PROJECT BRIEF

Background:
The Stewards is an emerging grant initiative established by members of Sertoma, a national fraternity with a shared commitment to giving back to children in need. The Stewards’ mission is to provide stability and confidence to these children through exceptional philanthropy. Currently, the program raises approximately $25,000 annually, but with an ambitious goal to increase this to $100,000 per year. Their funding is entirely driven by donors, and they are in need of a compelling design strategy to encourage more consistent and higher contributions.

Design Needs:
The Stewards are seeking a cohesive visual identity that includes a primary logo for the club and a series of four membership badges. The badges will signify different donation tiers, which will be creatively named after components of a 1700s-era ship, aligning with their affinity for seafaring aesthetics from that period. The visual style should evoke the spirit of 18th-century maritime graphics, merging history with the group's forward-thinking mission.

Audience:
The Stewards consist of middle-aged to older Caucasian men based in Springfield, Missouri. While their backgrounds vary, they are united by a shared purpose to support children through charitable efforts. Their social interactions often include gatherings where they enjoy whisky together, reflecting a culture of camaraderie and tradition. They envision these designs being engraved on whisky bottles, enamel pins, cuff links, and similar items, symbolizing both their membership and their philanthropic spirit.

Design Direction:
The visual identity should emphasize traits traditionally associated with masculinity—such as strength, stability, confidence, and compassion—while maintaining a sense of timelessness and refinement. These qualities should be subtly reflected in the design elements, reinforcing the sense of purpose and unity within the group. The ship-themed badge system should further highlight the progression of involvement and generosity within The Stewards.

Deliverables: