Enhancing Website Accessibility for Inclusive User Experience

The main objective of this project is to design and implement a fully accessible user interface for the Advocate Fundraising website using Squarespace. Students will research what accessibility means in the context of web design, explore the needs of users with disabilities, and identify how these needs can be met on a Squarespace site. This includes analyzing Squarespace’s built-in accessibility features, evaluating the platform’s limitations, and researching free third-party tools, add-ons, or widgets that can improve accessibility (e.g., contrast toggles, font scaling, screen reader compatibility). Where needed, students will identify or write simple code snippets to enhance functionality. Deliverables will include a summary of accessibility requirements, analysis of Squarespace’s capabilities, design mockups, implementation of features (using only free tools or solutions), and a final report with guidance for ongoing updates.

Dynamic Content Creation: Enhancing Advocate Fundraising’s Digital Presence

Project Goal: The main objective of this project is to enhance the online presence and engagement of Advocate Fundraising through strategic content creation. This aims to attract more supporters, raise awareness about their initiatives, and ultimately amplify fundraising efforts. Tasks and Activities: 1. Research and Analysis (5%)   - Conduct an analysis of Advocate Fundraising’s current digital presence, including their website and social media channels.   - Research best practices in content creation for nonprofit organizations, focusing on fundraising and advocacy. 2. Content Strategy Development (5%)   - Develop a comprehensive content strategy outlining target audience personas, key messaging, and content distribution channels.   - Identify content themes and topics relevant to Advocate Fundraising’s mission and goals. 3. Content Creation (75%)   - Create various types of content, including:    - Social media posts (graphics and text) designed for engagement and sharing.    - Informational videos or infographics explaining Advocate Fundraising's impact and objectives.    - Revamped website page content to improve clarity, engagement, and effectiveness. 4. Content Calendar Production (10%)   - Develop a content calendar detailing the schedule for content creation and posting, ensuring a consistent flow of materials across all platforms. 5. Feedback and Iteration (5%)   - Present content drafts to Advocate Fundraising for feedback and make necessary revisions based on input received. 6. Collaboration (ongoing)   - Collaborate with other Riipen groups. One group is working on website structure, and another is focusing on social media strategy development.

Researching New Clients for a Fundraising Consultant

The goal of this project is to support Advocate Fundraising’s client acquisition strategy by researching and identifying nonprofit and values-aligned organizations that are a strong fit for our fundraising services. Advocate Fundraising works with small to mid-sized nonprofits across Canada, and we are seeking to expand our client base in a strategic, relationship-based way. Learners will conduct research to locate and assess potential clients, focusing on mission alignment, organization size, funding activity, and leadership accessibility. This project will contribute directly to business growth by equipping us with a clear, actionable list of leads and warm connection strategies.

Streamlined CRM Development: Data Entry and Collection for Enhanced Grant Management

10%: Data/CRM Research Understand Advocate Fundraising Needs: Familiarize yourself with the mission and objectives of Advocate Fundraising to grasp the specific information required for managing client and grantor relationships. Identify key data fields needed for the CRM, including: Organization Contact Person Contact Email Contact Phone Organization Address Funding Interests Eligibility Requirements for Applicants Website Other Notes or Important Information Application Deadline(s) (if applicable) Maximum Funding Ask (Amount) Find a Suitable CRM System: Conduct online research to identify free CRM systems that align with the needs of Advocate Fundraising. Evaluate options, considering features relevant to tracking communications and managing contacts. Create a comparison table summarizing the pros and cons of each CRM option to facilitate informed decision-making. 40%: Data Collection Utilize Existing Lists: Leverage the multiple lists already created by Advocate Fundraising, reviewing them for completeness and relevance. Collect any additional information as needed, ensuring that all relevant fields are populated. Data Gathering Methods: Supplement existing information by collecting data on potential funders and clients through online sources, including organizational websites, LinkedIn profiles, and other credible databases. Use a standardized template (spreadsheet format) to capture all relevant information consistently, including columns for: Organization Contact Person Contact Email Contact Phone Organization Address Funding Interests Eligibility Requirements for Applicants Website Other Notes or Important Information Application Deadline(s) Maximum Funding Ask (Amount) Ensure the integrity of the collected data by following consistent formatting and organization. 50%: Data Entry Enter Data into CRM: After completing the data collection phase, carefully review the standardized template to ensure all information is accurate and comprehensive. Input the collected data into the selected CRM system, ensuring alignment with the predefined data structure. Maintain consistent formatting during data entry (e.g., standardizing phone number formats and accurately entering email addresses). Communication Tracking: Implement a system within the CRM to track past, present, and future communications that Advocate Fundraising has with funders/clients, as well as report application submission details. Documentation and Best Practices: Keep a journal or log to document the data entry process, noting any challenges faced and solutions implemented for reference in future projects. If necessary, create guidelines or best practices to assist future users in managing the CRM system effectively.