A Story That Stays With You

When Raise For Rowyn first approached me, I recognized immediately that this was more than “just another cause.” Their mission—supporting families who’ve lost a child by providing funeral cost assistance, emotional support, a sibling book program, and more—cuts so deeply into the human experience. Raise for Rowyn

I’ll be honest: I remember hearing about Rowyn’s accident back in high school. It shook me at the time—not because I knew her, but because the unfairness of a young life cut short felt too heavy to swallow. As the years passed, Raise For Rowyn’s name and mission lingered in the back of my mind, in part because of how beautifully this community has transformed grief into something that uplifts others.

12 years later, they reached out to me to design and build their website. It felt like coming full circle—an opportunity to give back in a meaningful way while honoring a cause that had already left a mark on my heart.

It’s one thing to design a website for a client; it’s another to be entrusted with a platform that carries stories of loss, of hope, of trust. Raise For Rowyn put faith in me to craft a digital presence that would:

• Let their story breathe—so visitors feel seen, understood, and inspired

• Serve as a clear path for people wanting to support (through donations, volunteering, events)

• Act as a hub for resources for grieving families

• Reveal the sincerity behind every program, fund, and name listed

In short, they saw in me not just a “designer,” but a partner in their mission. That trust shaped my approach from the very beginning.

How I Built Their Online Home

(With a bit of West Coast Creative sunshine sprinkled in)

1. Story-First Structure

I anchored the site around Rowyn’s story—not as a tragic centerpiece, but as a guiding light. We wove in the programs (funeral assistance, sibling books, emotional support) so people immediately understand what Raise For Rowyn does and why it matters.

Every page is built to carry emotional resonance without being overwhelming—clear headings, photos, quotes, white space, and an intuitive user flow for giving, learning, or getting help.

2. Warm, Open Visual Design

Soft neutrals, gentle blues, and playful textures, while still keeping their signature Tiffany Blue at the forefront. The goal was to evoke a sense of calm, embrace, and clarity. Visitors should feel like they’ve walked into a safe, trusted space—not a cold nonprofit hub.

3. Strategic Calls to Action (CTAs)

I placed thoughtful CTAs with gentle, compelling copy and made sure every CTA is nested in context, so someone who’s just exploring still feels invited, not pressured.

4. Mobile-First & Accessibility

Because so many people arrive on mobile, the site is optimized for smaller screens and touch. I also prioritized accessibility—legible fonts, alt text on images, high contrast where needed—so that the site meets people where they are, regardless of ability.

Working with Raise For Rowyn wasn’t just another client engagement—it felt deeply personal. Remembering how I, as a high school kid, heard of Rowyn’s story and was moved by it is part of what motivates me every time I log in to update their site. The fact that they trusted me to build their digital home means more than any portfolio win ever could.

Because this is more than “design.” It’s about giving voice, visibility, trust, and love to a mission that truly matters.