries with response templates and directed to Tina’s management. Pitched outbound to relevant brands, securing partnerships and increasing revenue. Our Impact & Client Milestones Revenue Growth: From October 4 to December 20, Tina's revenue nearly doubled compared to the previous 1.5-month period, and almost tripled compared to the first 4 months of the partnership. This demonstrates a significant increase in both the average deal size and overall revenue performance. Social Media Milestones: Tina reached 100k+ followers on Instagram, significantly expanding her reach and influence. Brand Partnerships: She attended her first festival, the Broccoli City Music Festival, with travel compensation. Tina became the face of a summer campaign with Paper Planes, which resulted in ongoing engagement with the brand. After participating in gifting campaigns, Tina secured her first paid Steve Madden deal and a paid partnership with Adore Me, showcasing her ability to leverage event content into paid collaborations. Gained partnerships with Fashion Nova, Readyhubb, Kenner, Nike, PUMA and more. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator.

CT Office of The Arts Connecticut Office of the Arts Bolsters Economic Opportunity in the Arts with Workforce Initiative Client CT Office of The Arts: Improving Economic Opportunity in the Arts Year 2017-2023 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Municipal, Non-Profit Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) A paid apprenticeship program that gives Connecticut college students, emerging creatives, formerly incarcerated individuals and military veterans an opportunity to gain high-level professional work experience with not-for-profit arts and cultural organizations throughout the state. Since its inception in 2017, more than 100 Connecticut college students, emerging creatives, formerly incarcerated individuals and military veterans have been placed in apprenticeships at non-profit and cultural organizations. In return, they have explored various job opportunities in the arts, developed new passions, enhanced their skillset, received professional development support and, for some, long-term employment. Additionally, host organizations have provided apprentices with engaging experiences in arts administration, visual arts, arts presenting/curating, media arts, performing arts, visual arts, arts education and literary arts. In an effort to scale the program with an intenton of curating a well-rounded summer apprenticeship experience that attracts more talent as well as fosters job opportunities, the Connecticut Office of the Arts requested assistance to achieve the following outcomes: Maintain retention of apprentice placements in selected organizations Show that AWI/employment in the arts contributes to the economic growth in CT Be able to gather accurate apprentice demographics, and use data to further improve diversity, equity and inclusion in the program Build trust as well as organic & ongoing relationships between COA, apprentices & organizations (receive genuine trackable & quality feedback from organizations & interns in regards to their experiences with one another, as well as COA/AWI) Instill professional development workshops/trainings for intern applicants & selected organizations Long-term: Receive applications that align with the cross-sectors of the arts' community (i.e. public relations, marketing, etc.) Our Approach Worked with COA’s leadership to thoroughly assess and update internal messaging for the program to ensure it maintains its integrity of following state policy as well as its READI principles Provided messaging and counsel for public information sharing via newsletters, social media and directly with stakeholders Strategically and carefully implemented communications and operational practices/counsel to COA, stakeholders and apprentices as they navigated COVID-19 Facilitated implemenetation and supervision of the developed processes Our Impact & Client Milestones Since 2020, a total of 35 apprentices were provided job opportunities in 35 non-profit organizations within 2 years, resulting in over $131,250 being distributed to apprentices. (Please view our reports for details on the impact of our work and how we met/exceeded required outcomes: 2021 and 2020. Kindly note, each of our client collaborations include frequent check-ins, agendas and recap reports.) Additional Reference Links: AWI Website (Kindly note, BRVC is a part of the program’s redesign for 2023. Our work involves: brand development, social & digital strategy, public relations and project management.) 2021 Selected Apprentices 2020 Selected Apprentices